Any Michigan resident facing federal-level criminal charges has every right to ask questions about what to expect as they move through criminal proceedings. Knowledge is power, after all. The more a person knows about the charges and what may come, the better position...
White-Collar Crimes
White-Collar Crimes
What is (and what isn’t) corporate espionage
When we talk about corporate espionage, we typically refer to the theft of trade. That theft, and the financial damages it inflicts, can be extremely far-reaching. Theft of trade secrets defined Virtually any confidential information that a company uses to develop or...
Consequences for breaking antitrust laws
There have been three core antitrust laws on the books for some time. Each of these is in place to keep prices fair, protect companies and consumers, and offer incentives for businesses -- among various other things. Business owners in Michigan and elsewhere who break...
What is mail fraud?
Any form of fraud is a serious criminal offense that can land a person in prison for a long time if the accused individual is convicted -- among various other significant penalties. Mail fraud is believed to be one of the most common forms of fraud for which people in...
When is racketeering a federal crime?
Racketeering is a crime that comes in many forms and may be considered a state or federal offense -- sometimes both. It is a crime that involves operating an illegal business or taking funds from a legal company for one to engage in criminal activities. What are the...
What to expect if suspected of committing a federal crime
The unknown is what makes the criminal justice process at the federal level something people fear. If a person knows what to expect and how the process works, it can be easier for the individual to navigate. For this reason, this column will briefly address what...
Defending yourself against computer hacking charges
Because of advances in technology and widespread access to computers and the internet, computer-based crime is more common than ever. Hacking is a type of cybercrime that involves illegally accessing certain types of information and doing other things that may affect...
Accused of patient brokering?
There is nothing wrong with wanting to get people the medical care they need. There is nothing illegal about assisting someone in finding health care providers or treatment facilities that will best serve their needs. There is something wrong, however, with accepting...
Detroit woman stealing packages, is this a federal offense?
Police in Detroit are looking for the woman reportedly stealing packages from porches shortly after they are being delivered. What may seem like a simple case of theft, which is typically handled at the state level, may also be considered a federal offense. It all...
Tax evasion requires intent to defraud
The federal government takes the payment of taxes very seriously. Michigan residents who do not pay what they truly owe on time may end up being accused and possibly charged with tax evasion. This is a severe offense with significant consequences if one is ultimately...