White-Collar Crime Attorneys in Los Angeles

Our Team Provides Top-Rated White-Collar Crime Defense

White-collar crime cases are rarely simple. Usually, they are mazes of financial documents, business decisions, electronic records, and more. But our experienced Los Angeles criminal lawyers know how to navigate through these complex mazes. More importantly, we know how to build strong cases and get positive results for people like you. That’s why Los Angeles Magazine chose to include Mark Werksman on a list of the area’s top white-collar criminal defense attorneys.

At Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, we understand how easily white-collar crime charges can arise. We have seen them appear as the result of an honest financial mistake, of poor business agreements, or simply because of false accusations. A successful criminal defense strategy often requires finding a needle in a haystack. We leave no stone unturned in our investigations, which is why we have a strong record of success.

Please call (213) 688-0460 to set up your no-cost initial consultation with a top Los Angeles white-collar crime defense lawyer today.

Why Choose Us Over Other Los Angeles White-Collar Crime Lawyers

At Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, we represent clients across the full spectrum of white-collar criminal allegations. These cases are often complex, involve extensive documentation, and are prosecuted aggressively by government agencies with deep resources like the IRS, FBI, SEC, DOJ, and U.S. Attorney’s Office.

We have the necessary experience and skills to handle complex white-collar cases. Our firm is recognized as a leader in this field because of our unique qualifications:

• Founded by former prosecutors with deep knowledge of how the government builds its case
• Mark Werksman, a former Assistant United States Attorney, has practiced criminal law since 1986
• Alan Jackson, former Assistant Head Deputy for the Major Crimes Division of the LA County District Attorney’s Office
• Kelly Quinn is recognized for high-level appellate advocacy in complex criminal matters
• 12-time Super Lawyers honorees in white-collar criminal defense
• AV-rated by Martindale-Hubbell, the highest rating for ethics and skill
• Proven results in state and federal courtrooms throughout California
• Experience representing CEOs, public officials, attorneys, doctors, and entertainment industry professionals

Our firm provides the strategic insight and courtroom strength needed to protect professionals, executives, and business owners facing high-stakes investigations and prosecutions.

When you retain Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, you’re not just hiring a lawyer—you’re hiring a premier defense team with an unmatched record of protecting clients against the most serious white-collar charges.

Strategic, Confidential, and Relentless Defense

When you’re facing a white-collar criminal investigation or charges in Los Angeles, the stakes are extraordinarily high. Whether it’s allegations of fraud, embezzlement, or a complex financial crime, your freedom, career, and reputation are on the line.

At Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, we provide discreet, sophisticated legal representation for professionals, executives, and high-profile individuals under scrutiny in both state and federal courts.

Our white-collar defense team is composed of some of California’s most experienced and formidable criminal trial lawyers. With decades of courtroom success and a reputation for excellence, we stand ready to defend clients in high-risk, high-profile white-collar matters across Los Angeles.

We understand the sensitive nature of white-collar cases. Our priority is to resolve matters with minimal publicity and maximum protection. We employ a team-based approach that allows us to:

• Intervene early to prevent charges
• Negotiate with investigators before indictments
• Litigate aggressively in court if necessary
• Manage public relations in high-profile matters

Whether you’re being investigated by the FBI, IRS, SEC, or a local district attorney, we will defend you with discretion, sophistication, and strength.

Types of White-Collar Crimes We Handle in Los Angeles

We understand the intricacies of regulatory compliance, financial oversight, and the detailed investigative techniques used by prosecutors in these cases. Our ability to dissect voluminous records, analyze electronic evidence, and challenge prosecutorial assumptions makes us an impressive ally in white-collar litigation.

We serve professionals across industries, including banking, healthcare, entertainment, law, and public service. Our deep experience also allows us to tailor defenses for unique industry standards and regulatory requirements.

Our firm is prepared to respond decisively when the government begins an inquiry or initiates charges against our clients. We defend individuals and businesses under investigation or charged with the following.

Federal and State Fraud Offenses

• Wire Fraud
• Mail Fraud
• Bank Fraud
• Securities Fraud
• Mortgage Fraud
• Insurance Fraud
• Healthcare Fraud (including Medicare fraud and Medicaid billing fraud)

These offenses often fall under federal jurisdiction and can trigger charges from the U.S. Attorney’s Office or investigations by agencies such as the FBI, SEC, or DOJ.

Embezzlement and Employee Theft

Embezzlement and employee theft are among the most sensitive white-collar allegations, often involving long-term, trusted employees or high-level executives.

These cases, which usually arise when someone is accused of misappropriating assets or company funds for personal gain, can stem from internal audits, whistleblower tips, or discrepancies in financial reports.

In many cases, what appears to be intentional theft may actually be a misunderstanding, poor recordkeeping, or unauthorized—but not criminal—use of funds.

Our legal team works quickly to gather facts, challenge the assumptions made by prosecutors, and prevent the narrative from spiraling out of control.

We represent executives, CFOs, accountants, and other professionals accused of:

• Misappropriating company funds
• Diverting assets for personal use
• Skimming profits or manipulating books

Whether the accusation involves misallocation of department budgets, payroll padding, or use of corporate accounts for personal expenses, we aggressively defend clients from the first sign of suspicion through final resolution with the goal of avoiding formal charges when possible, protecting reputations, and resolving these issues discreetly and effectively.

Early intervention in these cases is essential to avoid formal charges and mitigate reputational damage.

Public Corruption and Bribery

Public corruption and bribery cases often make headlines and attract aggressive prosecution by state and federal authorities. These crimes typically involve elected officials, political operatives, public contractors, or business leaders accused of exchanging favors, contracts, or influence for financial gain or other benefits.

Because they impact public trust and government integrity, these cases are prioritized by agencies like the FBI, DOJ, and local district attorney offices.

Being implicated in a public corruption investigation can have devastating effects long before any charges are filed. Media exposure, loss of position, and reputational harm can derail careers and reputations. That’s why early, strategic legal intervention is critical.

Our firm has represented individuals at all levels of public service and industry facing corruption inquiries. We excel at negotiating with prosecutors, preparing robust defenses, and minimizing the impact of these high-profile accusations.

Whether the case involves alleged pay-to-play arrangements, misuse of government funds, or improper campaign finance activities, we have the knowledge and courtroom strength to protect your rights and defend your name.

Our Los Angeles defense attorneys handle investigations involving:

• Bribery of public officials
• Campaign finance violations
• Pay-to-play schemes
• Misuse of public funds

We represent elected officials, government employees, and corporate executives entangled in corruption probes.

Money Laundering

Money laundering allegations can be both complex and damaging, especially when they are tied to other charges such as fraud, drug trafficking, or public corruption.

Prosecutors often use money laundering charges to enhance penalties and apply pressure for plea deals. These cases involve allegations of hiding, transferring, or concealing the origin of funds obtained through illegal activity, and they often rely on financial records, banking transactions, and digital trails as key evidence.

At Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, we defend clients against money laundering allegations with a multi-layered strategy. We collaborate with forensic accountants, financial analysts, and digital forensic experts to challenge the prosecution’s financial narrative.

Many money laundering cases also hinge on proving intent or knowledge—key areas where our defense team excels in raising reasonable doubt. We work to suppress illegally obtained evidence, contest overbroad subpoenas, and dispute the connection between alleged crimes and the funds in question.

Our attorneys also have experience defending clients in cases involving both domestic and international financial transactions, cryptocurrency-related laundering, and multi-agency investigations involving the IRS, DOJ, FinCEN, and more.

Money laundering charges often arise alongside other alleged criminal conduct. We provide strong defenses against:

• Allegations of concealing or disguising proceeds of unlawful activity
• Structuring transactions to avoid detection
• Knowingly facilitating illegal money transfers

Tax Evasion and Tax Fraud

Tax crimes are among the most aggressively pursued white-collar offenses, with both state and federal agencies dedicating substantial resources to investigate and prosecute them.

Allegations of tax evasion or fraud can stem from audits, whistleblower tips, or discrepancies identified through government data-sharing programs.

These cases often involve complex financial records and are prosecuted with the goal of making examples out of defendants to deter future misconduct.

Whether you are a high-net-worth individual, a small business owner, or an international investor, a tax crime investigation can place your livelihood and freedom in serious jeopardy.

The penalties for a conviction include steep financial penalties, asset forfeiture, and potentially years of incarceration. Moreover, the stigma of being labeled a tax cheat can do lasting damage to your professional and personal reputation.

Our attorneys have successfully defended clients in investigations led by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Criminal Investigation Division and the California Franchise Tax Board (FTB).

We meticulously evaluate tax filings, communications, and financial history to challenge the government’s narrative and assert legal defenses that can lead to dismissal or substantial charge reductions.

We assist clients under investigation by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or California Franchise Tax Board (FTB) for:

• Underreporting income
• Filing false tax returns
• Offshore account violations
• Failure to file or pay required taxes

Our firm coordinates with forensic accountants and tax experts to challenge government allegations.

Identity Theft and Cyber Crimes

As technology continues to evolve, so does the scope of white-collar criminal liability. Allegations of identity theft and cybercrimes have become increasingly common in both state and federal investigations, particularly as law enforcement agencies deploy sophisticated digital forensics tools.

These offenses can arise from a wide range of activities, including unauthorized access to systems, misuse of data, or the exploitation of digital platforms for financial gain.

The penalties for cyber-related offenses can be severe, especially when they involve large-scale data breaches, access to medical or financial records, or schemes to defraud individuals or businesses.

Identity theft charges may be based on the use or possession of someone else’s personal identifying information (PII), including Social Security numbers, bank account information, or online credentials, often with intent to obtain a benefit.

Our firm takes a comprehensive approach to defending clients against these allegations. We engage with leading cybersecurity experts to analyze digital trails, challenge the attribution of conduct to specific individuals, and scrutinize the legality of electronic surveillance or search warrants.

In many cases, these charges rely heavily on circumstantial or technical evidence that can be successfully challenged with the right strategy.

With the rise of digital investigations, more professionals are being accused of:

• Phishing or hacking-related offenses
• Unauthorized access to sensitive data
• Credit card or Social Security fraud
• Business email compromise schemes (BEC)
• Online impersonation or fraud involving cryptocurrency

Our defense attorneys understand both the technological and legal dimensions of cybercrime cases and provide aggressive representation to protect your reputation, career, and future.

Corporate Investigations and Internal Audits

Corporate investigations and internal audits are often the earliest indicators of potential white-collar issues within a company. These matters may stem from whistleblower reports, compliance concerns, accounting irregularities, or external pressure from government regulators. How a company or executive responds in these initial stages can significantly influence the likelihood and severity of legal exposure.

Our firm advises both corporations and individuals at every stage of internal investigations. Whether the inquiry is initiated by a board of directors, outside counsel, or a government-mandated monitor, we ensure our clients understand their rights, obligations, and the best path forward. We help formulate strategic responses, assess the risks of self-reporting versus remaining silent, and prepare for possible enforcement actions.

Additionally, we assist with crisis management, media coordination, and preparation for regulatory interviews or depositions. For high-level executives, we also offer independent representation to avoid conflicts of interest with company counsel.

When internal audits uncover signs of criminal activity, our goal is to contain the situation, protect individual rights, and prevent escalation into criminal prosecution.

Facing a fraud investigation or indictment can be one of the most intimidating experiences for any professional. These cases are often prosecuted by specialized units and involve complex documentation, forensic accounting, and government investigations.

Fraud allegations often trigger immediate regulatory scrutiny, damage to your career, and, in some cases, asset freezes or injunctions. These charges carry significant penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, fines, and restitution orders.

Because fraud often involves thousands of documents, financial records, or digital evidence, it’s essential to have a legal team that understands both the legal and financial dimensions of the case.

We advise companies and executives on the following:

• Compliance with subpoenas and search warrants
• Responding to whistleblower complaints
• Self-disclosure and cooperation strategies
• Avoiding or defending against False Claims Act (qui tam) suits

We also offer strategic advice to help clients navigate investigations before they escalate to formal charges. Whether you are under internal investigation, responding to a subpoena, or facing trial, we provide comprehensive representation every step of the way.

What Is a White-Collar Crime?

In general, the term "white-collar crime" is used to refer to non-violent offenses associated with "white-collar" workers, especially those working in finance.

White-collar crime is typically thought of as an offense involving monetary losses. This may involve a business, someone’s personal finances, or even local, state, and federal agencies.

While they are often misunderstood as less serious because they do not involve violence, white-collar crimes are rigorously pursued by both state and federal agencies and can result in decades-long prison sentences, massive fines, and irreversible reputational harm.

Although white-collar crimes can take many different forms, some common ones include:

• Bank Fraud: This refers to any act or pattern of action that is intended to defraud a bank of funds. Using a stolen identity to make or access an account, creating a fake business, and trying to pass stolen checks can all be forms of bank fraud.
• Embezzlement: Embezzlement occurs when someone is entrusted with company property or money and uses it for his or her own benefit. It can include actions like taking invested money or using company property.
• Credit Card Fraud: This is the unauthorized use of credit cards to gain property or other goods. It can also include the use of stolen information to establish a credit line in someone else's name without their permission.
• Computer Fraud: Computers can be used to defraud others out of money or other property, often by stealing information from individuals or businesses. Hacking and other cybercrimes are often prosecuted at the federal level.
• Blackmail: Blackmail is a white-collar crime if it is performed by someone in a place of power within a company who uses threats of bodily harm or reputation damage to demand money or other items of value from someone else. Blackmail often involves a threat of revealing damaging secrets about someone.
• Investment Schemes: These are situations in which a person is promised a return on an investment, which is typically never made while the invested money is kept by the perpetrator. Ponzi schemes are among these well-known white-collar crimes.

A few more examples of white-collar crime include wire fraud, tax fraud and tax evasion, Medicaid and Medicare fraud, and insurance fraud.

The dollar amounts in these kinds of cases can be substantial, which is why white-collar crimes have made headlines in recent years and are being prosecuted more aggressively than ever before.

Common Factors in White-Collar Crimes

While each charge will need its own specific strategy to prevent a conviction, there are common factors in these types of cases.

• Intent: Legally speaking, “intent” means that a defendant did not have to commit the crime, only desire to commit the crime and take steps to commit it. To convict a defendant of bank fraud, for example, the prosecution must show that the defendant intended to defraud a bank of money, assets, or property. Mistakenly taking funds from a bank due to a filing error is not a crime, as it lacked intent on the defendant’s part.
• Capabilities: Intent is not enough for a court to convict a defendant for a white-collar crime. In addition to intending to commit the crime, the defendant must have been capable of committing the crime.
• Fraud: Fraud refers to the act of using deceit, trickery, or lies to falsely represent or conceal certain facts. This can be done to acquire someone else’s property or to damage another person’s finances. Fraud plays a role in most white-collar crimes, especially those involving contracts, legal agreements, and the sharing of financial information.

Case Results

Corruption Allegation – Not Guilty

Mark Werksman represented a longtime Los Angeles lobbyist and a former Los Angeles City Council aide, along with his wife, who were accused of corruption in an alleged scheme to help an elected official siphon thousands of dollars in public money for personal use. After a difficult trial and more than two days of deliberation, jurors found Mark’s client not guilty on all counts.

Laundering Drug Money – Probation, No Jail Time

Mark Werksman’s client was a Wilmington man accused in New York federal court of laundering drug money through the sale of laptop computers. Mark was able to get the case transferred to federal court in Los Angeles, where he convinced the United States Attorney to reduce the charges to a misdemeanor. His client was sentenced to probation with no jail time.

Securities Fraud – Prosecution Declined

Mark Werksman represented a Los Angeles securities trader and hedge fund manager facing federal prosecution for securities fraud. If indicted, he would have been stripped of his securities licenses, and if convicted, he would have done five years in a federal prison. Mark convinced the United States Attorney's office to decline prosecution.

Client Testimonials

“Phenomenal Attorney” - Jenna Jepson (5-Star Google Review)

Alan Jackson is a phenomenal attorney! He is so quick on his feet, detail-oriented, and will zealously represent his clients.

“Will Fight for You All the Way” - Anonymous (5-Star Avvo Review)

Best attorney to help with my case! He will fight for you all the way. I trusted him with my case and his team to assist me. Will go above and beyond to win and defend you. Highly recommend!!!

“Incredibly Skilled and Seasoned Attorney” - Alex B. (5-Star Avvo Review)

Fantastic defense attorney. Alan Jackson is an incredibly skilled and seasoned attorney. He has passion for his clients and the law, and you would be a fool not to hire him.

Defense Strategies in White-Collar Cases

To beat a Los Angeles white-collar charge, you need to work with a team that has an in-depth understanding of how investigators collect evidence and how prosecutors litigate these cases. At Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, many of our lawyers have served in district attorney’s offices and know firsthand how these charges are evaluated. After speaking to you in a free consultation, we can begin preparing a defense strategy, which may include:

• You had no intention of committing a crime, and it only occurred due to an error.
• You were not aware that you provided false information.
• The victim did not suffer an injury or loss due to fraud.
• Another individual committed the crime.
• The prosecution lacks sufficient evidence to convict you.
• Evidence against you was obtained illegally.

FAQs About White-Collar Crimes

Are All White-Collar Crimes Prosecuted at the Federal Level?

It is often assumed (incorrectly) that white-collar crimes are prosecuted only in federal court. But in reality, it is not uncommon for state prosecutors to go after those accused of white-collar crimes.

The reasons why some white-collar offenses are prosecuted in state court while others are prosecuted in federal court are complicated. Many white-collar crimes are incredibly complex and require extensive resources to prosecute and bring to trial, but not all state agencies can afford to bring these matters to court. As an example, a particular case may require many investigative hours and a prosecutor with a certain level of expertise who is not available at the local district attorney’s office.

If the case involves a large enough monetary loss, federal authorities often become involved in the investigation and prosecute the case in federal court - assuming that a federal law has been broken. Because of the broad reach of federal laws, many white-collar cases can be brought in either federal court or state court. Some offenses are traditionally prosecuted in federal court, even though they may also involve violations of state law. These offenses include bank fraud, securities and commodities fraud, fraud cases involving federal funds, federal income tax offenses, procurement fraud involving federal contractors, bribery involving federal officials, and more.

Who Investigates White-Collar Crimes?

Several government law enforcement agencies investigate white-collar offenses. Sometimes, more than one agency will be involved if the crime lies within the scope of a particular agency’s expertise. Generally, the FBI investigates bank and mortgage fraud, and other general frauds. The IRS investigates tax-related matters but also frequently teams up with other agencies, such as the FBI, in fraud investigations. The IRS has primary responsibility for investigating money-laundering offenses, which are often charged along with fraud offenses. The Department of Defense investigates defense procurement fraud cases. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service investigates types of fraud involving mail. Immigration and Customs Enforcement may be involved in cases relating to imported counterfeit goods.

What Kind of Penalties Can Be Imposed for White-Collar Crimes?

As for financial penalties imposed with a conviction, there are several possibilities:

• Fines – A penalty with a maximum set by statute. In practice, courts will rarely impose the maximum fine.
• Restitution – A penalty that is intended to "make the victim whole." Restitution is calculated according to the victim’s loss and is often mandatory.
• Forfeiture – A penalty that is intended to prevent the defendant from "self-enrichment." Forfeiture includes any financial gains by the defendant as a result of the crime, as well as any significant assets that were used in the course of committing the crime.

Do I Really Need a Los Angeles White-Collar Crime Lawyer?

You’re a professional. Being charged with a white-collar crime does not simply mean you are threatened with jail time or fines. If convicted, your career and reputation could be ruined.

Our firm knows how serious allegations of white-collar crime can be; we will investigate every detail of your case, frequently enlisting skilled investigators, such as ex-IRS agents, FBI agents, ex-postal investigators, and former Los Angeles prosecutors, to assist us. With state-of-the-art technology, we are able to scan and analyze thousands of pages of business and bank records in an amazingly short period of time.

Managing Partner Mark Werksman has been named by Super Lawyers® as one of the top-rated white-collar crime attorneys in Los Angeles since 2005. Contact one of our lawyers at Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP for any of your white-collar defense needs at (213) 688-0460 today.

Contact a Premier White-Collar Crime Attorney in Los Angeles

If you’re facing allegations of fraud, embezzlement, or any white-collar offense in Los Angeles, you need a defense team with the knowledge, courtroom skills, and strategic insight to protect your freedom and reputation.

Call Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP at (213) 688-0460 for a confidential consultation. We are ready to stand with you and fight to protect everything you’ve worked for.

Whether you’re a corporate executive, a licensed professional, or a public official under scrutiny, trust the attorneys who have successfully defended California’s most serious and complex white-collar cases. Let us be your advocates in this critical time.

Additional Information

• Defending Against White-Collar Crime Charges in Federal Court
• Digital Evidence in White-Collar Crime Cases: How Prosecutors Use Your Data
• Protecting Your Reputation During White-Collar Crime Allegations
• The Role of Forensic Accounting in White-Collar Crimes
• Defending Against Telemarketing Fraud Charges