White collar crime was once considered less serious than “street crime”. In the wake of massive financial scandals, white collar criminal prosecutions now fill media reports with staggering sentences that include long periods in state prison. White collar criminal investigations and prosecutions threaten companies and their employees with consequences different in kind and in degree from a civil lawsuit for damages. Like an adverse verdict in civil court, a criminal conviction for a white collar crime can mean massive fines. However, an adverse judgment in a white collar criminal case can also mean a long prison sentence and permanent damage to an individual or business entity’s reputation.

If you are charged with a white collar crime, the case will typically be tried in federal court, which has special rules, and procedures that differ significantly from those in Pennsylvania state criminal courts. You will also face federal prosecutors who are typically more skilled, have more extensive resources and a lighter caseload than their counterparts in state court. Fraud, embezzlement, money laundering, and false identification are just a few of the white collar crimes that attract the attention of federal agencies like the FBI and the IRS. Successful criminal defense of a person accused of a white collar crime entails not only knowledge of criminal law and procedure, but extensive experience with the offices and agencies that enforce white collar criminal offenses.

The investigation process and strategies of federal prosecutors and federal law enforcement agencies are much more effective and invasive including grand jury subpoenas, search warrants, undercover informants, unannounced visits from law enforcement agents and even wiretaps. A federal prosecutor’s charging decisions are rarely inevitable. A person or entity accused of a white collar crime in Pennsylvania can benefit by having an experienced white collar criminal defense law firm with a proven reputation for successful defense against white collar criminal charges early in an investigation which may reduce the risk of charges being filed. We recognize that reputation management is an important part of the process in defending white collar criminal charges.

Our experience and credibility with federal prosecutors often means that we can reduce the damage and disruption of a federal investigation and protect our clients from formal criminal charges. Even if formal charges are filed, we have the experience to advise you regarding the costs and benefits of proceeding to trial or accepting a negotiated plea. We will work aggressively to have your charges dismissed or reduced based on your best interest. We always prepare a strong defense for trial because this is the best way to persuade a federal prosecutor to accept a more favorable plea agreement.

With a focus on thorough preparation, superior client service and dedicated representation, I help families and individuals solve a wide range of DUI and criminal litigation issues.

I will respond to your email submission as promptly as possible. I ask that you consider calling me, Pittsburgh white collar criminal defense attorney Michael V. Worgul, directly at 1-412-475-9217 or toll free at 1-855-DUI-CRIM for a free initial consultation to discuss your case.  You will also find out how our practice can be put to work for you.

I look forward to listening to the circumstances of your case and discussing all available options under the law.

Sincerely,

Michael V. Worgul

Michael V. Worgul, Esq., LLC
429 Forbes Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Toll Free: 1-855-DUI-CRIM
Phone: 412-475-9217
Fax: 412-288-8943