White collar crimes are financially motivated, nonviolent offenses such as fraud, embezzlement, money laundering, forgery and identity theft. In Florida, an organized scheme to defraud is a first degree felony when it involves $50,000 or more, and many cases are also prosecuted federally. Because these cases usually begin with a long investigation, hiring a defense attorney the moment you receive a subpoena or target letter can change the outcome.
Key facts at a glance
| Scheme to defraud, $50,000 or more | First degree felony under § 817.034, Fla. Stat. |
|---|---|
| Scheme to defraud, $20,000 to under $50,000 | Second degree felony |
| Scheme to defraud, under $20,000 | Third degree felony |
| Money laundering | Felony under § 896.101, Fla. Stat., degree based on amount |
| Federal wire or mail fraud | Up to 20 years per count |
| Warning signs | Subpoenas, target letters, search warrants and agent visits |
Embezzlement is usually prosecuted in Florida as theft, with the degree based on the amount taken.
What are the most common white collar charges?
- Organized scheme to defraud and communications fraud
- Embezzlement and employee theft
- Money laundering and structuring
- Forgery, uttering and identity theft
- Mortgage, bank, health care and insurance fraud
- Federal mail fraud, wire fraud and conspiracy
What should I do if I receive a target letter or subpoena?
Do not ignore it and do not call the agent yourself. A target letter means prosecutors believe you may have committed a crime. A subpoena may make you a witness or a subject. Either way, anything you say or produce can be used against you. An attorney can communicate with the government for you, protect privileged material and position you for the best possible outcome, which sometimes means no charges at all.
Charged or under investigation in Broward County? Get a free, confidential consultation.
How are white collar cases defended?
These cases are document heavy and often turn on intent. Good faith reliance on accountants or attorneys, lack of knowledge, flawed loss calculations and investigators misreading business records are common defenses. The amount of loss also drives sentencing, so challenging the State's or government's numbers can dramatically reduce exposure even when some wrongdoing is alleged.
Representing clients charged in Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Pembroke Pines, Miramar, Coral Springs, Pompano Beach, Davie, Plantation and every other Broward County city.
Why choose Daniel Rosenberg?
- Experience. A member of the Florida Bar since 2006, defending clients in Broward County and federal courts.
- Direct access. When you call, you will often speak directly with Daniel himself.
- Local. Office at 802 NE 20th Ave in Fort Lauderdale, minutes from the Broward County Courthouse.
- Every resource. Success is never guaranteed, but every available resource goes into your defense.
Frequently asked questions
Is white collar crime a felony in Florida?
Most are. The degree usually depends on the dollar amount involved.
What is a target letter?
It is a letter from federal prosecutors telling you that you are a target of a grand jury investigation. Contact a defense attorney immediately.
Can I go to prison for fraud even if I pay the money back?
Yes. Repayment can help with negotiation and sentencing but does not erase criminal liability.
Should I talk to federal agents who come to my house?
No. You can politely decline and ask for their contact information. Lying to a federal agent is itself a federal crime.
Can a company and an employee both be charged?
Yes. Prosecutors can charge individuals and businesses, and their interests often conflict, so you need your own attorney.
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Arrests & CourtShould You Talk to Police Without a Lawyer?
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Florida law referenced: § 817.034, § 896.101, Florida Statutes (2025).
Last updated November 8, 2026. This page provides general information about Florida law and is not legal advice. Every case is different. Laws change, so contact an attorney about your specific situation.