Charged with White-Collar Crime? Let an Aggressive Criminal Defense Attorney Represent You
White-collar crime charges in Massachusetts can carry serious legal consequences—often including lengthy prison sentences, heavy fines, and damage to your personal and professional reputation. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, our aggressive white-collar crime defense attorneys understand the complexity of these charges and the high stakes involved. With a former prosecutor on our team, we provide the insight and strategy necessary to confront these allegations with precision and determination.
Whether you’re facing charges for Embezzlement, Forgery, Money Laundering, Tax Evasion, or any other white-collar offense, our legal team is ready to guide you every step of the way. We defend clients in Boston, Brighton, West Roxbury, Chelsea, Salem, Lynn, Swampscott, Peabody, Saugus, Cambridge, Somerville, Newton, Brookline, Dedham, or Quincy.
Common White-Collar Crimes We Defend Against
We handle a wide range of white-collar crime cases, from straightforward offenses to complex, multi-jurisdictional investigations. Each charge carries its own legal definition, penalties, and challenges. Below is an overview of the most common charges we defend against across Boston and throughout Massachusetts.
Embezzlement
Embezzlement involves unlawfully taking money or property that was entrusted to you, often in the context of employment or a fiduciary relationship. Under G.L. c. 266, § 30, it is prosecuted similarly to larceny. It typically arises in cases involving bookkeepers, managers, or financial professionals. The crime can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the value of the property. A conviction can result in fines, restitution, probation, or incarceration. We offer aggressive representation from the earliest stages, challenging evidence, exploring defenses such as lack of intent or mistaken belief, and negotiating where possible for reduced charges or resolutions.
Forgery
Forgery means intentionally creating or altering a document with the purpose of deceiving others. According to M G.L. c. 267, § 1, it includes forging checks, contracts, or legal documents. The goal is usually financial gain or to mislead institutions like banks or government agencies. Forgery is a felony in Massachusetts and can lead to serious legal consequences. We work to challenge the authenticity and intent behind the allegations.
Money Laundering
Money laundering involves disguising the origin of illegally obtained money to make it appear legitimate. The offense is governed by M G.L. c. 267A often intersects with drug, fraud, or organized crime investigations. It can involve wire transfers, shell companies, or structuring bank deposits. Law enforcement may spend months or years gathering financial records before filing charges. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson understands how to dissect complex transactions and challenge the prosecution’s assumptions.
Bribery
Bribery is offering or accepting something of value in exchange for influence over a public or legal action. Massachusetts law (M G.L. c. 268A) prohibits bribery in both public and private sectors. Common examples include attempts to sway public officials or secure contracts unfairly. These charges often hinge on the interpretation of vague conversations or exchanges. We analyze context and intent to develop a strong, fact-based defense. We contest whether the exchange actually meets statutory elements and attack any ambiguity in the evidence.
Tax Evasion
Tax evasion is the willful attempt to avoid paying state or federal taxes that are lawfully owed. This may involve underreporting income, inflating deductions, or failing to file returns. The Massachusetts Department of Revenue and the federal IRS often work together in these cases. Convictions may carry civil penalties as well as criminal charges. Our criminal defense attorneys examine audits, look for procedural errors, and explore an innocent explanation or lack of willful intent as a defense. Our goal is to resolve disputes while minimizing or avoiding criminal exposure.
Fraud
Fraud covers a wide range of deceptive practices intended to gain something of value through false representation. It includes insurance fraud, wire fraud, healthcare fraud, and securities fraud. These charges often rely on paper trails and witness testimony. Depending on the scope and amount of loss, fraud can be charged as a felony under several Massachusetts statutes. The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson reviews the full record to identify weak points and inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case.
Counterfeiting
Counterfeiting involves creating fake currency, goods, or documents to pass them off as real. This crime is often charged in federal court, but state charges may also apply depending on the materials involved. It may include fake IDs, credit cards, or legal documents. Convictions can result in years of imprisonment and forfeiture of assets. Our aggressive white-collar crime defense attorneys study how documents were created or handled and challenge authenticity, intent, or knowledge to undermine charges. We challenge the source and intent behind the alleged counterfeiting activity.
Identity Theft
Identity theft occurs when someone uses another person’s identifying information without consent, usually for financial gain. This includes using stolen Social Security numbers, names, or credit card data. Under M G.L. c. 266, § 37E, identity theft is a serious offense in Massachusetts. The law requires proof that the accused knowingly possessed and used the information unlawfully. We defend by questioning whether the information was knowingly used, whether there was consent, and whether key elements are proven. Our defense focuses on disproving intent and distinguishing mistaken identity from criminal behavior.
How Can a White-Collar Defense Attorney Help You?
Whether you’re being investigated or already charged, having a white-collar crime defense attorney on your side early can significantly impact the outcome. At the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson, our legal team carefully reviews every document, transaction, and allegation. We don’t simply wait for the prosecution’s case—we challenge it from day one.
Here’s how we approach white-collar crime cases:
- Case Evaluation and Strategy: We identify weak points in the prosecution’s case and tailor a specific legal strategy.
- Protection During Investigations: We guide clients through grand jury proceedings, subpoenas, and interviews.
- Pre-Trial Motions: We may seek to dismiss or reduce charges before a trial even begins.
- Negotiation and Trial: If a resolution can’t be reached, we prepare to present a strong defense in court.
- Collateral Consequences: We help mitigate professional licensing issues, reputational damage, and civil penalties.
Who Do We Represent in White-Collar Cases?
We assist professionals, business owners, employees, public officials, and individuals who have been accused of complex financial crimes. Whether you’re from the city of Boston, Charlestown, Chelsea, Revere, or nearby towns such as Danvers, Lynn, Salem, Cambridge, Somerville, and Malden, you’ll receive personalized legal counsel backed by years of courtroom experience.
Why Choose the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson?
Our law firm is not just another criminal defense practice—we are results-driven, analytical, and committed to the long-term interests of our clients. The inclusion of a former prosecutor on our legal team means we understand how cases are built from the inside out. That gives our clients an edge in both negotiation and litigation. We don’t make empty promises—we focus on developing realistic strategies that get results.
Take Control of Your Situation—We’re Here to Help
Being accused of a white-collar crime can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Let the Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson help you understand your options and fight for your future. Whether you’re in Boston or surrounding counties like Suffolk, Essex, Middlesex, Plymouth, or Worcester, we’re prepared to stand by your side with a solid legal defense. Reach out today to set up a strategy session with a skilled Massachusetts defense attorney.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I'm under investigation for a white-collar crime?
Do not speak to investigators or law enforcement without legal representation. Contact a Boston white-collar crime defense attorney immediately to avoid jeopardizing your case.
Can white-collar crimes result in jail time?
Yes. Depending on the charge, you could face months to years in state or federal prison, along with fines and restitution orders.
How are white-collar crimes prosecuted in Massachusetts?
They are prosecuted under various statutes depending on the offense. Charges may be brought in state court or referred to federal agencies, depending on the scope of the allegations.
Is intent important in white-collar crime cases?
Absolutely. Many white-collar offenses require proof of intent to defraud or deceive. We frequently base our defence tactics on demonstrating a lack of purpose.
Can a former prosecutor help my defense?
Yes. A former prosecutor understands how the government builds a case and can anticipate their strategies, giving your defense a strategic advantage.