White-collar crime takes on a different nature than most other offenses. Typically, the most frowned upon offenses involve some form of physical harm, which white-collar offenses do not.
Nonethelesswhite collar crimes still have a serious impact on victims, thus, the consequences for those who have been convicted can be life-challenging. As white-collar offenses typically involve financial transactions that center around some form of deception, the reputation of a business owner facing such charges could be tarnished. For the following reasons, it is vital that business owners defend themselves when facing white-collar charges.
Protecting your business reputation
It has likely taken many years to establish your brand and a reputation that sees customers both arriving for the first time and returning. You may try your best to keep legal proceedings under wraps, but these things have a habit of getting out there. The last thing you want is for your business to be associated with financial malfeasance, and building a solid defense can ensure that doesn’t happen. Though it can be difficult to stop the rumor mill once charges have been filed, a just verdict can shut down unwarranted criticism and restore the honor of your company.
The practical implications
Going through a criminal trial can be costly in itself, not to mention the penalties that come if guilt is established. All of this can have a real impact on your bottom line. By building the best possible defense, you have a chance to limit the financial costs and conclude the case in a fair and efficient manner.
You have a presumption of innocence and both your personal and business reputation should not be damaged unfairly. Having a firm understanding of your legal rights in South Carolina will help you to obtain the best possible outcome.
