Real estate fraud can cost individuals or financial companies hundreds of thousands of dollars. Fraudulent real estate transactions can lead to an improper transfer of mortgage funds or somebody emptying their savings account, only to not acquire an ownership interest...
White Collar Crimes
Fraudulently obtained goods: An additional offense on top of card fraud
In South Carolina, it’s a crime to use another person's financial transaction card to obtain money, goods, or services. Regardless of the type of card used to make the fraudulent transaction – whether it’s a credit or debit card – the offense is a misdemeanor that...
Understanding the crime and consequences of money laundering
Although it’s not the most violent of crimes, money laundering is still one of the most serious offenses to commit in South Carolina and other U.S. states. This blog will explain what money laundering is and South Carolina’s legal stance on the offense. It will also...
Altering and falsifying diplomas and academic transcripts is a crime
While it’s true that school can’t give you all the lessons you need to learn to start living like an adult, your academic performance and background can still influence certain aspects of your life. Maybe you’re applying for a graduate program or your first job – the...
Why you need to be honest when looking for investors
Investing always comes with some risk. That is the counterbalance to the benefits investing can provide if things go well. Yet, as someone looking for investment from others, you have a duty to help potential investors understand that risk. You are the person with the...
Computer crimes: When theft and mischief go digital
There’s no denying that computers and the internet have revolutionized how people live and work. Thanks to the two, many companies stayed in business even during the COVID-19 pandemic as business continued online. But as more people rely on computers and the internet,...
What is embezzlement in South Carolina?
Embezzlement occurs when a person in a position of trust uses that position for personal gain or other wrongful reasons. What differentiates it from theft is that the owner of the funds trusts the person with their financial assets or property. It involves betrayal....
Can you get in trouble for using a relative’s credit card?
For all the debt-related risks they carry, credit cards remain one of the most convenient ways to purchase things. They allow buyers to purchase even the most expensive goods almost instantly, and some cards even have rewards and perks for constant use. You might’ve...
The common medical billing mistake that can lead to fraud charges
Medical billing is a complicated and often stressful profession. Individuals who work in a medical billing center may have to decipher illegible handwriting or impossibly complicated shorthand entered into a digital system. Their role is a crucial one, as it helps...
Potential defenses to money laundering?
Being charged with money laundering can be challenging because prosecutors use it to seek high penalties. The U.S. Department of Treasury defines money laundering as financial transactions that criminals use to disguise the proceeds, sources and nature of their...