Many times, when people are accused of financial crimes, such as embezzlement or investment fraud, they are referred to as white collar crimes. This is a term that has been used since 1939, when it was coined by a sociologist named Edwin Sutherland.
But the opposite is not generally true; other criminal activities are not referred to as “blue collar” crimes, for instance. So why is it that the term white collar crimes is used?
Government officials and business professionals
The term generally just refers to the type of people who are accused of these financial crimes. They tend to be government officials, business owners, corporate executives and others in upper economic classes.
Additionally, white collar crimes are typically not emotional crimes or those designed to cause physical harm. Instead, they are criminal activities that are carefully planned and carried out for financial gain.
For instance, embezzlement is one common type of white collar crime. By its very nature, this is something that can only be carried out by someone who has already been granted access to a business’s financial accounts or funds, such as a chief financial officer. The level of access that they have been given as an executive makes it possible for them to misappropriate those funds for their own personal gain. This is a type of theft, but it is much different than someone who robs a convenience store.
Your defense options
If you have been accused of financial crimes or other white collar crimes, the ramifications can be severe, both in your personal and professional life. You must understand exactly what legal defense options you have when facing these charges.