Inconsistencies in tax reporting could result in extended periods of investigation from the Internal Revenue Service, and worse, actual charges for tax evasion. Despite the severity of these charges, incidents such as these are rarely black and white. Lack...
Firm News
Understanding a RICO criminal charge
If you are a California resident facing criminal charges for a RICO violation, you probably are wondering exactly what RICO is and what the government must prove in order to convict you. RICO is the acronym for the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act...
Creating computer viruses could lead to state and federal charges
Because computer viruses can affect commerce, private medical and financial information and even national security, California legislators and the federal government treat these threats very seriously. A person who creates a virus may face severe penalties from the...
California state law bans phishing
Internet crime laws have not kept up with the technological advances. However, according to the Infosec Institute, California led the way in 2005 by being the first state to pass an anti-phishing law. Now, 22 other states and Guam have similar laws, although as yet,...
Are you banned from owning a gun?
You may believe that the Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, the right to bear arms, ensures your ability to buy and carry a gun. However, there are a number of caveats imposed by both state and federal law. According to the California Department of Justice's...
When white collar crime targets the elderly
Although state and federal governments alike take a hardline stance against white collar crimes, schemes targeting the elderly are particularly frowned upon. In fact, the National Center for State Courts encourages prosecutors to be creative when evaluating a case...
The effects of an embezzlement charge
Like penalties for most crimes, a financial crime can stunt a person's ability to find new employment, maintain professional relationships and thrive as an individual. California's financial crime laws can be especially unforgiving, as they can cost a person thousands...
Some virtual currency systems may be Ponzi schemes
Cryptocurrency use is legal in California and the United States, but although it is making waves throughout the country, many do not understand the pitfalls of this digital or virtual form of payment. NerdWallet.com explains that virtual currencies are often...
Unauthorized access to private computer services could be a crime
Although there are many federal laws regarding internet and computer crimes, California also has laws that address these types of activities. However, FindLaw explains that state conviction of a person who has allegedly violated the computer crime laws depends on the...
Failure to pay payroll taxes can be a costly mistake
When business owners in California fail to remit payroll taxes to the IRS, the result is often national media attention in addition to prison sentencing and steep financial penalties. For example, U.S. News recently named a retail company owner who has received a tax...




