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By Jason Ronis, Criminal Defense Attorney · CA Bar #229628Updated November 2026
White collar crimes are money and business crimes such as fraud, embezzlement, tax, and health care crimes. Federal wire fraud carries up to 20 years. Many cases start with a subpoena or a visit from agents before any charge. Acting early can change the outcome. Jason Ronis Law defends white collar cases in San Diego with 20+ years in local courts. Call or text (619) 859-2002, free, day or night.
What Are White Collar Crimes in San Diego? A Plain-English Explanation
White collar crimes are non-violent crimes about money, usually involving lies or breach of trust. They include fraud, embezzlement, identity theft, tax crimes, health care fraud, and relief-loan fraud. They are often investigated for months, and you may not know until agents arrive or a subpoena comes.
White Collar Charges We Defend in San Diego: Federal and California
| Charge | Law | Top penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Wire fraud / mail fraud | 18 USC 1343, 1341 | Up to 20 years |
| Bank fraud | 18 USC 1344 | Up to 30 years |
| Health care fraud | 18 USC 1347 | Up to 10 years |
| Aggravated identity theft | 18 USC 1028A | 2 extra years, mandatory |
| Tax evasion | 26 USC 7201 | Up to 5 years |
| Securities or insider trading | Federal securities laws | Up to 20 years |
| Grand theft / embezzlement | PC 487, 503 | County jail or prison |
Fines, restitution, and forfeiture can apply. The loss amount often drives the sentence.
Under Investigation for Fraud? Call Before You Talk.
A real attorney. Free. Day or night.
Subpoenas, Target Letters, and Raids: What to Do Before You Are Charged
A grand jury subpoena asks for records or testimony. A target letter says you are a focus. Agents from the FBI, IRS, HHS, or Postal Inspectors may also show up unannounced. Do not respond alone. Early contact can sometimes persuade prosecutors not to charge, or to charge less.
Do Not Destroy Records: How Obstruction Can Turn a Fraud Case Into a Worse One
Deleting emails, shredding files, or wiping a phone can be charged as obstruction (18 USC 1519), with up to 20 years. It can be worse than the original case. Keep everything and call us.
How We Defend White Collar Crime Charges in San Diego
- No intent to defraud. A honest mistake or good faith is a defense.
- No scheme or no false statement.
- Loss amount. We challenge the number that drives the sentence.
- Illegal searches and privilege problems.
- Time limits. We check whether charges were filed too late.
- Cooperating witnesses. We test their credibility.
- Pre-charge advocacy, restitution, and settlements.
Money Laundering, Forfeiture, and Professional Licenses
Fraud cases often add money laundering counts and forfeiture of accounts and property. They can also hurt professional licenses. See money laundering defense, 18 USC 1957, and asset forfeiture.
What Happens in a Federal White Collar Case in San Diego
- Investigation, subpoenas, or search warrants.
- Charges by complaint or indictment.
- First court date and release hearing.
- Motions, plea talks, or trial.
- Sentencing under federal guidelines.
Federal cases are heard in the Southern District of California, at 333 W. Broadway. San Diego state cases are heard at the Central Courthouse (330 W. Broadway), the South Bay Justice Center (500 Third Avenue, Chula Vista), and the Vista Courthouse (325 S. Melrose Drive).
What to Do If Agents Contact You or You Receive a Subpoena or Target Letter
Why Choose Jason Ronis Law for White Collar Defense in San Diego
- 20+ years in San Diego courts.
- You talk to a real attorney, free, day or night.
- English and Spanish.
- Federal-court practice and early-stage strategy.
Related: violent crimes, record expungement, and Jason Ronis. No lawyer can promise a result.
What Clients Say
Real Google reviews from people who called us when they were scared and unsure.
“He communicated clearly, guided me through every step, and fought hard to get me the best possible outcome. I felt supported, informed, and never judged.”
Leah A.Google review“He is the lawyer you want on your side — relentless, strategic, and genuinely invested in achieving the best results.”
Ethan C.Google review“Jason and his team followed up extremely well during my whole process. He is very communicative and explored anything that I brought up.”
Jenny G.Google reviewReviews are from past clients. Every case is different. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
More Quick Answers
Short answers to other things people ask us.
What are white collar crimes?
Non-violent money crimes such as fraud, embezzlement, and tax crimes. Call (619) 859-2002 for a free consultation.
What is the penalty for wire fraud?
Up to 20 years in federal prison, plus fines, restitution, and forfeiture.
What should I do if I get a subpoena or target letter?
Do not respond alone. Call a lawyer first.
Can I be charged if I did not mean to cheat anyone?
The government must prove intent to defraud. An honest mistake can be a defense.
Can agents search my business or home?
With a warrant, yes. We check whether the warrant was valid.
Is deleting files a crime?
It can be charged as obstruction. Keep everything.
Can charges be avoided if I call early?
Sometimes. Early contact can lead to no charge or a lesser charge.
Can I lose my professional license?
A charge or conviction can affect it. Ask us.
Do you speak Spanish?
Sí. Se habla español. Call or text (619) 859-2002.
Federal Cases Move Fast. Call Today.
One free call can show you where you stand and what to do next. A real attorney will answer your questions. No cost. No pressure.
Jason Ronis Law | San Diego Criminal & DUI Attorney
105 F St THIRD FLOOR, San Diego, CA 92101
We stand by your side in State and Federal courts, delivering proven results and round-the-clock emergency legal assistance.
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