Financial Crimes
We provide strong and compassionate defense for clients facing financial crime allegations like larceny, fraud, embezzlement, identity theft, and more. We have successfully defended clients against financial charges for nearly 30 years.
Get Help TodayFinancial Crimes Defense Attorney Massachusetts
Financial crime charges in Massachusetts range from misdemeanor check fraud to felony embezzlement, money laundering, and healthcare fraud carrying years in state prison. For over 30 years we have successfully defended individuals facing financial and white collar charges throughout Essex County and Eastern Massachusetts.
We have successfully defended clients against financial charges for over 30 years.
Financial Crime Charges Can Destroy Your Career And Future
Being accused of a financial crime like larceny, fraud, or embezzlement can lead to serious penalties including years in prison. These charges also carry the stigma of being untrustworthy, which can destroy reputations and careers. Defending against financial crime allegations is complex, requiring an attorney with specific skills and experience. Skills and experience we have developed over nearly 30 years in the courtroom.
Financial or “white collar crime” refers to any nonviolent crime that is committed by corporate or government officials or an individual to achieve unlawful commercial gains. It is frightening how often people find themselves in trouble just by a simple mistake, being unaware of the applicable laws or simply being a convenient “fall guy.’ The mistaken belief that such nonviolent crimes, involving business issues, need not be taken seriously has led many people to prison.
Because the law allows prosecutors to rely upon presumptions to prove a person’s intent, these cases can arise in circumstances of innocent, but mistaken, conduct that is misinterpreted by law enforcement investigators. Anyone targeted in such an investigation needs to be represented at the earliest possible moment so that rights and defenses may be preserved and any possibility of ending the investigation without criminal prosecution can be pursued. If you have been charged or are being investigated or questioned regarding such a crime, you need a lawyer. We have nearly three decades of experience in the courtroom, successfully defending good people in their toughest times.
Defense Based on Understanding & Compassion
We have a comprehensive approach to legal defense that addresses both the immediate legal needs and the broader context surrounding a case. We understand that innocent people get accused. We also understand that sometimes there are factors that the police and prosecutors don't pay attention to that may explain what happened, and why. Our team draws on experience with trauma, addiction, and mental health to uncover critical factors that often underlie financial crimes. This enables us to humanize clients, mount the strongest possible defense, and help clients make lasting and positive changes in their lives.
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Over 30 Years Defending Financial and White Collar Charges in Massachusetts Courts
Call (978) 705-4537 for a free consultation available 24/7.
Understanding Your Situation
Call (978) 705-4537 for a free consultation.
Understanding Financial and White Collar Charges in Massachusetts
Massachusetts prosecutes financial and white collar offenses across several categories. Consequences and potential sentences vary significantly depending on the specific charge, the value involved, and whether federal authorities are pursuing charges alongside state prosecutors.
Fraud
Embezzlement
Forgery and Uttering
Money Laundering
Larceny by False Pretenses
Identity Fraud
Potential Consequences Under Massachusetts Financial Crime Charges
On the criminal side, felony convictions for grand larceny, fraud, money laundering, and related offenses carry state prison sentences, substantial fines, and restitution orders. Federal charges, where applicable, carry significantly harsher sentencing guidelines and are prosecuted aggressively.
Beyond incarceration, a conviction involving dishonesty can result in loss of professional licenses in law, medicine, finance, and other regulated fields. Employment background checks, security clearances, and immigration status are all affected. Reputational consequences in professional communities are often immediate and severe.
Outcomes in financial crime cases vary significantly depending on the specific facts, the value alleged, the strength of the evidence, and the defense strategy. These cases are highly fact-specific — and that specificity creates real opportunities for a meaningful defense.
Defending Against Financial Crime Charges in Massachusetts
Lack of Criminal Intent. Every financial crime requires proof that you acted intentionally to defraud or deceive. Mistake, misunderstanding, good-faith reliance on advice, and genuine belief in your authorization are defenses — not just mitigating factors.
Authorization and Good Faith. Many embezzlement and fraud charges arise where the defendant believed they had authorization. Documenting that belief — through emails, instructions, standard practices, and the conduct of others in similar roles — is often the heart of the defense.
Challenging Valuation. The value of property allegedly taken or defrauded determines whether a charge is a misdemeanor or felony, and the sentencing range if convicted. Valuation is frequently contested, and winning that contest can change the entire trajectory of the case.
Constitutional Challenges. Financial crime investigations frequently involve subpoenas, search warrants, and electronic surveillance. Evidence obtained in violation of constitutional protections can be suppressed, sometimes eliminating the prosecution’s case entirely.
Cooperation and Negotiated Resolution. In appropriate cases, early engagement with prosecutors — handled carefully and strategically — can result in reduced charges, deferred prosecution, or resolution without conviction. This option requires experienced judgment about when and how to approach it.
Every financial crime case is different. Call (978) 705-4537 to discuss your specific situation and what options may be available.
If You’ve Just Been Charged with a Financial Crime
● Don’t talk to investigators or prosecutors without a lawyer present — this is especially important in financial cases where seemingly innocent explanations can be reframed as admissions
● Don’t destroy, alter, or move documents — preservation obligations may already exist, and spoliation creates serious additional exposure
● Don’t discuss your case with colleagues or supervisors — they may be interviewed as witnesses and their recollections will be used against you
● Don’t post anything about your situation on social media or in any communication that could be discovered
● Preserve records that support your account — emails showing authorization, approvals, instructions from supervisors, or standard business practices
● Write down what you remember about the relevant transactions, decisions, and who else was involved, while it is fresh
● Follow all court orders and conditions of release or investigation exactly
● Contact an experienced Massachusetts criminal defense attorney as soon as possible — early intervention in financial cases can preserve defenses and sometimes prevent charges from being filed at all
Call (978) 705-4537 — we answer 24/7.
“I would absolutely recommend Ernie to anyone.”
He was more than just my lawyer. He was my guardian angel during a very scary and desperate time in my life. He walked with me every step of the way and looked out for my best interest at every twist and turn. He stayed available seven days a week and within moments of my reaching out to him. I will be indebted to him forever. I knew I was in safe hands even though my matter kept me in constant fear. He gave me the courage to keep pushing forward and spent countless hours cheerleading me through an unspeakable experience.
Diane
"Attorney Stone was excellent."
He was extremely knowledgeable and knew his way around the Diversion Program and the Court. He gave us all the information and potential results upfront. He explained the entire process to us from start to finish and he mapped out a plan of action that resulted in a favorable outcome for my child. I would recommend Attorney Stone 100 percent. Thanks to him my child has no criminal record.
Lisa
"I knew Ernie was the real deal."
I knew the moment I spoke to Ernie on the phone he was the real deal. He made us feel at ease during a very stressful time and fought for us. We won our case because of his perseverance and professionalism. He’s just a really good person who’s in your corner fighting for you. Thanks Ernie you’re the best!!!!
Cheryl
"I can't say enough about Ernie and his team. "
They helped our family navigate a very delicate and complicated legal situation. We couldn't be more pleased with the outcome. And Ernie's down-to-earth demeanor helped us feel like we were being listened to and never being talked down to. I would highly recommend Ernie, as I am certain he would do his absolute best to achieve a best-case-scenario outcome for every single one of his clients.
R. H.
"Much love and appreciation to this group"
I would recommend them to anyone. From the first call I knew this was the right choice. Ernie kept my best interests in mind when representing me with results better than expected! I can’t thank them enough. Special shout-out to Joanne who is truly the nicest person. Their whole vibe was homely like family. Much love and appreciation to this group... even the 4 legged nugget running around their office.
A. R.
"I was in good hands..."
Before working with Ernie I was very unaware of how my future would be and felt alone in my case; that all changed once I had Ernie Stone as my lawyer. Very professional, very reassuring, very caring and helpful with any questions you may have. I can definitely say that there was always a smile on their faces and made me feel welcomed and well taken care of. I had no doubt in mind that I was in good hands and that I was going to be alright.
R. J.
What to Expect When You Call
● We will listen to your story and answer your questions
● We will explain the charges and potential consequences under Massachusetts law
● We will discuss possible defense strategies for your specific situation
● We will explain our approach and how we can help
● Everything discussed is confidential — protected by attorney-client privilege even before you hire us
● There is no obligation to hire us
You do not need to have the answers -- just call, and we will take it from there. Phones answered 24/7 by a real person. Free, confidential consultation.
We'll Get You Through the Storm
Call (978) 705-4537 for a free consultation.
Over 30 years of Massachusetts criminal defense experience. Serving Essex County and Eastern Massachusetts including Beverly, Salem, Lynn, Peabody, Gloucester, Newburyport, Lawrence, and Haverhill.
We'll Get You Through the Storm
Contact our team today for a free consultation. We are available 24/7.
