White-collar cases rarely start with an arrest. They often begin with a subpoena, a call from a detective or federal agent, a search warrant at your business, or an employer’s internal audit. By the time charges are filed, prosecutors may have spent months building their case. A conviction for fraud, embezzlement, or identity theft in Nevada can mean years in state or federal prison, large fines, restitution, and lasting damage to your career and reputation. If you or a family member is under investigation or has been charged with a white-collar crime in Las Vegas, The Walsh Firm, Ltd., can review the evidence, explain what you’re really facing, and build a defense aimed at protecting your freedom, your finances, and your good name.
“White-collar crime” is not a single charge. It’s a term used to describe non-violent, financially motivated offenses that usually involve deception, a breach of trust, or the misuse of someone else’s money or information. In Nevada, many of these crimes are found in NRS Chapter 205, including theft (NRS 205.0832), embezzlement (NRS 205.300), and identity theft (NRS 205.463).
How a case is charged depends on the dollar amount involved, the number of victims, whether an older or vulnerable person was affected, and whether the conduct crossed state lines or involved federal programs, banks, the mail, or electronic communications.
Under NRS 205.0835, theft and embezzlement penalties are based on the value of the money, property, or services involved, as follows:
In every case, the court must also order restitution to repay the alleged victims.
Identity theft under NRS 205.463 is a Category B felony, punishable by one to 20 years in prison and fines of up to $100,000. The minimum sentence rises to three years when the case involves an older or vulnerable person, five or more victims, or losses over $3,000.
Many white-collar cases can be charged in state court, federal court, or both. A case is more likely to go federal when it involves:
Federal cases are investigated by agencies like the FBI, IRS, and Secret Service, and they often carry heavier sentences. Wire fraud and mail fraud, for example, can each carry up to 20 years in federal prison. Federal sentencing is also driven largely by the amount of loss, which makes the loss calculation one of the most important parts of the defense.
Every white-collar case turns on its own facts and paperwork, but common defense strategies include:
Can I go to prison for a white-collar crime in Nevada?
Yes. Most white-collar offenses involving $1,200 or more are felonies in Nevada, and larger losses can mean up to 20 years in prison. However, many cases can be resolved through negotiation, restitution, or a strong defense.
If I pay the money back, will the charges be dropped?
Not automatically. Repaying the loss doesn’t erase the alleged crime, but it can be a major factor in negotiating reduced charges or a lighter sentence. Talk to an attorney before offering repayment, since an offer can sometimes be treated as an admission.
What should I do if I receive a target letter or subpoena?
Contact a white-collar crime attorney right away. A target letter means prosecutors believe you may have committed a crime. How you respond can greatly affect the outcome.
What’s the difference between state and federal fraud charges?
State charges are brought by the Clark County District Attorney under Nevada law. Federal charges are brought by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and often involve larger losses, multiple states, banks, or federal programs. Federal cases typically carry harsher penalties.
Do I need a lawyer if I’m only being investigated?
Yes. The investigation stage is often the best time to protect your rights and, in some cases, prevent charges from being filed at all.
A white-collar conviction in Nevada can lead to consequences that reach beyond the sentence itself. Depending on the charge, a conviction can lead to:
Robert J. Walsh, Esq. has been admitted to practice law in Nevada since 1989 and in Illinois since 1990, and brings 35 years of legal experience, including the perspective of a former judge, to every white-collar case The Walsh Firm, Ltd. handles. That courtroom-side view of how judges and prosecutors evaluate evidence and negotiate pleas gives clients a real advantage, whether the goal is avoiding charges, a dismissal, a reduction to a lesser charge, or a trial defense. The firm’s corporate law practice also brings a working knowledge of business records, entity structures, and compliance that many white-collar cases turn on.
The Walsh Firm, Ltd., is committed to no-nonsense legal representation and timely communication, so clients always know where their case stands. The firm is available 24/7, offers home visits, and provides services in Spanish for clients who need them. Fee structures for white-collar cases are discussed upfront during your consultation, so you know what to expect before moving forward.
If you or someone you love is under investigation or has been charged with a white-collar crime in Las Vegas, don’t wait to get legal help. Early representation can make a real difference in how your case unfolds. Contact The Walsh Firm, Ltd., at 500 North Rainbow Boulevard, Suite 115, Las Vegas, NV 89107, or call (702) 474-4660 to discuss your case today. The firm is available 24/7, and Spanish-language services are offered.
This page is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Contact The Walsh Firm, Ltd., directly to discuss the specific facts of your case.