Los Angeles White Collar Crime Attorney

White collar criminal charges can destroy careers and businesses. Federal prosecutors bring vast resources to these cases, and early action matters.

That’s why Mr. Handzlik founded Jan Lawrence Handzlik, APC, in 2014. He defends executives and companies in white collar cases. Based in Los Angeles, he represents clients nationwide and handles cross-border matters.

The Los Angeles White Collar Defense Process Explained

Mr. Handzlik at Jan Lawrence Handzlik, APC, handles white collar criminal defense from the first investigation through appeals. He defends clients across:

• Investigation: This is the earliest stage, often before formal charges are filed. Federal agencies such as the FBI or SEC gather documents, interview witnesses and analyze financial records. At this point, individuals may not even realize they are under scrutiny. A strong defense focuses on controlling information flow, protecting client rights and preventing escalation.
• Indictments: An indictment means prosecutors believe they have enough evidence to formally charge someone with a crime. This follows a grand jury review. Defense attorneys shift focus to examining the prosecution’s evidence, identifying weaknesses and filing motions to dismiss flawed charges. For instance, if financial records were misinterpreted, the defense may present alternative explanations that challenge intent, which is critical in white collar cases.
• Trials: If the case proceeds to trial, both sides present evidence, question witnesses and argue before a judge or jury. White collar trials can involve complex financial data, making it essential for the defense to simplify and humanize the narrative. Mr. Handzlik may use expert witnesses, forensic accountants and strategic storytelling to counter the prosecution’s claims.
• Sentencing: If a conviction occurs, sentencing determines penalties such as fines, restitution or imprisonment. Defense attorneys advocate for reduced penalties by highlighting mitigating factors like lack of prior offenses or cooperation during the investigation. For example, demonstrating that a client played a minor role in a larger scheme can impact the outcome.

Early intervention can shape charging decisions and outcomes before prosecutors file charges.

Jan built a trusted reputation on complex financial crime. His trial-tested accolades include more than 100 jury trials to verdict. This experience matters when white collar cases reach key stages. He works from Los Angeles, California, and defends clients nationwide. He also handles cross-border white collar matters that involve multiple countries.

Matters The White Collar Crime Attorney Handles

Jan Lawrence Handzlik, APC’s white collar practice covers financial and corporate crime across many areas. These include:

• Securities fraud, investment fraud and bank fraud
• Money laundering
• Tax fraud and tax evasion
• Commercial bribery
• RICO violations
• FCPA and UK Bribery Act cases
• Cyber-enabled investment schemes
• Currency and crypto trading investigations
• Health care fraud
• Identity theft

White collar cases involve many agencies. Jan works with matters from the DOJ, U.S. Attorney’s Offices, SEC, CFTC, IRS-CI, FinCEN, OFAC and state attorneys general. Many white collar cases include parallel civil and regulatory actions that require well-crafted defense strategies.

Trial-Tough Strategy That Drives Outcomes

Trial readiness gives clients an edge in white collar cases. From the first proffer to plea talks to verdict, prosecutors respect defense lawyers who will fight. Jan has tried more than 100 jury trials to verdict in complex federal cases. He is willing and able to try white collar cases even if a settlement is uncertain.

High-stakes white collar matters require a credible trial posture. Prosecutors make better offers when they know a case might go to trial. Jan uses his trial-ready approach to fight for fair outcomes at every stage of white collar criminal cases. This approach works for clients who face serious charges and need strong support.

Common White Collar Criminal Case Triggers

Mr. Handzlik at Jan Lawrence Handzlik, APC, will stand up for corporations, boards, executives and high-asset clients in white collar matters. As a federal white collar crime lawyer, he is no stranger to cases that put businesses and careers at risk. Clients should call when they face these white collar triggers:

• Whistleblower claims: These arise when an employee or insider reports suspected wrongdoing, often to regulators.
• Subpoena or target letters: A subpoena demands documents or testimony, while a target letter indicates that prosecutors consider someone a potential defendant. Receiving either is a serious warning sign that legal representation is needed immediately.
• Dawn raids: These are unannounced searches conducted by authorities, usually early in the morning. Agents may seize computers, documents and other evidence. For instance, a company suspected of fraud may face a sudden office search.
• Internal investigations: Companies often conduct their own reviews after discovering potential misconduct. While internal, these investigations can lead to external legal consequences if findings are shared with regulators.
• Parallel SEC or CFTC inquiries: In financial cases, multiple agencies may investigate simultaneously. For example, the SEC may pursue civil penalties while another agency explores criminal charges for the same conduct.
• Cross-border exposure: When business activities involve multiple countries, legal risks increase. A transaction that violates U.S. law may also trigger enforcement abroad, complicating defense strategies and increasing potential penalties.

Jan provides high-touch, straight-talk counsel. Clients receive senior attention, discretion, clear communication and diligence throughout white collar cases. He has nationwide and cross-border capability, and coordinates with local counsel and foreign proceedings when needed.

White collar criminal law needs lawyers who understand the realities of business and legal risks. Jan focuses on white collar defense and brings deep knowledge to every case.

The Attorney You Need When Serious Charges Are Made

If you face a white collar criminal investigation or charge, contact Jan Lawrence Handzlik, APC, at 213-349-4606. You can also reach out online.