Best White Collar Crime Lawyers in Brasília

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Founded in 2017
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Forti & Nascimento Advocacia e Consultoria Jurídica, established in 2017, is a distinguished law firm based in São Paulo, Brazil. The firm offers comprehensive legal services across multiple practice areas, including Criminal Law, Civil Law, Labor Relations, and Consumer Rights. Their team of...
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About White Collar Crime Law in Brasília, Brazil

White Collar Crime refers to non-violent crimes that are typically committed by individuals or organizations for financial gain. In Brasília, Brazil’s political and administrative capital, such crimes often involve high-level professionals, business executives, government officials, and companies. Common examples include fraud, embezzlement, tax evasion, bribery, money laundering, insider trading, misuse of public funds, and corruption-related activities. Due to Brasília’s status as the seat of government and many federal agencies, white collar crimes here are closely scrutinized by local and federal authorities.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

White Collar Crime cases are often complex and can have serious consequences, including criminal prosecution, hefty fines, asset forfeiture, and reputational damage. You may need a lawyer in situations such as:

  • Facing investigation or charges for fraud, corruption, or financial misconduct
  • Receiving a subpoena or being called as a witness in an inquiry or investigation
  • Suspecting you are implicated in inappropriate financial transactions at your workplace
  • Having business accounts or assets frozen or seized by authorities
  • Preventing or responding to defamation or loss of reputation due to allegations
  • Ensuring compliance with anti-corruption, anti-money laundering, and data protection laws
  • Seeking advice on whistleblowing or reporting corruption safely

A qualified lawyer can guide you through investigations or proceedings, help protect your rights, prepare defenses, and handle negotiations with authorities.

Local Laws Overview

In Brasília, as throughout Brazil, White Collar Crimes are primarily governed by federal law. The main legal frameworks include:

  • Peculato and Corruption Laws: The Brazilian Penal Code and Law No. 8.429/1992 (Administrative Improbity Law) set out penalties for corruption, embezzlement, and abuse of office including crimes involving public officials.
  • Anti-Corruption Law (Law No. 12.846/2013): Known as the Clean Company Act, this law holds companies and individuals liable for corrupt acts against public administration, including bribery and fraud.
  • Anti-Money Laundering Law (Law No. 9.613/1998): Addresses the concealment of illicitly obtained assets and finances and mandates reporting of suspicious financial activities.
  • Tax Evasion Laws: Federal tax laws and criminal statutes penalize tax crimes, including fraudulent reporting and avoidance schemes.
  • Federal Police and Public Prosecutor Oversight: White collar crimes in Brasília often involve federal-level investigation and prosecution by the Ministério Público Federal and the Polícia Federal.

There are also specific local and federal regulations that set compliance standards for public procurement, bidding processes, and contracts which often come under scrutiny in white collar investigations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered a white collar crime in Brasília?

White collar crime includes fraud, embezzlement, bribery, money laundering, tax evasion, insider trading, public procurement fraud, and misuse of public funds.

Who investigates white collar crimes in Brasília?

The Federal Police, the Ministério Público Federal (Federal Prosecutor’s Office), and sometimes state-level prosecutors investigate these crimes, especially when they involve federal funds or officials.

Can someone be arrested during a white collar crime investigation?

Yes, arrests can occur, particularly if there is evidence of obstruction, destruction of proof, or a risk that the suspect will flee or interfere with the investigation.

What penalties could I face if convicted of a white collar crime?

Penalties can include imprisonment, fines, loss of assets, bans from holding public office, and being barred from contracting with government agencies.

Is it possible to negotiate a plea deal in these cases?

Plea bargains (collaborations with authorities) are increasing in Brazil and may result in reduced charges or sentences, particularly when the accused assists investigations.

What should I do if I receive a subpoena or investigation notice?

Seek immediate legal counsel. Do not destroy documents or make statements to investigators without guidance, as this could jeopardize your defense.

Can companies be held liable for white collar crimes?

Yes, companies can face administrative and civil penalties, including heavy fines and restrictions on business operations if found culpable under the Clean Company Act or related laws.

What is the role of compliance programs in preventing white collar crimes?

Effective compliance programs can reduce liability, demonstrate good faith, and sometimes mitigate penalties for companies and their management under anti-corruption laws.

How can I report a suspected white collar crime?

You can submit reports anonymously to bodies like the Federal Police, the Ministério Público, or the Tribunal de Contas da União (Brazil’s Federal Audit Court).

Do these laws apply only to public officials or companies?

No, they apply to all individuals and legal entities, including private sector actors, business owners, and employees involved in financial crimes.

Additional Resources

If you need further information or wish to report a crime, consider the following resources:

  • Polícia Federal: Handles investigations into federal offenses, including white collar crimes.
  • Ministério Público Federal (MPF): Prosecutes criminal conduct and receives complaints from the public.
  • Tribunal de Contas da União (TCU): Audits government spending and investigates public fund misuse.
  • Ordem dos Advogados do Brasil (OAB) - Seccional do Distrito Federal: Helps connect clients with licensed attorneys experienced in white collar crime defense.
  • Controladoria-Geral da União (CGU): Oversees compliance and transparency in public administration.

Next Steps

If you are facing a white collar crime investigation or charge in Brasília, or are concerned about your legal risks, start by consulting a qualified attorney who specializes in criminal and financial law. Gather all relevant documents, correspondence, and evidence as soon as possible. Do not rush to respond to authorities or media inquiries before receiving legal advice.

You can locate lawyers through the Ordem dos Advogados do Brasil - Distrito Federal, or ask for referrals from trusted professionals. Be prepared to explain your situation in detail so your lawyer can assess risks and plan a defense. Timely and informed action is critical to safeguarding your rights in white collar crime matters.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Brasília through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including White Collar Crime, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Brasília, Brazil - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.