If you’re under investigation for financial fraud, the most important step you can take is to protect your rights immediately. Whether you’ve received a subpoena, been contacted by federal agents, or suspect you’re being scrutinized, early legal intervention can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.
At Hilder Law & Associates, P.C., we have decades of experience defending clients in high-stakes white-collar investigations. Our Houston-based attorneys understand the complex nature of financial fraud cases and are committed to providing proactive, strategic defense at every stage.
Contact Hilder & Associates, P.C. at 713-655-9111 to learn more about your options.
Steps You Can Take to Protect Yourself
1. Do Not Speak to Investigators Without an Attorney
Anything you say can be used against you, even if you believe you’re not the target. Politely decline to answer questions until you’ve consulted legal counsel. Our firm can intervene on your behalf to protect your rights and manage communications with investigators.
2. Hire an Experienced Financial Fraud Defense Attorney
The earlier you retain a defense lawyer, the more control you have over your situation. Hilder Law & Associates brings decades of federal criminal defense experience and a reputation for discretion, thoroughness, and results.
3. Preserve All Relevant Documents and Communications
Deleting emails or destroying records can be interpreted as obstruction of justice. Instead, collect and preserve all potentially relevant documents so your legal team can review them and assess any exposure.
4. Avoid Discussing the Investigation With Anyone Else
Even casual conversations with coworkers, friends, or family can come back to haunt you. Investigators may subpoena phone records, social media accounts, and third-party testimony. Limit all discussions to your legal team.
5. Stay Informed and Involved
Our attorneys will walk you through each phase of the investigation, explain your options, and develop a clear plan. Knowing what to expect reduces anxiety and puts you in the best position to respond intelligently and confidently.
What Documentation Should Be Preserved During a Financial Fraud Investigation?
Preserving the right documentation early in an investigation can be critical to mounting a strong defense. Our legal team at Hilder & Associates, P.C. will need access to detailed financial records, including account statements, tax filings, wire transfers, emails, and internal communications that may support your position or refute the allegations.
Protect all relevant records and avoid deleting, altering, or discarding any material that could be considered evidence. Even seemingly minor correspondence or transaction history can play an important role in establishing context or disproving intent.
It is also advisable to maintain a log of your communications with banks, financial advisors, regulators, or investigators. Your attorney can use this to reconstruct timelines and evaluate the sequence of events with greater precision.
What Happens If I’m Charged?
If charges are filed, we will advise you on the next steps — including arraignment, potential bond hearings, and case strategy. In some cases, we may be able to resolve matters without charges being filed. Should I cooperate with investigators?
This depends on the nature of your involvement. Sometimes cooperation can reduce penalties or prevent charges. Other times, it may expose you to greater risk. We evaluate each situation carefully to advise what’s in your best interest.
Should I Cooperate with Investigators?
This depends on the nature of your involvement. Sometimes cooperation can reduce penalties or prevent charges. Other times, it may expose you to greater risk. We evaluate each situation carefully to advise what’s in your best interest.
Can Asset Protection Strategies Help?
Our lawyers may be able to provide you with asset protection strategies that could be beneficial to you and your case. You may want to consider an asset protection trust, though Texas has certain limitations you will need to evaluate. We can help you make sure your trust is set up the right way. Prioritizing your retirement accounts or transferring assets to an LLC can also be potential options for protecting your assets.
Schedule a Consultation Today
When you are charged with financial fraud, the most important thing you can do is contact an experienced defense lawyer and start working on a viable defense strategy. Without a solid defense strategy, it’s possible that you may lose your case and suffer the full extent of the penalties.Our legal team at Hilder & Associates, P.C. can assist you in putting together a strong defense against your financial fraud charges. Reach out to us at 713-655-9111 or contact us online to discuss your case with a valued team member in a free consultation. We have the answers you need to help you navigate the complicated legal system. With the help of our team, you can confidently build the defense strategy you need.
