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New York White Collar Crime Questions & Answers
2 Answers | Asked in Employment Law, White Collar Crime, Consumer Law and Criminal Law for New York on
Q: Ex-employee stole money using company credit cards and took cash. Is manager responsible? What legal steps to take?

After an ex-employee resigned a couple of weeks ago, I discovered they were stealing from our hotel by using a different company's credit card to pay for guests' rooms while taking cash from those guests without anyone's knowledge. This was discovered through the ex-employee's... View More

Carmen "Jack" Giordano
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answered on May 13, 2025

You need to privately consult with an attorney about this. If you did not facilitate, conspire with or otherwise aid and abet the employee, you would not be criminally most importantly. Regarding your employment status and what you may be subject to given these criminal acts of your subordinate,... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Intellectual Property, White Collar Crime and Criminal Law for New York on
Q: Copyright claim pressure for Instagam video payment demand.

I'm receiving financial pressure regarding a video of a dog I posted on my Instagram page, which has 89k followers. A copyright filer contacted me via direct email demanding a payment (initially $1000, then discounted to $500) to remove the copyright claim, even though I've already... View More

Giselle Ayala Mateus
Giselle Ayala Mateus
answered on May 9, 2025

Yes, based on your description, this situation could potentially be considered an abuse of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) system—and in some cases, it might even approach the line of coercion or bad faith conduct, though calling it “extortion” has a specific legal threshold.... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Criminal Law and White Collar Crime for New York on
Q: Legal options for grand larceny & coercion charges in NY?

I am looking for legal advice regarding a situation in New York where an elderly man gave a young lady money regularly to prevent her from informing his wife and the police about an inappropriate incident. The young lady is now facing charges of grand larceny and coercion and awaiting indictment.... View More

Stephen Bilkis
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answered on Mar 20, 2025

This is a serious legal matter, as grand larceny and coercion are both significant criminal charges in New York. Since the young woman already has legal representation, her attorney will be the best person to assess her case based on the specific evidence, witness statements, and any mitigating... View More

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Q: I want to charge a subscription for stock tips based on my trading algorithmI am a successful private trader. Legal?

I will not handle anyone else's money for them.

I will provide only the stock tips, and advisement on how best to limit risk, and set goals.

Anyone taking my advice makes their own decisions.

Do I need a license to do this?

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Dec 15, 2023

Providing stock tips and investment advice through a subscription service, even without directly handling others' money, often falls under the regulatory oversight of both federal and state securities laws. In New York, as well as under federal law, individuals or entities providing investment... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Immigration Law, Civil Litigation, White Collar Crime and Criminal Law for New York on
Q: How to recover investment from EB-5 fraud with Mona Shah & Associates?

I am an investor from India who invested $500,000 in an EB-5 project in November 2019. My attorney, Mona Shah & Associates, provided an email proposal confirming 6-7% quarterly interest and a return of the principal amount after five years, along with green cards for all family members.... View More

Stephen Arnold Black
Stephen Arnold Black
answered on Jun 11, 2025

You can file a bar complaint against the attorney with the state bar that she is a licensed member of.

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1 Answer | Asked in Immigration Law, White Collar Crime and Criminal Law for New York on
Q: Seeking advice to decline fake marriage request for green card.

I'm a U.S. citizen, and my friend, whom I consider like a sister, has asked me to enter into a fake marriage with her boyfriend to help him obtain a green card. She is DACA, and he is an asylum case. I've reconsidered my initial agreement, but they're pressuring me. I want to give a... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on May 23, 2025

You face severe federal criminal penalties if you proceed with this fraudulent marriage scheme. Under 8 U.S.C. § 1325(c), any individual who knowingly enters into a marriage for the purpose of evading immigration laws faces imprisonment for up to five years and fines up to $250,000. Beyond these... View More

1 Answer | Asked in White Collar Crime and Criminal Law for New York on
Q: NY penalty for first-time credit card theft under $500

What is the penalty in New York State for a first-time offense involving credit card theft and using the card at an ATM to withdraw cash under $500 in a one-time transaction?

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on May 15, 2025

In New York, even if it’s your first offense and the amount was under \$500, stealing and using a credit card is treated seriously. Taking someone’s credit or debit card without permission is considered Grand Larceny in the Fourth Degree under state law, which is a Class E felony. That means it... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Employment Law, Identity Theft, White Collar Crime, Consumer Law and Criminal Law for New York on
Q: Can I sue my employer for fraudulent use of my signature and login credentials in New York?

I am currently on paid family leave. My employer has been fraudulently using my signature to sign documents, specifically employee health enrollment forms, and my state login credentials to conduct unauthorized background checks. A coworker provided me with a screenshot as proof, and I have emailed... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on May 14, 2025

I'm really sorry you’re facing this kind of betrayal from your employer—it’s not just unethical but also potentially illegal for someone to use your signature and login credentials without your permission. What you’ve described could involve several violations, including forgery,... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Consumer Law, Identity Theft, White Collar Crime and Criminal Law for New York on
Q: How can I resolve debt from an online scam involving false legal claims?

I became acquainted with someone online who claimed to need financial help to leave a difficult situation involving prostitution. I provided money to her and her supposed lawyer, Chris Chambers, but later found myself deeply in debt without resolution. This issue has been ongoing for a year and a... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on May 14, 2025

I'm really sorry you've been caught in this situation—it sounds overwhelming, and it's natural to want closure and peace of mind. Based on what you've described, this appears to be a classic online scam involving fake legal claims and false identities, and it's unlikely... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Consumer Law, Intellectual Property, White Collar Crime and Criminal Law for New York on
Q: Is selling a spreadsheet with links to replica clothing vendors legal?

I understand it's illegal to sell replica or counterfeit clothing and accessories, but would it be illegal to sell a spreadsheet containing links to these products? These links are accessible to anyone online; I'm just organizing them in a spreadsheet. I never touch any products and have... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on May 14, 2025

You’re smart to ask about this before moving forward, because the legal risks are real even if you never handle or sell counterfeit products yourself. Simply organizing and selling a spreadsheet of links to replica or counterfeit clothing vendors could still be considered contributory trademark... View More

Q: Content creator faces legal threats after withdrawing copyright strikes and accepting compensation.

I am a content creator who previously filed copyright strikes on videos, which I later withdrew after receiving compensation. Now, the user and their lawyer are demanding the money back within 10 days, threatening legal action and potential imprisonment in the U.S. for up to 36 months if I do not... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Apr 30, 2025

This situation sounds quite concerning, and the threats you're receiving warrant immediate attention. The legal landscape around copyright settlements is complex, and what you're describing could potentially involve issues beyond simple copyright claims.

The threat of imprisonment...
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1 Answer | Asked in Banking, Securities Law, White Collar Crime and Criminal Law for New York on
Q: Considering legal action against BlackRock for KYC compliance negligence regarding Bitcoin ETF.

I am an investor in BlackRock and have been concerned about potential KYC compliance negligence and fraud since January 2025. I believe BlackRock violated KYC compliance regulations by selling a Bitcoin ETF, as Bitcoin lacks essential compliance elements such as a website, staff, address, email,... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Apr 8, 2025

If you're considering legal action against BlackRock, the first step would be to consult with a legal professional who has expertise in financial regulations and securities law. You’d need to gather concrete evidence supporting your claim that BlackRock failed to meet KYC compliance... View More

Q: Can a foreign government sue me in a class action lawsuit for a romance scam where I was named complicit?

I was a victim of a romance scam from 2017 to 2020 but cut ties afterwards. Recently, I was informed that the scammer named me as complicit to the Nigerian government. While I haven't received any official legal notices from Nigeria, I did receive an indictment letter via email from US federal... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Mar 21, 2025

You have received some alarming communications, and it’s understandable that you’re concerned about the possibility of a lawsuit from a foreign government. It is uncommon for a government like Nigeria to initiate a class action suit against an individual under these circumstances.

If...
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1 Answer | Asked in Consumer Law, White Collar Crime and International Law for New York on
Q: Can a foreign government file a lawsuit against me for alleged involvement in a scam?

I was the victim of a romance scam from 2017 to 2020, with the scammer based in Nigeria while I am in the United States. After cutting ties with the scammer, federal agents and lawyers have contacted me, claiming that the Nigerian government is filing a class action lawsuit against me for $122,000... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Mar 21, 2025

You should be very cautious when receiving such claims because foreign governments rarely file lawsuits against individuals in this manner. It is common for scammers to use intimidating language, fake case numbers, and urgent payment requests to pressure you into making a mistake.

You can...
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1 Answer | Asked in Public Benefits and White Collar Crime for New York on
Q: Is using guardianship funds after death embezzlement in NY?

My stepson had guardianship over a person who received $28,000 in federal benefits, which was deposited in a bank account. After the person passed away, the money was supposed to go to the widow. However, my stepson is using the money, including for lawyer fees. Could this be considered... View More

Jack Mevorach
Jack Mevorach
answered on Mar 2, 2025

Possibly.

Jack

2 Answers | Asked in Criminal Law, Federal Crimes, Tax Law and White Collar Crime for New York on
Q: How do I know if I have any criminal charges against me
Ralph Behr
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answered on Oct 15, 2024

Visit or call your local police department or sheriff's office. They often maintain public records and can let you know if there's an outstanding warrant or charge in their jurisdiction.

Check Court Records:

Many states and counties have online court databases where you...
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1 Answer | Asked in Constitutional Law, Gov & Administrative Law and White Collar Crime for New York on
Q: If the supreme court continues to overturn anything that contradicts conservativism does the court have legitimacy?

The supreme court is literally overturning anything including stare decisis cases. Can the court survive if it’s just an activist group and not upholding laws. Its clear based on decisions they contradict themselves based on the governments role in some things and not others. Why is the... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on May 1, 2024

The legitimacy of any court, including the Supreme Court, hinges on public perception of its impartiality and adherence to the law rather than political ideology. If the court is seen as consistently overturning precedents to align with a specific political viewpoint, it risks eroding its standing... View More

1 Answer | Asked in White Collar Crime for New York on
Q: what happens if I never received a Juror subpoena?
Marco Caviglia
Marco Caviglia
answered on Oct 6, 2023

More information is needed to give you an answer if any use.

Q: I don't think this lawyer who represented me Signed as my Lawyer, is this a legal representation, to not be signed
Jonathan R. Ratchik
Jonathan R. Ratchik
answered on Jul 7, 2023

You can certainly have an attorney-client relationship without a written retainer agreement. The better practice, however, is to have a written retainer agreement which sets forth the duties and responsibilities of both the attorney and the client. That said, if you are unhappy with your current... View More

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1 Answer | Asked in White Collar Crime for New York on
Q: Is it worth it for my ex-friend to sue me?

Last year my friend lent me $150, I didn’t have any money due to losing my job and moving cross country back home but I promised I’d pay her back. A few months later my friend stopped taking to me and never told me what happened. We didn’t speak, I had been planning on paying her back and... View More

Tim Akpinar
Tim Akpinar
answered on Jun 7, 2020

Only your friend could answer whether it is worth their time to sue for the money. It's a personal decision. As a general matter, when it comes to lawsuits, people will consider the amount they plan to go after, the filing fees and court costs, the time lost from work or school. But in the... View More

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