Protecting Business People from Federal Prosecution

White collar criminal investigations are often years in the making before charges are filed. The DOJ, SEC, IRS-CI, FBI, and OFAC may be quietly building a case while your business continues to operate. By the time a target letter arrives or agents appear at your door, the government may already have evidence from subpoenas, informants, wiretaps, and forensic accountants.

Early engagement of experienced counsel is critical. George J. Vila has successfully represented executives, business owners, and professionals in white collar investigations — in many cases achieving results where charges were never filed.

White Collar Cases We Handle

• Securities fraud and insider trading (SEC investigations)
• FCPA — Foreign Corrupt Practices Act violations
• OFAC violations and sanctions breaches
• Tax evasion, tax fraud, and IRS criminal investigations
• Insurance fraud — federal and state
• Bank fraud and mortgage fraud
• Wire fraud and mail fraud
• Healthcare fraud and Medicare/Medicaid fraud
• Money laundering in connection with business transactions
• Corporate fraud and breach of fiduciary duty

Internal Investigations

Before government investigators arrive, companies often conduct internal investigations. We advise businesses and individuals on how to respond to internal investigations in a way that protects their rights and minimizes criminal exposure — including Fifth Amendment considerations, document preservation obligations, and cooperation decisions.