Most aspiring lawyers join the BA LLB program drawn by criminal litigation. But then they get stuck in fields that pay too little. We, at SMS Law College, are here to guide you to law careers where our law students can make big bucks and still enjoy the adrenaline rush of fighting against crimes.

Expertise in white collar crimes and speciality legal defence matters can lead you to high-paying corporate clients, HNIs and foreign investors. Representing these entities for highly paid criminal litigation work will see you deal with authorities like the Enforcement Directorate, CBI, regulatory officers, and specialised investigative agencies. You will often find yourself at special criminal courts working on cases like corporate fraud, money laundering, securities fraud, and Ponzi schemes that often garner a lot of media attention.

What are White Collar Crimes?

As law students, you must have already noticed how white collar crimes are one of the fastest-growing practice areas when it comes to criminal litigation. While crime rates in India are falling in general, white collar crimes (such as economic and financial offences) are on the rise. And there’s a scarcity of trained lawyers in this area.

Law firms readily hire BA LLB graduates who have the interest and expertise to excel in this field. Top law firms are hiring new members to fight white collar crimes and many new law firms are emerging in this field. This practice area is attracting litigators because it pays well and is quite rewarding.

It means that aspiring lawyers can look forward to joining boutique law firms or big law firms, working as independent lawyers with corporate clients, or even starting their own law firm to fight white collar crimes.

Who Should Go for Law Careers in White Collar Crimes?

• Aspiring lawyers who want to earn more: White collar crime speciality is in very high demand. It has little competition and generally, has high margins.
• Litigators who want to establish themselves as an authority in the field: White collar crime specialists work with corporate clients and MNCs. It’s a very unique opportunity. Hence, you get paid well and develop high-class contacts.
• Law students looking for jobs: White collar crime practice is highly profitable. Hence, several new boutique law firms are coming up to tap this opportunity. Many big law firms are rapidly expanding their teams to fight white collar crimes. So, if you build your expertise in the field, it’s easier to get a job. The chances of growth are also high in this field.
• Aspiring lawyers who want to go into criminal litigation but still play safe: When it comes to litigation, personal safety and ethical concerns can become a challenge. White collar crimes are safer in this regard. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Here, we are answering some of the most commonly asked questions our BA LLB students have about law careers related to white collar crimes:

1. Why is the Demand for White Collar Crime Fighters Skyrocketing?

Demand for white collar crime fighters in India is skyrocketing! India, with its booming economy and increasing digital footprint, is seeing a surge in cases like:

• Ponzi schemes: Remember the infamous Saradha Group or Rose Valley chit fund scams? These complex financial frauds highlight the growing need for lawyers who can navigate such intricate white-collar crimes.
• Cybercrime: As India embraces digital payments and online transactions, cybercrime is on the rise. Lawyers adept at handling data breaches, online fraud, and cryptocurrency-related offences are in high demand.
• Corporate fraud: From accounting scandals to insider trading, corporate misconduct is a growing concern. Lawyers specializing in white-collar crime can help companies navigate complex regulations and defend themselves against accusations.

These are just a few examples, and with the government’s increasing focus on financial regulations, the demand for skilled white-collar crime specialists is only expected to grow. This creates a hot new legal career path for aspiring BA LLB students in India.

2. Beyond Courtroom Battles: What Does a White Collar Lawyer Do?

White collar lawyers go beyond courtroom showdowns. They delve into complex financial documents, navigate high-pressure situations for corporations, and liaise with regulatory bodies. It’s a world of meticulous investigation, strategic negotiation, and ensuring the best outcome for clients facing white collar accusations.

3. Law Firms on a White Collar Crime Spree: Why the Expansion?

India’s top law firms are on a white-collar hiring spree! And why not? Economic growth and digitalization are fueling white-collar crimes in the country. India. This surge translates to high-profile cases and significant fees for law firms with skilled white-collar specialists. 

A robust white-collar crime team enhances a law firm’s reputation and attracts big-ticket clients. And as these cases are often complex and lengthy, law firms get substantial fees for them. Aspiring lawyers who choose law careers in related fields get attractive salaries and career growth too.

4. Cracking the Code: Your Roadmap to White Collar Crime Law Success

Building a stellar white collar crime law career requires a strategic plan. As students of the BA LLB program, you should focus on strengthening your core knowledge in criminal law, evidence, and business law. 

Also, white-collar cases hinge on meticulous analysis of financial data. Hence, good research and analytical skills and additional courses or certifications in financial forensics can be an added advantage in this field. 

Aspiring lawyers should try and build connections with experienced white-collar lawyers, prosecutors, and forensic accountants in India. Attending industry conferences and workshops to expand your network is a good idea. 

Use the college resources wisely and stay updated on the white collar landscape in India and abroad to get the best chances.

5. White Collar vs. Traditional Crime: What’s the Difference?

The key differences between white-collar and traditional crime lie in the nature of the offence, the perpetrators, and the legal approach. Traditional crimes involve acts like theft, assault, or violence. White-collar crimes, however, are financial in nature – think embezzlement, Ponzi schemes, or securities fraud.

Traditionally, crimes are often committed by individuals with limited resources but white collar crimes frequently involve corporations, executives, or high-net-worth individuals. Hence, in traditional cases, lawyers often focus on witness testimonies and physical evidence while criminal litigators pour over complex financial records, navigate regulatory agencies like SEBI or the Enforcement Directorate (ED), and have to understand intricate financial instruments.

6. Transitioning from Traditional Lawyer to White Collar Crime Specialist: How to Make the Leap?

For law students and aspiring lawyers already versed in criminal law, a switch to white collar crime might be on the horizon. Internships or even pro bono work related to economic offences and financial crimes, like loan defaults or embezzlement cases, can demonstrate your interest.

You can take Continuing Legal Education (CLE) courses focused on white-collar crime in India and abroad, and connect with lawyers specializing in white-collar crime at conferences, workshops, or bar association events.

Publishing articles or research papers on white-collar crime issues is also a good way to establish yourself as a thought leader and demonstrate expertise in this field. We can help you in tailoring your resume and cover letter to highlight your criminal law experience and your interest in the specific area. Seek help from the placement cell for it.

7. White Collar Crime: A Lucrative Path or a Fleeting Trend?

According to a 2020 report, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has found a total of 6,533 cases of corruption over the last 10 years, of which 517 cases have been recorded over the last two years. 

White collar crimes are rising because of greed, lack of awareness among people, lack of strict rules and laws, lack of accountability, peer support, loopholes in legal structure, and technological and industrial development among other reasons. It means that we can safely assume to be a safe career path for aspiring lawyers.

Do you have other questions you would like to discuss? Contact your law professors to learn more.