Atlanta White Collar Defense & Internal Investigations Attorneys
Protecting Businesses and Executives in High-Stakes Investigations
Allegations of white collar crime and corporate misconduct can threaten not only a company’s bottom line but also the personal reputations and freedom of its executives. At TKST, our White Collar & Investigations team in Atlanta defends corporations, boards, and business leaders against government investigations, regulatory enforcement, and complex financial crime allegations. With extensive trial experience and deep regulatory knowledge, we deliver aggressive, discreet, and strategic defense at every stage of the process.
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GENERAL WHITE COLLAR DEFENSE ATTORNEYS –
SERVING ATLANTA & ACROSS GEORGIA
White collar matters are among the most sensitive and complex cases businesses can face. Investigations often involve federal and state agencies, including the Department of Justice (DOJ), the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Allegations may include fraud, bribery, embezzlement, money laundering, insider trading, or violations of anti-corruption laws such as the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA).
These cases require not only legal expertise but also discretion and a deep understanding of regulatory enforcement trends. At TKST, we provide corporations and executives with defense strategies that aim to limit exposure, resolve investigations efficiently, and, when necessary, aggressively fight charges in court. We also assist companies in conducting internal investigations to uncover issues, ensure compliance, and demonstrate proactive measures to regulators.
Areas of Focus in White Collar & Investigations
Fraud & Financial Crimes
We defend corporations, executives, and professionals against complex fraud allegations, including mail fraud, wire fraud, bank fraud, securities fraud, accounting irregularities, and corporate misrepresentation. Our attorneys analyze financial records, internal communications, and transaction histories to build strong defenses and counter government claims.
Bribery & Corruption Cases
Our team represents businesses and leaders accused of bribery, public corruption, or violations of anti-corruption laws, including the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA). We advise on compliance, defend against enforcement actions, and protect companies in industries vulnerable to corruption-related scrutiny, such as construction, government contracting, and international trade.
Insider Trading & Securities Violations
We defend executives, directors, and corporations against allegations of insider trading, market manipulation, and improper disclosures. These cases often involve the SEC, FINRA, and DOJ. Our attorneys leverage a deep understanding of securities law to protect clients from criminal charges, civil penalties, and reputational harm.
Money Laundering & Asset Forfeiture
We defend businesses and individuals accused of concealing or moving funds linked to alleged unlawful activities. Our team challenges government claims in money laundering cases and aggressively fights to prevent or recover improper asset forfeitures that can cripple a company’s operations.
Government & Regulatory Investigations
Federal and state agencies have broad powers in white collar cases. We guide clients through investigations by the DOJ, SEC, FTC, IRS, and other enforcement bodies. Our attorneys anticipate regulator tactics, manage document production, prepare executives for testimony, and work to resolve matters before they escalate into formal charges.
Internal Corporate Investigations
We assist boards of directors, audit committees, and corporate counsel with discreet internal reviews when misconduct or compliance concerns arise. By conducting thorough investigations, we help identify problems early, strengthen compliance programs, reduce liability, and demonstrate proactive steps to regulators — often mitigating penalties or avoiding charges entirely.
Our Approach to White Collar Defense
White collar cases can be some of the most complex and high-stakes matters a company or executive will ever face. Investigations often span multiple agencies, involve highly technical financial data, and attract unwanted public and media scrutiny. At TKST, we balance aggressive defense strategies with careful, discreet navigation to protect both businesses and their leadership. Our team provides immediate response, regulatory guidance, proactive internal investigations, and strong courtroom advocacy — ensuring our clients’ interests are protected at every stage.
Immediate Response & Risk Containment
The earliest moments of an investigation can determine its outcome. We move fast to secure and preserve evidence, manage communications with regulators, and contain risks that could escalate into criminal charges or civil enforcement actions. By taking control early, we protect both legal and reputational interests.
Regulatory & Agency Experience
Our attorneys bring decades of experience dealing with federal and state regulators, including the DOJ, SEC, FINRA, FTC, and IRS. We understand how these agencies investigate, what strategies they employ, and how to counter their tactics. This allows us to anticipate challenges and position our clients for the most favorable resolution.
Proactive Internal Investigations
When potential issues arise inside an organization, we conduct thorough, confidential internal investigations. These reviews uncover the facts, strengthen compliance measures, and demonstrate accountability to regulators. Taking proactive steps often reduces penalties and can prevent regulators from pursuing criminal or civil actions against the company or its executives.
Strategic Defense & Negotiation
Each case demands a customized approach. Whether negotiating with prosecutors, seeking to dismiss charges before trial, or preparing a vigorous courtroom defense, we craft strategies that align with the client’s business goals and personal interests. Our goal is always to minimize exposure, resolve disputes efficiently, and safeguard both corporate and individual reputations.
Awards & Recognition










GOOD Based on 18 reviews Posted on Marcus HawkinsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great lawyer firm. I used them for my slip and fall case, along with my vehicle accident case. Both cases were very successfulPosted on Jonathan OkomoTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Absolutely amazing group of attorneys, helped me understand everything, every step of the way. Im very pleased with the resultsPosted on sade sullivanTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had an incredible experience with TKST Law. Maryama and her team were absolutely amazing, professional, supportive, and truly dedicated. Mohammad did an outstanding job during my negotiations and helped me get even more than I expected. I’m beyond grateful for their hard work and highly recommend them!Posted on Jennifer Lynn DuncanTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I'm sharing this review on behalf of a friend who is too distraught to post it themself. I have documentation of proof of all of this in case the company wants to refute any of it... I am extremely disappointed with the service I received from Thomas Kennedy Sampson & Tompkins, LLP. After working with them for two months, I still have no solutions or progress toward settling my case. From the beginning, I was only connected with a paralegal (Maryama Swindell) who seemed unable to move my case forward. While she was vacationing in Spain, I was suffering over the holidays - losing my job & home from a fatal accident. Despite repeated attempts to get in touch with an actual attorney who could assist me, I was consistently met with excuses or delays. I felt like my case wasn’t taken seriously, and there was a lack of communication and transparency throughout the entire process. I trusted this firm to provide the legal expertise and support I needed because they were referred to me, but instead, it felt like my time was wasted. If you are looking for a firm that will actively work on your case and keep you informed, I would NOT recommend Thomas Kennedy Sampson & Tompkins, LLP. Unfortunately, my experience left me feeling frustrated and without the legal resolution I was seeking and I had to fire them to find another law firm.Posted on Bill BigsbyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Horrible law firm. I personal would never use them for any representation. Staff is rude and unprofessional.Posted on J.GilmanTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I served as a juror on a case that Woody tried and he did a great job. From the beginning, he basically ran the courtroom, was very engaging, personable, and all the jurors liked him. Kristal was also impressive and it was a pleasure to watch them work.Posted on Paula ColemanTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent legal services!!
White Collar & Investigations FAQs
What is white collar crime?
White collar crime refers to non-violent financial crimes such as fraud, embezzlement, insider trading, bribery, or money laundering, typically committed in business or government settings.
What agencies investigate white collar crimes?
Common agencies include the Department of Justice (DOJ), Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and state-level enforcement bodies.
How does TKST defend against white collar charges?
We focus on early intervention, aggressive investigation, and building evidence-based defenses while also exploring opportunities for negotiation and resolution with regulators.
Can internal investigations help prevent charges?
Yes. Conducting internal investigations allows companies to identify potential issues, take corrective action, and sometimes avoid or reduce penalties from regulators.
What are the risks for executives in white collar cases?
Executives may face personal liability, criminal charges, financial penalties, and reputational harm, making skilled defense critical.
Why choose TKST for white collar defense?
Our attorneys combine courtroom strength, regulatory insight, and discretion to defend businesses and executives against high-stakes investigations and charges.
