Typically, embezzlement may occur when a person takes control of another person or entity’s money or property for one’s own use without consent from the owner. It is distinguished from ordinary theft by virtue of the money or property being entrusted to the alleged embezzler’s care. An embezzlement offense often involves an employee or service provider relationship.
An embezzlement charge is serious and a conviction for such an offense may significantly harm your future employment prospects—not to mention, land you in severe legal trouble in the meantime. The legal system in Palm Beach Gardens may quickly become frustrating, and without a dedicated Palm Beach Gardens embezzlement defense Lawyer from Leifert & Leifert’s help, you may struggle to understand the charge and how it may be treated in the court. An experienced criminal Attorney could help you navigate through difficult legal channels and stand up for your rights in court.
Understanding an Embezzlement Charge
Some embezzlement offenses may be charged as misdemeanors if the incident regards property of modest value. For theft of property worth less than $300, the Prosecution may apply only a Misdemeanor charge. The penalty for such a conviction may include one year in jail and a fine of $1,000.
An embezzlement that qualifies as a Felony may include a monetary asset or property value of:
- $300 or more, but less than $5,000
- $5,000 or more, but less than $10,000
- $10,000 or more, but less than $20,000
Other items that are commonly embezzled may include:
- A will, codicil, or any other testamentary instruments
- A firearm
- A motor vehicle, with some exceptions
- A farm animal of a significant value
The penalties for embezzlement charges may vary significantly from case to case since sentences and fines generally increase as the value of the property increases. Property taken during a government-declared state of emergency may result in 30 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines. An embezzlement defense Attorney in Palm Beach Gardens could elaborate in greater detail about the nature of your specific charge and how a potential court case might play out.
Potential Defenses
While the effectiveness of a valid legal defense typically varies from case to case, certain defenses may strengthen yours more than others. In some cases, you could claim that you honestly believed the property you are accused of embezzling was under your ownership, and you did not intentionally deprive another person or entity of its value.
You could also present evidence showing that the owner of the property gave consent or that they transferred ownership rights before the alleged incident. Regardless of the specific circumstances, a Palm Beach Gardens embezzlement Lawyer at Leifert & Leifert could help you solidify your defensive strategy and execute it effectively in court.
How a Palm Beach Gardens Embezzlement Attorney Could Help
The courtroom may be a frustrating and confusing place, especially for a person who does not have adequate or experienced legal representation. If you are facing an embezzlement charge of any degree, you could strongly benefit from the legal guidance of a dedicated Palm Beach Gardens embezzlement Lawyer.
Legal decisions can have lasting ramifications, so understanding different options and strategies for your case may be helpful. Making sure that a potential legal defense is both valid and effective can significantly influence the direction of your case, and an accomplished defense Attorney from the Law Offices of Leifert & Leifert could help build a successful defense against your embezzlement charge. Call today to schedule a free consultation and case review.
