“Never judge someone’s character based on the words of another.” – Unknown
Being accused of embezzling from your company is a serious and stressful situation, especially for an executive who may have little to no knowledge of criminal law.
The fear and uncertainty about what lies ahead can be overwhelming, and you probably have no idea what steps you are supposed to take in order to protect yourself, your family and your future.
It’s time to take a deep breath. And keep reading.
- Recognize the specific type of embezzlement you’re accused of to prepare your defense effectively.
- Take immediate action and stay calm, but avoid discussing the case without legal counsel.
- An experienced criminal defense attorney can provide expert advice, a strong defense strategy, and essential support.
If you’ve been accused of a crime like company embezzlement, understanding your next steps is going to make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
So take another breath. And let’s dive in.
Understanding Embezzlement: What You Need to Know About Company Theft
Embezzlement is a form of theft that involves the misappropriation of funds or property entrusted to your care, typically in a professional setting.
More simply put?
Being accused of embezzlement means someone thinks you have taken money or assets from a company that don’t belong to you.
Some of the most common types of embezzlement include:
- Payroll Fraud: Manipulating payroll to divert funds to yourself or someone else that wasn’t due.
- Invoice Fraud: Creating fake invoices or inflating existing ones to siphon off company money.
- Expense Reimbursement Fraud: Submitting false or exaggerated expense reports to receive unwarranted reimbursements.
- Asset Misappropriation: Stealing or misusing company assets, such as equipment or inventory.
- Financial Statement Fraud: Falsifying financial records to cover up theft or mislead stakeholders.
Understanding these types of embezzlement can help you recognize the specific accusations you might be facing and prepare a more effective defense.
Just remember: these accusations often arise from misunderstandings, errors, or malicious intent by others.
It’s crucial that you understand the nature of the charges against you, who is making them, and the potential consequences that may result.
Don’t let an embezzlement charge ruin your career or change the course of your life. Shying away from an embezzlement charge can make it worse.
Approach these charges with your eyes wide open and armed with the tools you need to dispute them.
Here’s how:
- Stay Calm and Do Not Panic: The first and most important step is to remain calm. Panicking can lead to rash decisions that may harm your case. Take a deep breath and focus on gathering your thoughts.
- Do Not Communicate Without Legal Counsel: Avoid discussing the accusations with colleagues, superiors, or anyone else without your attorney present. Anything you say can be used against you in court. Politely decline to answer questions and state that you need to consult with your attorney first.
- Preserve Evidence: Gather and preserve any documents, emails, or other evidence that may support your innocence. This includes financial records, correspondence, and any other relevant information. Do not alter or destroy any evidence, as this can be seen as an admission of guilt.
- Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney: As soon as possible, reach out to an experienced criminal defense attorney who specializes in white-collar crimes. An attorney can provide you with the guidance and representation you need to protect your rights and build a strong defense.
High Stakes Call for High Skill: Why You Need Geigle | Morales on Your Side
There are few things more frightening than being accused of a crime.
And when the accusations threaten to ruin your reputation, your career and even your personal life, you need people in your corner who can fight for you.
At Geigle | Morales, this is what we are trained to do.
Our attorneys understand what you’re up against. We are committed to providing you with expert legal advice, a robust defense strategy, and unwavering support throughout your case.
Here’s how:
- We Provide Expert Legal Advice: Understanding the intricacies of criminal law and the specific charges against you is essential. Your attorney can explain your rights and options in clear terms.
- We Develop a Strong Defense Strategy: A tailored defense strategy based on the specifics of your case can significantly improve your chances of a favorable outcome.
- We Represent You in Court: Your attorney will advocate on your behalf in court, presenting evidence and arguments to support your innocence.
- We Negotiate with Prosecutors: Skilled negotiation can lead to reduced charges or penalties, helping you avoid the most severe consequences.
If you’ve been accused of company theft, don’t wait—reach out to Geigle | Morales for a free consultation.
Don’t go it alone. Let our lawyers give you the clarity and support you need to navigate this challenging time.
