Round Rock Embezzlement Lawyer

Embezzlement is considered a white-collar crime and is often committed by employees who have access to company funds or assets. If you have been accused of embezzlement, you could be facing serious criminal charges and penalties, including imprisonment and fines. At Pennington Law, PLLC, we understand the complexities of embezzlement cases and can help you navigate the legal process.

Call Pennington Law today at (512) 877-4384 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our embezzlement attorney in Round Rock.

What is Embezzlement?

Embezzlement involves misappropriating funds or property entrusted to an individual's care, typically by an employer, organization, or financial institution. This offense occurs when a person who has access to these assets uses them for their personal gain without authorization. Embezzlement can take various forms, such as:

• Financial Embezzlement: This type of embezzlement involves altering financial records, diverting funds, or stealing assets directly from the company or organization.
• Property Embezzlement: Property embezzlement refers to the theft or unauthorized use of physical assets, including equipment, supplies, or company vehicles.
• Employee Theft: Employees may embezzle funds or assets through deceptive practices, such as manipulating payroll, exploiting expense accounts, or stealing company property.
• Client Funds Misappropriation: Professionals in fields like law or finance may embezzle client funds held in trust accounts for personal use.

What are the Penalties for Embezzlement in Texas?

Penalties for embezzlement in Texas can vary based on the value of the misappropriated assets and other factors. It is essential to understand the potential consequences associated with embezzlement convictions:

• Misdemeanor Embezzlement: For cases involving assets valued at less than $2,500, the offense is typically charged as a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $500.
• State Jail Felony: Embezzlement of assets valued between $1,500 and $20,000 is classified as a state jail felony, which can lead to a jail sentence of 180 days to 2 years and fines up to $10,000.
• Third-Degree Felony: If the value of the embezzled assets is between $20,000 and $100,000, the offense is charged as a third-degree felony, carrying a prison term of 2 to 10 years and fines of up to $10,000.
• Second-Degree Felony: Embezzlement involving assets worth between $100,000 and $200,000 is considered a second-degree felony, resulting in a prison sentence of 2 to 20 years and fines up to $10,000.
• First-Degree Felony: The most severe embezzlement cases, with assets valued at over $200,000, are charged as first-degree felonies, carrying a potential prison sentence of 5 to 99 years and fines up to $10,000.

Defenses Against Embezzlement Charges

Some common defenses against embezzlement charges may include:

• Lack of Intent: Embezzlement charges require proving criminal intent. If we can show that you did not have the intention to embezzle the assets, your case may be dismissed or acquitted.
• Ownership or Authorization: If you had legal ownership or authorization to use the assets in question, this can be a strong defense against embezzlement allegations.
• Mistaken Identity: In some cases, individuals are wrongly accused due to mistaken identity. We can investigate and present evidence to establish your innocence.
• Duress: If you were forced or threatened to commit embezzlement under duress, this may be a valid defense.
• Insufficient Evidence: We can challenge the prosecution's evidence, including discrepancies in financial records or witness credibility, to weaken the case against you.