Melbourne Embezzlement Lawyer
Defending Those Who Have Been Accused Of Embezzlement in Florida
At The Law Offices of Bryan J. McCarthy, we provide top-notch legal representation in embezzlement cases. Our Melbourne embezzlement attorneys are dedicated to defending the rights of individuals facing embezzlement charges in Florida. If you are facing embezzlement charges, we are here to help you navigate the legal complexities and protect your rights.
Call The Law Offices of Bryan J. McCarthy today at (321) 248-7742 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our embezzlement attorney in Melbourne.
What is Embezzlement?
Embezzlement is considered a white-collar crime that involves the misappropriation or theft of funds or property entrusted to an individual's care, typically in a position of trust or responsibility. This crime occurs when someone who has been entrusted with another person's or organization's assets intentionally converts or misuses those assets for personal gain without their consent. Embezzlement cases often involve employees, financial officers, or individuals in positions of power within an organization.
Embezzlement can take various forms, including:
- Misappropriation of Funds: This involves diverting money entrusted to an individual's care for personal use, such as writing unauthorized checks, transferring funds to personal accounts, or using company funds for personal expenses.
- Manipulation of Records: Embezzlers may alter financial records or engage in fraudulent accounting practices to conceal their activities and make it appear that funds or assets are properly accounted for.
- Property Theft: Embezzlement isn't limited to money; it can also involve the theft of physical assets or property owned by an organization.
- Payroll Fraud: This embezzlement involves inflating one's salary, creating fictitious employees, or manipulating timesheets to receive excess compensation.
What are the Penalties for Embezzlement in Florida?
Embezzlement is a serious offense in Florida, and the penalties can vary based on the value of the misappropriated assets and other factors. The severity of the penalty will largely depend on the degree of embezzlement involved:
- Petit Theft: Penalties may include up to 60 days in jail and fines that may reach up to $500.
- Grand theft of the third degree (assets valued between $750 and $20,000): Punishable by up to 5 years in prison and fines that may reach up to $5,000.
- Grand theft of the second degree (assets valued between $20,000 and $100,000): Penalties may include up to 15 years in prison and fines that can reach up to $10,000.
- Grand theft of the first degree (assets valued at $100,000 or more): This is a felony offense that holds a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and fines that may reach up to $10,000.
- White-Collar Crime Enhancements: In some cases, embezzlement may be subject to additional penalties if it involves certain aggravating factors, such as targeting vulnerable victims or involving substantial sums of money.
- Restitution: In addition to criminal penalties, individuals convicted of embezzlement may be required to make restitution to the victim, reimbursing them for the value of the misappropriated assets.
Defenses Against Embezzlement Charges
Some common defenses against embezzlement charges may include:
- Lack of Intent: Embezzlement charges require the prosecution to prove you intended to steal or misappropriate funds or assets. It can be a viable defense if we can demonstrate that you did not have the necessary intent.
- Mistaken Identity: In some cases, individuals may be wrongfully accused due to mistaken identity. We can investigate and present evidence to establish that you were not responsible for the embezzlement.
- Procedural Errors: We can scrutinize your case's investigative and legal procedures to identify any errors or violations of your rights. If we find any, we can argue for the dismissal of charges.
- Lack of Evidence: For conviction, the prosecution will need to present sufficient evidence of your guilt. If we can challenge the credibility or sufficiency of the evidence, it may lead to a favorable outcome.
Contact Our Melbourne Embezzlement Attorney Today
The consequences of an embezzlement conviction can be life-altering, affecting your personal and professional future. At The Law Offices of Bryan J. McCarthy, we are dedicated to delivering aggressive legal representation to individuals facing embezzlement charges. Our Melbourne embezzlement lawyers will work tirelessly to build a strong defense and pursue the best possible outcome for your case. Your future is too important to leave to chance; let us fight for your rights.
Contact The Law Offices of Bryan J. McCarthy today to get started with our Melbourne embezzlement lawyer.