Baltimore Embezzlement Lawyer
Aggressive Defense Against Embezzlement Charges in Baltimore County
If you have been accused of, are being investigated for, or have been charged with stealing money from your employer, you must contact a skilled Baltimore embezzlement attorney as soon as possible. Before signing a confession or speaking with anyone, ensure you have a top-rated lawyer to protect your rights. Our attorneys have the experience and skills you need.
The lawyers at our Baltimore criminal defense firm have established a national reputation for providing outstanding criminal defense representation to individuals and corporations. Larry Nathans has been named one of the Best Lawyers in America in white- and non-white-collar criminal defense. Additionally, all of the partners at the firm have been recognized with selection to the Maryland Super Lawyers® list.
Are you facing embezzlement charges in Maryland? Call Nathans & Ripke LLP today at (410) 783-0272 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our embezzlement attorney in Baltimore!
What is Embezzlement?
Embezzlement is theft, specifically, any fraudulent appropriation of money or property entrusted to them, most usually from an employer. An individual can be charged with embezzlement regardless of whether or not the defendant kept the money or property for personal gain or transferred it to another party. Examples of embezzlement include:
- Intentionally overcharging a customer and keeping the difference
- Taking money directly from your employer
- Depositing vendor checks into a personal account
- Taking bribes
- Ponzi schemes
It’s important to note that those facing embezzlement criminal charges can also be charged in a civil court if the alleged wronged party wishes to bring civil charges. Additionally, enhanced efforts to investigate white collar crimes have recently increased federal embezzlement prosecutions. Punishments for those convicted have also intensified and may include heavy financial penalties and lengthy prison terms.
What are the Penalties for Embezzlement in Maryland?
- Petty theft of less than $100 - Jail time of up to 90 days with a fine of up to $500.
- Misdemeanor theft amount between $100 and $1,000 - Up to 18 months of incarceration and a fine up to $500.
- Felony theft amount between $1,000 and $10,000 - Up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine up to $10,000.
- Felony theft amount between $10,000 and $100,000 - Up to 15 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $15,000.
- Felony theft amount over $100,000 - up to 25 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $25,000.
Is Embezzlement a Felony?
Every state has different laws regarding the penalty for embezzlement. Most states punish embezzlement convictions based on the value or type of property that was embezzled or stolen. Being charged with embezzlement in Maryland can result in restitution and penalties such as fines and at least one year but up to five years in prison. At a minimum, embezzlement is considered a misdemeanor but a felony if the theft is equal to or greater than $10,000.
What To Do When Confronted With Embezzlement Charges
When an employer notices funds have gone missing, they will conduct a preliminary investigation to determine the extent of funds missing. If your employer suspects you are responsible, they will likely accuse you directly and try to intimidate you, hoping to get you to start talking or sign a confession. Before saying anything, you should retain a skilled Baltimore embezzlement lawyer.
Our adept criminal defense attorneys may be able to negotiate a resolution on your behalf without any charges being filed. In some cases, we have been able to convince an employer that they will have a greater chance of preserving their reputations and recovering their money if they agree to a settlement.
When early resolution is not possible in a white collar crime case, we draw on a team of expert resources, including forensic accountants and private investigators, to refute the charges against you.
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Contact Nathans & Ripke LLP today to schedule a consultation with our embezzlement lawyer in Baltimore!