White-collar crimes encompass nonviolent criminal activities driven by financial motives. Rather than resorting to physical force or direct threats, offenders typically employ deceptive schemes to defraud victims of their assets, in contrast to the overt methods seen in traditional robberies. Nonetheless, the impact of white-collar crimes can be substantial, leading to significant financial losses and a breach of trust for victims.
Given the gravity with which prosecutors handle such offenses and the severe potential repercussions under Virginia law, seeking legal counsel from a qualified Virginia embezzlement lawyer could be crucial in safeguarding your interests.
Embezzlement, a form of white-collar crime, distinguishes itself from other types of theft due to the perpetrator’s initial lawful possession of the assets in question. While theft involves the unauthorized taking of someone else’s property or funds, embezzlement occurs when an individual entrusted with managing or holding such assets decides to embezzle them for personal gain permanently. For instance, theft happens when a customer removes money from a store register. Embezzlement happens when a store employee authorized to handle cash register funds takes a portion of that money.
For embezzlement to take place, there needs to be a level of trust between individuals, enabling the embezzler to gain access to the money or property involved.
Typical Embezzlement Cases in Virginia
In Virginia, the consequences for embezzlement convictions vary depending on the value of the stolen money or property. Additionally, if the embezzlement scheme defrauds the federal government, it may be prosecuted as a federal crime with its own set of potential consequences.
State Charge for Embezzlement Less Than $200 Value:
- Up to one year in jail
- Up to $2,500 in fines
- Restitution
- Probation
State Charge for Embezzlement $200 or More:
- Minimum of one year in prison, up to 20 years
- Up to $2,500 in fines
- Restitution
- Probation
Federal Charge:
- Up to 30 years in federal prison
- Up to $250,000 in fines (or the amount embezzled, if greater)
Get in Touch With an Embezzlement Defense Lawyer
If you’re entangled in legal proceedings for embezzlement or another white-collar offense, don’t hesitate to reach out to our seasoned Virginia embezzlement lawyers promptly. They’ll quickly begin crafting your defense strategy. Depending on the specifics of your case, an embezzlement conviction could mean substantial financial loss and incarceration. A skilled criminal defense lawyer can assess your situation, devise a strong defense, and engage in negotiations with the prosecutor to minimize or eliminate these repercussions.
Embezzlement cases are intricate and often demand thorough investigation for an effective defense. Thus, it’s crucial to seek guidance from a Virginia embezzlement lawyer well-versed in handling embezzlement and other white-collar crimes.