Amarillo Embezzlement Lawyer

Experienced Defense Against Embezzlement Charges in Texas

In today's complex financial landscape, accusations of embezzlement can severely affect individuals and businesses if you are facing embezzlement charges in Texas, having a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer on your side. The Law Offices of D. Chris Hesse is your steadfast ally in navigating the intricacies of embezzlement law.

Call the Law Offices of D. Chris Hesse today at (806) 350-6785 or contact the firm online to request a consultation with our embezzlement attorney in Amarillo.

What is Embezzlement?

Embezzlement is classified as a white-collar crime that involves the misappropriation of theft or funds assigned to someone's care, often an employee, for personal gain. It's characterized by the breach of trust between the accused and the victim, usually an employer or organization. The key element in embezzlement cases is the fraudulent conversion of assets, which means the accused takes rightful possession of the assets but uses them for unauthorized purposes. Examples of embezzlement include siphoning funds from company accounts, altering financial records, or diverting assets for personal use.

What are the Consequences of Embezzlement in Texas?

Embezzlement is a serious offense under Texas law, carrying significant legal penalties that can impact your personal and professional life.The severity of penalties depends on the value of the embezzled assets:

• Less than $100: This is a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by fines up to $500.
• $100 - $750: Classified as a Class B misdemeanor, it can lead to a jail term of up to 180 days and a fine of up to $2,000.
• $750 - $2,500: An offense falling in this range is a Class A misdemeanor, potentially resulting in up to a year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000.
• $2,500 - $30,000: This is a state jail felony, with the punishment ranging from 180 days to 2 years in a state jail facility, along with a fine of up to $10,000.
• $30,000 - $150,000: A third-degree felony, this level of embezzlement can lead to 2 to 10 years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $10,000.
• $150,000 - $300,000: Classified as a second-degree felony, it carries a prison sentence varying from 2 to 20 years, as well as fines of up to $10,000.
• $300,000 or more: Embezzling this value of assets constitutes a first-degree felony, which can result in 5 to 99 years in prison, as well as a fine of up to $10,000.

Defenses Against Embezzlement Charges

Being accused of embezzlement doesn't equate to guilt, and having a strong defense is essential to protect your rights and reputation. Common defenses against embezzlement charges may include:

• Lack of Intent: Proving embezzlement requires demonstrating intentional conversion of assets. If the defendant shows no intent to misappropriate funds, the charges may be challenged.
• Mistaken Identity: In some cases, individuals might be wrongly accused due to mistaken identity or miscommunication. Our attorneys meticulously investigate the evidence to establish the truth.
• Duress or Coercion: If the accused was forced or coerced into committing the alleged embezzlement, it might serve as a viable defense.
• Lack of Evidence: A strong defense can highlight gaps or weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, creating reasonable doubt regarding the defendant's guilt.

Contact Our Embezzlement Attorney in Amarillo

At Law Offices of D. Chris Hesse, our Amarillo embezzlement lawyer is committed to providing a strong defense and guiding you through the legal process. In the face of embezzlement accusations, having the right legal support can make all the difference. Trust Law Offices of D. Chris Hesse to stand by your side and advocate for your rights in these challenging times. Don't let embezzlement charges define your future. We'll work diligently to protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome for your case.

Contact the Law Offices of D. Chris Hesse today to get started with our Amarillo embezzlement lawyer.