Hampton Roads Embezzlement Penalties
Virginia law enforcement and prosecutors treat embezzlement as a serious crime throughout the state. Many cases are felonies, and as a result, Hampton Roads embezzlement penalties tend to be severe.
If you were accused of embezzlement, reach out to a qualified criminal defense attorney for assistance. A conviction could have a serious impact on your future, so you should leave your defense up to the experts. Call today to schedule a case review.
Legal Penalties for Embezzlement
Hampton Roads embezzlement penalties depend on the amount of money involved. Embezzlement of more than $200 is a felony, and it is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Additionally, a person convicted of embezzlement would be responsible for any money that was taken.
If the embezzlement is less than $200, it is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail.
Immediate Consequences of an Arrest
If a person is arrested for embezzlement, they will probably lose their job. An individual accused of a crime also has to deal with people asking them about this case.
Long-Term Effects of a Conviction in Hampton Roads
If a person is convicted of embezzlement of more than $200, they will have a felony conviction on their record. A felony conviction can make it difficult to get a job. A convicted felon also would not be able to vote until their rights have been restored, and they will not be able to possess a firearm until their rights have been restored.
Even if the conviction is for a misdemeanor, crimes that involve stealing are taken very seriously. A misdemeanor conviction could still limit the person’s ability to get future employment.
Factors Which Could Increase the Penalties
The statutory guide for embezzlement is zero to 20 years in person, so a person cannot get more than 20 years. In terms of the actual penalties an individual will receive, the courts look at multiple factors, such as:
- How much was embezzled
- How many instances over how long of a period
- Whether planning was involved
- The identity of the alleged victim
- If the accused person pleaded guilty
- If the defendant has made or plans to make restitution
Possible Defenses in an Embezzlement Case
A defense attorney could use any number of defenses in an embezzlement case, depending on the facts and circumstances. For example, one common defense is that a person did not embezzle. Perhaps the individual acted properly and had the authorization to do exactly what they did. Maybe this is a case of mistaken identity, and somebody else was responsible for appropriating those funds.
When building a defense, the first step for many cases is establishing the terms of the agreement that allowed access to this money. A defense attorney may want to explain why the individual had the money and show that they were using the money properly. A person could also use evidence such as a financial record to show that they have not misappropriated any funds.
Contacting a Hampton Roads Embezzlement Attorney for Assistance
If you were charged with embezzlement, consult with an experienced lawyer as soon as you can. A defense attorney has the experience needed to explain your circumstances to prosecutors and juries and help you avoid the most severe Hampton Roads embezzlement penalties. They could stand by you and fight on your behalf during every step of the process.
