McLean, VA Embezzlement Lawyer

Attorney Defending Against Charges of Embezzlement in McLean, Virginia

There are multiple types of theft offenses that you could face if you are accused of stealing money or property from someone else. In some cases, these charges may include accusations of embezzlement based on claims that you stole from an employer or someone else who trusted you to handle their money or property. In McLean, Virginia, where many people work in professional, financial, or government-related fields, accusations of embezzlement can have severe consequences. In these cases, you will need to make sure you have legal representation from an attorney who can help you determine your best options for defense.

At Noorishad Law, P.C., our criminal defense lawyer has a great deal of experience representing clients in cases involving theft, embezzlement, and fraud. He will carefully analyze the facts of your case, review the evidence, and develop a strategy to help prevent a conviction and minimize the consequences that could affect you. He strives to make the impossible possible when defending against criminal charges, and he will fight to ensure that you can resolve your case successfully and put these accusations behind you.

How Virginia Law Defines Embezzlement

Under Virginia Code § 18.2-111, embezzlement involves the theft or misappropriation of money or property that has been entrusted to a person by an employer or another party. A person who fraudulently uses, conceals, or disposes of property without the authorization of the owner could be charged with this offense.

Embezzlement is treated as larceny, and the penalties for a conviction will be the same as those that would apply for charges of petit larceny or grand larceny. The value of the property that was allegedly stolen, concealed, misused, or disposed of will determine the specific charges:

• Petit Larceny: An embezzlement offense involving less than $1,000 is usually classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor. The penalties for a conviction may include up to one year in jail and/or a maximum fine of $2,500.
• Grand Larceny: When embezzlement charges involve property valued at $1,000 or more, felony charges may apply. A conviction is punishable by one to 20 years in prison.

Examples of Situations That May Lead to Embezzlement Charges

Some common scenarios in which a person may be accused of embezzlement include:

• Misuse of Funds by an Employee: A person may be accused of transferring money from a company account into their personal account.
• Retail Cash Handling: A cashier or store employee may be accused of stealing cash from a register or taking other actions to take money. For example, a cashier may ring an item up at a large discount, collect the full retail price, and pocket the difference.
• Theft of Company Property: An employee may be charged with keeping business equipment for personal use or taking and selling property owned by their employer.
• Fiduciary Situations: A bookkeeper or financial officer may be accused of altering company records to cover unauthorized withdrawals that they have made.

To convict a person of embezzlement, the prosecution must not only prove that property was taken or misused, but also that these actions were taken with fraudulent intent. Honest mistakes, inadequate recordkeeping, or other actions may be improperly interpreted as criminal conduct. With help from our experienced attorney, you may be able to demonstrate that you did not intentionally commit embezzlement.

Collateral Consequences of an Embezzlement Conviction

In addition to the criminal penalties of a conviction for embezzlement, your life may be affected in many other ways. These may include:

• Immigration Consequences: Embezzlement may be classified as a crime involving moral turpitude. If you are not a U.S. citizen, a conviction could lead to deportation proceedings. You may also be prevented from obtaining citizenship, your you may not be allowed back into the United States after traveling to another country.
• Employment Barriers: Many employers conduct background checks before hiring employees. A conviction for embezzlement will show up in these background checks, and it may serve as a reason not to hire you.
• Professional Licensing Issues: If you work in a field that requires a professional license, an embezzlement conviction could lead to disciplinary action that may include the suspension or revocation of your license. A conviction on your record may also prevent you from obtaining a new license in the future or renewing an existing license.
• Financial and Housing Restrictions: If you have a criminal record, you may struggle to find a place to live or receive approval for a loan. Your opportunities for education and career advancement may also be limited.

Contact Our McLean Embezzlement Defense Attorney

When you have been accused of embezzlement, you will need to make sure you have legal representation during your case. To avoid or minimize the harsh penalties and collateral consequences that you may face, you can work with a skilled attorney to develop an effective defense strategy. At Noorishad Law, P.C., we can provide the legal help you need, and we will fight to protect your rights during your case. Contact our McLean, VA embezzlement defense lawyer today at 703-542-4500 to arrange a free consultation.