Portsmouth Embezzlement Lawyer

Fighting Against Embezzlement Charges in Virginia

Embezzlement is a serious crime in Virginia and can lead to serious penalties. At Kozak & Davis, P.C., we can work hard to reduce your charges or negotiate for a plea deal that will have the least impact on your future. We know how to work with prosecutors to get the best possible outcome for our clients. If you or someone you know is facing embezzlement charges, our embezzlement attorneys in Portsmouth are ready to stand by your side and defend your rights.

Call Kozak & Davis, P.C. today at (757) 222-2224 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our embezzlement attorney in Portsmouth.

What is Embezzlement?

Embezzlement is considered a white-collar crime that involves the misappropriation of funds or property entrusted to an individual's care, typically in a professional or financial setting. This criminal act occurs when a person, who has been given access to assets, uses them for personal gain without authorization or consent. It's important to understand that embezzlement can take various forms, such as:

• Corporate Embezzlement: This often occurs within a business or corporation when an employee, manager, or executive misuses funds, diverts assets or engages in fraudulent activities to benefit themselves personally.
• Government Embezzlement: In this scenario, individuals working within government agencies or offices misappropriate public funds, property, or resources for personal use.
• Non-Profit Embezzlement: Even charitable organizations are not immune to embezzlement. Individuals within non-profits can embezzle funds donated to these organizations, ultimately harming their noble causes.
• Embezzlement by an Agent or Trustee: Agents, trustees, and professionals entrusted with financial responsibilities can also embezzlement by siphoning off funds for their benefit.

What are the Penalties for Embezzlement in Virginia?

The penalties for embezzlement in Virginia vary depending on the value of the misappropriated funds or property. Virginia law classifies embezzlement as a larceny crime, and the penalties are as follows:

• Petit Larceny: This applies when the value of the misappropriated property or funds is less than $200. It is classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor and can result in up to 12 months in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,500.
• Grand Larceny: If the value of the embezzled property or funds is $200 or more, it is considered grand larceny, which is a felony. The penalties for grand larceny may include imprisonment of up to 20 years and fines of up to $2,500.

Defenses Against Embezzlement Charges

Some common defenses against embezzlement charges may include:

• Lack of Intent: Embezzlement requires intent to misappropriate funds or property. If it can be demonstrated that the accused had no intent to commit the crime, it can serve as a strong defense.
• Mistaken Identity: Individuals are sometimes wrongly accused due to mistaken identity. We can investigate the evidence to determine if you were misidentified.
• Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must be able to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If there is insufficient evidence, we can challenge the case and work to have the charges dropped or reduced.
• Consent or Authorization: If you had consent or authorization to access the funds or property in question, it is essential to prove that you acted within the law's bounds.
• Entrapment or Coercion: If you were coerced or entrapped into committing the crime, it can be a valid defense.

Contact Our Embezzlement Attorney in Portsmouth Today

Facing embezzlement charges can be daunting, but you don't have to go through it alone. The legal team at Kozak & Davis, P.C. is here to provide the legal guidance and support you need. We understand the intricacies of embezzlement cases and are committed to fighting for your rights. Contact us today, and let our Portsmouth embezzlement lawyer help you navigate through this challenging time.

Contact Kozak & Davis, P.C. today to get started with our Portsmouth embezzlement lawyer.