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How Important is it to Get the Right Lawyer for an Embezzlement Case?

August 11, 2023

Embezzlement may not be a violent crime, but it is still a serious offense. If you have been accused of embezzlement in the state of Arizona, you could face heavy penalties, including prison time and fines. Additionally, if you are convicted, it could have severe repercussions on both your personal life and your professional future. Janet Altschuler, Tucson’s top embezzlement attorney for over 20 years, is here to explain the importance of choosing the right lawyer for an embezzlement case in Arizona. 

What is Embezzlement?

Embezzlement, often known as a ‘white-collar crime,’ is a crime relating to the world of finance. If someone has been accused of embezzlement, it means that they stole or used someone else’s property with the intent to deprive the owner after being entrusted with it. It is important to note that the accused’s permission often categorizes the crime. For example, fraud or larceny are crimes that also involve stolen funds, but the accused would not have had permission to handle the funds in the first place. By contrast, embezzlement occurs when an individual was entrusted with the management or handling of someone else’s funds and used them for their own personal ends. 

Examples of embezzlement can include taking money from a cash register, putting work checks in a personal bank account, creating fake employees for payroll with the intent of collecting an extra wage, taking bribes, or stealing money from one’s employer. If you have been accused of embezzlement, it’s essential to know exactly what actions led to accusation, so you can build the best possible defense. 

Penalties for Embezzlement in The State of Arizona

The state of Arizona takes embezzlement very seriously. If you are convicted of embezzlement, the penalties could be severe and even permanently life-altering. Depending on the value of the property or funds involved, embezzlement can be categorized as either a felony or a misdemeanor. Potential consequences could range from fines and restitutions to prison sentences. If convicted, you could also have a permanent criminal record. 

Examples of specific penalties for embezzlement in Arizona can include: 

  • Value over $25,000: Fine of $1,000 and/or 4 to 12.5 years in prison
  • Value of $4,000 to $25,000: Fine of $1,000 and/or 2.5 to 8.75 years in prison
  • Value of $3,000 to $4,000, or vehicle engine or transmission: Fine of $1,000 and/or 18 months to 3.75 years in jail
  • Value of $1,000 to $2,500 or firearm theft or animal for the purpose of animal fighting: Fine of $1,000 and/or six months to one year in prison 
  • Value of less than $1,000: Fine of up to $2,500, three years of probation and/or six months in prison

Possible Defenses for Embezzlement

A good defense attorney will be able to review the evidence and craft a strategic defense that can potentially reduce the charges or even lead to a dismissal. Some of the common defenses against embezzlement include a lack of intent, insufficient evidence, duress, and the claim that the accused had a rightful claim to the property. Each case is unique and requires an in-depth understanding of the law and the ability to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

The Importance of a Dedicated Attorney in Embezzlement Cases

If you have been accused of embezzlement, it is crucial to work with an experienced attorney like Janet Altschuler, who has an in-depth understanding of white-collar crimes. Given the severe implications of an embezzlement conviction, a competent defense attorney can mean the difference between freedom and a severe sentence with lifelong implications. 

Janet Altschuler brings a wealth of experience to every case. She has worked on criminal cases in the Tucson area for over 20 years, and she will carefully review every detail of your case to build a strong defense. 

Contact Embezzlement Attorney Janet Altschuler Today!

It is impossible to overstate the importance of working with the right attorney if you have been accused of embezzlement. Not only can a conviction cause you to lose your job, but it can also impact your personal life—and even keep you from finding reputable employment in the future. When you work with Janet Altschuler, you can be sure that you’re working with a seasoned professional. With over 2 decades of legal experience in the Tucson area, Janet Altschuler can help you build the best possible case in your defense. Contact her today to schedule an initial consultation to discuss your embezzlement case. 

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