Though all theft is wrong and punishable in the court of law, embezzlement charges are particularly serious. Essentially, embezzlement is a type of white-collar crime that occurs when someone trusted with access to accounts or funds illegally takes that money for his or her personal gain. If you are facing embezzlement charges, you must read on and reach out to our experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorney to learn more about how our firm can help you. Here are some of the questions you may have:
What are the penalties for embezzlement in New Jersey?
If you are charged with embezzlement, you cannot afford to go through the criminal justice system alone. You are currently facing jail time and serious fines. However, an attorney can help you fight them. The consequences of an embezzlement charge in New Jersey are as follows:
- For stolen property valued at less than $200 (disorderly persons offense): Up to 6 months in jail, as well as a $1,000 fine, or double the amount the victim lost in the theft (whichever is the greater amount)
- For stolen property valued between $200-$500 (fourth-degree crime): Up to 18 months in prison, as well as a fine of up to $10,000, or double the amount the victim lost in the theft (whichever is greater)
- For stolen property valued between $500-$75,000 (third-degree crime): Up to 5 years in prison, as well as a fine of up to $15,000, or double the amount the victim lost in the theft
- For stolen property valued at $75,000 or more (second-degree crime): Up to 10 years in prison, as well as a $150,000, or double the amount the victim lost as a result of the theft
How can I defend myself against an embezzlement charge?
Fortunately, with the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney, you can challenge embezzlement charges; you do not have to take them and plead guilty. Though various potential defenses will depend on your specific case, some of the basic defenses against embezzlement claims are as follows:
- You did not realize that you were illegally taking the property
- You had reasonable or implied consent to take the property without asking
- You accidentally mishandled money due to a misunderstanding; this is frequently the case for those in charge of managing elderly people’s funds
Our firm is ready to tenaciously fight for your rights to keep you free of a criminal record–all you have to do is ask.
Contact our experienced New Jersey firm
Thomas DeMarco & Associates, LLC is an experienced Camden County criminal defense law firm located in Mt. Ephraim, New Jersey. We understand how potentially damaging a criminal can be, which is why we pride ourselves in our willingness to fight for our client’s rights. Our firm handles all criminal matters and is ready to provide you with our knowledgeable legal counsel. Do not hesitate to contact our firm to discuss your legal situation.
