Dallas Embezzlement Attorney

Defending Clients Charged With Embezzlement in Texas

At Palmer Perlstein, we understand the devastating consequences that embezzlement charges can have on individuals and their reputations. Embezzlement is a serious offense that can result in severe penalties and lifelong repercussions. If you or someone you know is facing embezzlement charges in Texas, having a skilled and experienced legal team by your side is crucial to protect your rights and defend your case.

What Is Embezzlement?

Embezzlement refers to unlawfully misappropriating funds or property entrusted to an individual in a position of trust, such as an employee or a fiduciary. This offense typically involves diversifying funds for personal gain without the owner’s consent. Embezzlement cases can vary in complexity, ranging from small-scale incidents within a company to large-scale financial schemes involving significant amounts of money.

Texas law takes embezzlement charges seriously and has specific statutes to address such offenses. The prosecution must prove that the defendant intentionally and knowingly misappropriated the funds or property entrusted to them without the owner’s consent and with the intent to deprive the owner of their property permanently.

Call Palmer Perlstein today at 469-966-7614 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our embezzlement attorney in Dallas!

What Are the Penalties for Embezzlement in Texas?

The penalties for embezzlement in Texas depend on the value of the property or funds misappropriated. Generally, embezzlement is categorized as theft under Texas law, and the severity of the offense is determined by the amount involved:

Less than $2,500: Embezzlement involving property or funds valued at less than $2,500 is considered a Class C misdemeanor. This offense carries a fine of up to $500.
$2,500 to $30,000: Embezzlement involving property or funds valued between $2,500 and $30,000 is a state jail felony. It is punishable by a prison sentence ranging from 180 days to two years and a fine of up to $10,000.
$30,000 to $150,000: Embezzlement involving property or funds valued between $30,000 and $150,000 is a third-degree felony. A conviction can result in a prison sentence ranging from two to ten years and a fine of up to $10,000.
$150,000 to $300,000: Embezzlement involving property or funds valued between $150,000 and $300,000 is a second-degree felony. The penalties include imprisonment for two to twenty years and a fine of up to $10,000.
$300,000 or more: Embezzlement involving property or funds valued at $300,000 or more is a first-degree felony. A conviction carries a prison sentence ranging from five to 99 years or life imprisonment and a fine of up to $10,000.

Notably, these penalties can be enhanced if the defendant has a prior criminal record or if the embezzlement involves a specific type of property, such as public funds or assets from a nonprofit organization.

Defenses to Embezzlement Charges

Building a strong defense strategy is crucial when facing embezzlement charges in Texas. At Palmer Perlstein, our experienced criminal defense attorneys will thoroughly investigate your case, evaluate the evidence against you, and craft a defense tailored to your circumstances. Some common defenses to embezzlement charges include:

Lack of Intent: Embezzlement requires the intent to permanently deprive the owner of the property. If we can show that you did not have the necessary intent or intent to permanently deprive the owner, it can be a strong defense. We will meticulously analyze your case’s facts and circumstances to demonstrate any lack of intent.
Lack of Knowledge: In some cases, individuals may unknowingly come into possession of misappropriated funds or property. If you had no knowledge that the funds or property were obtained unlawfully or that you were not authorized to possess them, we can argue that you lacked the requisite knowledge for embezzlement.
Mistaken Identity: Mistaken identity is a defense strategy that asserts you were wrongfully accused of embezzlement. We will thoroughly investigate the evidence, including surveillance footage, witness testimonies, and any other relevant information, to establish that you were not the person responsible for the embezzlement.
Duress or Coercion: If you were forced or coerced into participating in the embezzlement scheme under threat of harm or other forms of coercion, we could argue that you were a victim rather than a willing participant. This defense relies on proving that you acted under duress and had no choice but to comply.
Insufficient Evidence: Challenging the prosecution’s evidence is critical to any criminal defense strategy. We will scrutinize the evidence against you, including financial records, documents, and witness statements, to identify any weaknesses, inconsistencies, or lack of conclusive proof. If the prosecution cannot establish your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, we will fight to have the charges dismissed or reduced.

Contact Our Dallas Embezzlement Attorney Today

Embezzlement charges in Texas can have serious and long-lasting consequences. If you or someone you know is facing embezzlement allegations, seeking the guidance of skilled legal professionals specializing in criminal defense is essential. At Palmer Perlstein, we have a proven track record of successfully defending individuals against embezzlement charges. We will diligently protect your rights, navigate the complexities of the legal system, and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.