Aggressive Defense Against Embezzlement Charges In Illinois
When facing allegations of embezzlement, the consequences can be severe, impacting your personal and professional life. At Pissetzky Law LLC, we recognize the gravity of embezzlement charges and are dedicated to providing relentless legal representation for individuals in Chicago and beyond. Our seasoned team of attorneys is well-versed in the complexities of embezzlement cases, offering strategic defense strategies tailored to each client’s unique situation.
Call Pissetzky Law LLC today at 312-239-8292 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our embezzlement attorney in Chicago!
What Is Embezzlement?
Embezzlement involves the act of stealing assets or properties that you were given the responsibility to handle. This could be stealing from your employer (employee theft) or exploiting and using insider knowledge for personal gain.
Embezzlement is a serious charge that can lead to stiff penalties if convicted. For effective and aggressive defense against your felony embezzlement charges at the state or federal level, consult our Chicago embezzlement attorneys at Pissetzky Law LLC. Having a skilled attorney and criminal defense firm on your side could be the difference between a good case result and a bad one.
We can handle complex embezzlement felony charges, including:
- Stealing funds directly from your employer
- Using company funds to write checks
- Hiding or misusing assets of a trust or clients
- Unethical use of funds by a public official
- With embezzlement charges, your reputation can be tainted even if the charges are dropped. You will need a team of skilled Chicago embezzlement lawyers to help you protect your future.
What Are The Penalties For Embezzlement In Illinois?
In Illinois, the penalties for embezzlement largely depend on the value and type of property taken and the victim of the alleged embezzlement.
The penalties for embezzlement in Illinois are as follows:
- Value under $500; victim is not a person: Class A misdemeanor; penalties can include up to $2,500 in fines and less than one year in prison
- Value under $500; victim is a person or value between $500 and $1,000; Class 3 felony; penalties include fines up to $25,000 and/or two to five years in prison
- Value between $10,000 and $100,000: Class 2 felony; penalties can include fines up to $25,000 and/or 3-7 years in prison
- Value between $100,000 and $500,000: Class 1 felony; punishable by fines up to $25,000 and/or four to 15 years in prison
- Value between $500,000 and $1 million: Class 1 felony; penalties include ineligibility for probation, fines up to $25,000, and/or four to 15 years in prison
- Value over $1 million: Class X felony; penalties can include fines up to $25,000 and/or six to 30 years in prison
Additionally, fines and prison time may be increased if embezzlement is committed in a school, church, or place of worship or involving government property. Penalties may also be more severe for those with prior convictions for theft or related crimes. If you are charged with theft by deception of at least $5,000 and the victim is 60 years old or older, you could face Class 2 felony charges, punishable by fines up to $25,000 and/or three to seven years in prison.
Illinois embezzlement is typically charged under the state’s general theft statute. In other words, embezzlement is considered a form of theft. Therefore, embezzlement charges must establish that the alleged embezzler had a fiduciary relationship with the alleged victim, that the alleged embezzler used this relationship to acquire either tangible or intangible property, and that the alleged embezzler obtained the property, ownership of the property, or transferred the property to another person for financial gain. Lastly, it must be shown that the embezzler acted intentionally and that any fiduciary gain was not accidental.
Defenses Against Embezzlement Charges
Mounting a robust defense is crucial when facing embezzlement allegations. At Pissetzky Law LLC, our attorneys explore various defense strategies tailored to the specifics of each case, including:
- Insufficient evidence: Challenging the prosecution’s ability to prove intent and lack of credible evidence.
- Lack of intent: Demonstrating that the accused did not intend to permanently deprive the rightful owner of the funds.
- Coerced confessions: Challenging confessions obtained under duress or coercion.
- Mistaken identity: Proving that the accused was not the individual involved in the embezzlement.
Contact Our Chicago Embezzlement Attorney Today
Defending against embezzlement charges requires a strategic and committed approach. At Pissetzky Law LLC, our accomplished legal team possesses extensive experience in formulating defense strategies tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. We grasp the intricacies inherent in embezzlement cases, dedicating ourselves tirelessly to safeguarding the rights and interests of our clients.
If you are confronted with embezzlement charges in Chicago or the nearby areas, avoid navigating the legal terrain alone. Depend on Pissetzky Law LLC to deliver the assertive representation you require. Reach out to us today for a confidential consultation, allowing us to advocate for your rights and strive for the optimal resolution of your case.
Contact Pissetzky Law LLC online today to meet with our embezzlement lawyer in Chicago!