Are you facing charges of misusing funds entrusted to you as part of your job? This is embezzlement, and it is a type of white-collar crime that is actually a serious federal offense. If convicted of this crime, you could face years behind bars and other consequences that may affect your life long-term, including loss of future job opportunities. The federal government takes breach of fiduciary duty seriously, and it will prosecute your case to the fullest extent of the law.
If you are facing these charges, the time to act is now. You will benefit from the guidance of an attorney who understands the law and knows how to effectively navigate the criminal justice system. The stakes are high, and it is essential not to overlook or underestimate the serious nature of charges involving alleged financial crimes.
What is it?
Embezzlement is most likely to happen in situations where one party is trusted to take funds provided by another party for a specific purpose. For example, embezzlement can happen when a financial advisor entrusted with savings to expand a client’s portfolio takes assets for personal use. It can take many different forms, but it includes any activity that involves the misuse of funds or assets intended for something else.
Whether the embezzlement is a relatively small action or a large scheme that involves millions of dollars, it is a serious crime. Individuals trusted with money or access to accounts as part of their job must use those funds appropriately. Ponzi schemes are embezzlement operations, but they can also be as simple as a retail store clerk taking money paid by customers from the register.
How can you fight it?
If the alleged embezzlement scheme to which you are connected is complex or involves substantial sums of money, you will likely face federal charges if the investigation produces enough evidence. You have rights at every step of this process, including the right to defend your interests during the investigation stage. You do not have to meet with investigators or provide any information to law enforcement without an attorney.
You may find it helpful to seek defense counsel as soon as possible. While the case against you is serious, you can fight back and seek the most beneficial outcome to your situation. An assessment of your case with a Mississippi attorney can help you understand the specific defense options available to you.
