Phoenix Embezzlement Attorney

Arizona Embezzlement Laws

The crime of embezzlement is broader than stolen money, it applies to any theft of property. The state of Arizona defines embezzlement as the crime of stealing all or small parts of property when they have been entrusted with monitoring or managing property. An individual with authorized access to another's property who takes advantage of that access for personal gain.

Some examples of acts that can be considered embezzlement include:

• An employee moving money from a business account to their own personal account
• An employee cashing customer checks and keeping them for him/herself
• Overbilling customers and pocketing the difference
• Cashing in a relative or child's Social Security check
• Forging checks and writing a company check to themselves

Typically embezzlement involves the repeated taking of small amounts over time, prosecutors often charge a person with multiple counts. Each count will result in prison time, which may have to be served consecutively. You should obtain legal representation as soon as possible.

Contact Suzuki Law Offices for a free consultation.

Penalties for Embezzlement in AZ

The crime of embezzlement carries very stiff penalties. The following are the penalties you could face if convicted of embezzlement:

Class 2 Felony

• 4 - 12.5 years sentence
• Fine: Up to $1,000 + surcharges

Class 3 Felony

• 2.5 - 8.75 years sentence
• Fine: Up to $1,000 + surcharges

Class 4 Felony

• 18 months to 3.75 years sentence
• Fine: $1,000 + surcharges

Class 5 Felony

• 9 months to 1.5 years sentence
• Fine: $1,000 + surcharges

Class 6 Felony

• 6 months to 1 year sentence
• Fine: $1,000 + surcharges

Class 1 Misdemeanor

• 6 months sentence
• 3 years of probation
• Fine: Up to $2,500 + surcharges

Potential Defenses to Embezzlement Charges

There are a variety of defenses that may be available for embezzlement charges:

• Lack of fiduciary duty
• Duress
• Lack of intent
• Incapacity
• Entrapment

An experienced attorney can help you create an effective defense aimed at disproving your embezzlement allegations.

Prompt Action Can Provide Many Benefits

Are you under investigation? Is your company about to be audited? Now is the time to obtain legal representation. Much work can be done in the early stages of a criminal case to lay the groundwork for a positive outcome. Our attorneys can advise you on how to respond to an investigation in a way that protects your right not to incriminate yourself. We can also begin building your defense through proactive means. Get legal help today. Building a Strong and Effective Defense

Our attorneys have years of experience in cases involving white collar crimes, including embezzlement and employee theft. When representing you, we will immediately begin your defense effort. We can retain experts in appropriate disciplines, such as forensic accountants.

These specialists may be able to challenge the prosecutor's version of events and present alternative explanations for certain transactions. Our Phoenix criminal attorneys at Suzuki Law Offices are experienced trial advocates who will fight for your rights and defend your liberty.

Schedule your free, no-obligation case evaluation with our firm today!