Embezzlement Charges in Maryland | Defend Your Reputation with FrizWoods
Embezzlement is a serious financial crime in Maryland, often involving the unlawful appropriation of money or property by an individual entrusted to manage or oversee those assets. This white-collar crime is typically charged when an employee, corporate officer, or fiduciary is accused of stealing from a business, organization, or individual. If you're facing embezzlement charges, you need a strong legal defense to protect your reputation, livelihood, and freedom. The skilled attorneys at FrizWoods are here to help.
What Is Embezzlement?
Embezzlement occurs when someone unlawfully takes or misuses assets that they were legally entrusted with. Unlike theft, where a person takes property they had no legal right to possess, embezzlement involves an individual who had lawful access to the property and then misappropriated it for their own personal gain.
Common examples of embezzlement include:
- Skimming funds from a company's accounts
- Falsifying invoices or expense reports to redirect company money
- Misappropriating client or trust funds for personal use
- Transferring assets from a business account to a personal account without authorization
Embezzlement can be charged at both the state and federal levels, depending on the amount of money involved and whether the crime crossed state lines.
Maryland Embezzlement Laws and Penalties
In Maryland, embezzlement is prosecuted under theft laws. The severity of the charge is determined by the value of the property or funds stolen. The Maryland theft statute MD Criminal Law Code � 7-104 outlines the penalties for theft, which apply to embezzlement cases as well:
- Misdemeanor Theft: If the value of the property or funds embezzled is less than $1,500, the crime is considered a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 6 months in jail and fines up to $500.
- Felony Theft: If the value exceeds $1,500, the crime becomes a felony, with penalties ranging from up to 5 years in prison for amounts between $1,500 and $25,000, to 25 years in prison for amounts over $100,000.
Embezzlement by Fiduciaries Under Maryland Law
Maryland Criminal Law � 7-113 specifically addresses embezzlement by fiduciaries. A fiduciary, such as a trustee or executor, may not fraudulently and willfully misappropriate or secrete money or property they hold in a fiduciary capacity with the intent to use it contrary to their trust responsibilities. Violating this statute is a misdemeanor of embezzlement and carries penalties of imprisonment for a term of 1 to 5 years.
For example, if a corporate officer in charge of managing trust funds diverts those funds for personal use, they could face embezzlement charges under � 7-113. Additionally, these cases are subject to the statute of limitations set forth in � 5-106(b) of the Courts Article, which provides specific timelines for prosecuting fiduciary crimes.
Common Defenses Against Embezzlement Charges
Embezzlement charges are complex, often involving extensive financial records and documentation. At FrizWoods, our defense attorneys work closely with forensic accountants and financial experts to uncover the truth behind the allegations and build a strong defense. Common defenses include:
- Lack of Intent: Embezzlement requires proof that the accused had the intent to permanently deprive the owner of the property. If intent cannot be proven, the charges may be reduced or dismissed.
- Mistake or Misunderstanding: In some cases, what appears to be embezzlement is actually the result of a misunderstanding or accounting error.
- Coercion or Duress: If the accused was forced or coerced into misappropriating the funds, this can be a valid defense.
- Insufficient Evidence: Embezzlement cases rely heavily on financial documentation. If the prosecution's evidence is weak or incomplete, the case may not hold up in court.
Our attorneys are experienced in analyzing financial data, cross-examining witnesses, and challenging the prosecution's evidence to protect your rights.
Why You Need an Experienced Maryland Embezzlement Attorney
Embezzlement cases can be extremely complex, involving vast amounts of financial data and intricate legal statutes. Without the right defense, you could face not only severe criminal penalties but also lasting damage to your career and reputation. The attorneys at FrizWoods understand the nuances of embezzlement law and have the resources to thoroughly investigate your case.
Our team has successfully defended clients accused of embezzlement by:
- Examining financial records for inconsistencies
- Presenting alternative explanations for discrepancies
- Challenging the prosecution's evidence
- Negotiating plea bargains or reduced charges
We know that your future is on the line, and we will fight aggressively to secure the best possible outcome for your case.
Frequently Asked Questions About Embezzlement
What should I do if I'm accused of embezzlement?
If you are accused of embezzlement, it is crucial to contact a defense attorney immediately. Avoid making any statements to your employer, law enforcement, or investigators without legal counsel, as anything you say can be used against you.
Can I go to prison for embezzlement in Maryland?
Yes, embezzlement is a form of theft, and Maryland law imposes prison sentences for theft convictions. The length of the sentence depends on the value of the property stolen and whether the crime is charged as a misdemeanor or felony.
What are the long-term consequences of an embezzlement conviction?
Beyond imprisonment and fines, an embezzlement conviction can severely damage your reputation, making it difficult to find future employment, particularly in fields involving financial management or fiduciary responsibilities.
Contact FrizWoods for Embezzlement Defense in Maryland
If you are facing embezzlement charges, you need a defense team that understands both the legal and financial aspects of your case. The attorneys at FrizWoods have extensive experience defending clients against financial crime accusations and can help you navigate this difficult time. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your defense strategy.
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