Kalamazoo & Grand Rapids Embezzlement Lawyers

If you have been charged with embezzlement or are under investigation, not only do you face the possibility of a criminal record, but your rights and reputation are also at stake. It is crucial to have an attorney on your side who is capable of obtaining the best available outcome for you. Having an embezzlement conviction on your record could result in difficulty finding gainful employment for the rest of your life.

At Willis Law, we are led by a team of Kalamazoo embezzlement lawyers who are experienced in the courtroom and highly knowledgeable of federal law. We serve clients throughout all of West Michigan and understand the importance of taking an aggressive and proactive approach to protect them from embezzlement and employee theft charges.

Call Willis Law today at (888) 461-7744 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our Kalamazoo & Grand Rapids embezzlement attorneys.

What is Embezzlement?

Embezzlement is taking money, using services, or taking property for yourself for your own benefit while being trusted by your employer to possess, manage, or monitor for someone else. It can be as simple as taking money out of the cash register or as complex as a multi-party money-laundering scheme.

Tragically these charges often arise from people taking money during desperate times in their lives. They often plan on paying the money back but are caught before they can do so. We understand that people often find themselves in bad situations, and many of our clients have no prior criminal record.

What are the Penalties for Embezzlement in Michigan?

Embezzlement is a serious offense in Michigan, and individuals convicted of this crime could face severe consequences. Some of the potential penalties for embezzlement in Michigan may include:

• Criminal Charges: Embezzlement charges can vary in severity, varying from misdemeanor to felony, depending on the value of the embezzled property or funds.
• Fines: Convicted individuals may be needed to pay fines, the amount of which is determined by the value of the embezzled property.
• Restitution: In addition to fines, the court may order individuals to make restitution to the victim, reimbursing them for the value of the embezzled property.
• Imprisonment: Embezzlement convictions can lead to significant jail or prison sentences, with the duration varying based on the case's specific details.
• Probation: In some circumstances, individuals may be sentenced to probation, during which they are closely monitored and must adhere to specific conditions set by the court.
• Criminal Record: A conviction for embezzlement can lead to a permanent criminal record, affecting future employment opportunities and personal relationships.

Defenses Against Embezzlement Charges

Facing embezzlement charges can be overwhelming, but with the right legal representation, individuals can explore various defenses to build a strong case. Some of the possible defenses against embezzlement charges may include:

• Lack of Intent: Embezzlement charges often require proof of intent to deprive the rightful owner of the property. Showing a lack of intent can be a powerful defense strategy.
• Mistaken Identity: In some cases, individuals could be wrongly accused of embezzlement because of mistaken identity. We can thoroughly investigate the circumstances to establish the true facts of the case.
• Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must present sufficient evidence to support embezzlement charges. Challenging the strength of the evidence can be a key defense strategy to weaken the prosecution's case.
• Duress or Coercion: It may be a valid defense if the accused acted under duress or coercion. We work to gather evidence and present a compelling case to demonstrate the circumstances that led to the alleged embezzlement.
• Entrapment: In some situations, individuals may be coerced or induced into committing embezzlement. Proving entrapment requires a strategic approach, and we are adept at building a defense around this concept.

Contact Our Embezzlement Attorney in Kalamazoo & Grand Rapids Today

We will do everything we can to protect your rights and provide you with an opportunity to put this behind you and move on with your life. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with our knowledgeable Kalamazoo & Grand Rapids embezzlement lawyers. We have office locations in Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids, and Paw Paw. 

Contact Willis Law today to get started with our Kalamazoo & Grand Rapids embezzlement lawyers.