Are you being charged with embezzlement in Birmingham, AL? Many people in this situation have never dealt with the criminal justice system and feel overwhelmed by the situation. At Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C., our legal team has over 100 years of combined legal experience. Contact us today at (205) 930-9800 to schedule a free consultation.
From the moment you contact us, you’ll have direct access to a skilled Birmingham criminal defense attorney who will listen to your story, explain your rights, and take immediate action to protect your future.
Contact us to schedule a free consultation with a Birmingham embezzlement lawyer.
Why Choose Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight if I’m Arrested for Embezzlement in Birmingham?
An embezzlement charge in Birmingham, Alabama, can put your future, career, and reputation on the line in ways you’ve probably never experienced before. At Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C., we bring significant legal experience to these types of charges, both at the state and federal levels.
Here’s what sets our defense team apart:
- Multiple team members have been honored by Best Lawyers, The National Trial Lawyers, and Super Lawyers.
- Several of our attorneys have a perfect 10.0 “Superb” rating on Avvo.
- Both of our senior partners are past presidents of the Alabama Defense Lawyers Association.
By selecting our Birmingham criminal defense attorneys, you immediately increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome in your case. Don’t risk your future by choosing a firm that doesn’t have the right experience.
Contact our Birmingham white-collar crimes attorneys today for a complimentary consultation.
An Overview of Embezzlement in Alabama
In Alabama, embezzlement is typically handled under state theft statutes. It refers to a very specific type of theft where a person uses their position of trust to take money or property that has been rightfully placed in their care, then uses it for their own gain instead of the intended purpose.
It’s not just stealing something. It’s taking something that you already have access to because someone trusted you with it.
Common examples include writing unauthorized checks, manipulating company accounts, or pocketing customer payments.
What Are the Penalties for Embezzlement in Alabama?
Embezzlement is treated very seriously in Birmingham, and the punishment largely depends on how much was allegedly taken. Alabama’s penalties range from serious felonies to lesser misdemeanor charges, all of which can seriously impact your future.
First Degree Theft (Most Serious)
If the value taken is more than $2,500, the charge is first-degree theft under Alabama law. This is a Class B felony, with possible penalties of 2 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $30,000.
Lower Level Charges
If the embezzled amount is less than $2,500, the law assigns less severe charges, but they’re still serious. Theft between $1,500 and $2,500 can be charged as a Class C felony, which carries a potential prison sentence of up to 10 years and a fine of up to $15,000.
Embezzling smaller amounts may result in felony or misdemeanor charges, depending on the circumstances. Even a misdemeanor conviction can result in time in county jail and substantial fines.
Regardless of how the offense is charged, the consequences are long-lasting and extend beyond jail time or fines. Having a theft conviction on your record makes future employment difficult and could limit your professional or business opportunities.
What Defenses Can Be Raised if I’m Arrested for Embezzlement?
If you’re arrested for embezzlement, it’s important to remember that the burden of proof lies with the prosecution, and not all accusations lead to a guilty verdict. Working with an experienced defense lawyer gives you the best chance to explain the situation and present valid defenses. Common ones include:
Misunderstanding
Sometimes, embezzlement allegations stem from honest confusion about accounting procedures, job duties, or workplace practices. If you transfer or spend money believing it was your right or because you misunderstood a company rule, this can be used as a defense.
Authorization
You can only be convicted of embezzlement if you used funds or property without proper approval. If you had permission from your employer to handle the money or perform specific financial transactions, proving that you had this authorization should lead to a not guilty verdict.
Lack of Intent to Steal
Intent is essential in embezzlement cases. If you accidentally misplaced funds or made a reckless, but not criminal, business decision, prosecutors are likely to fail to meet the burden of proof.
Facing embezzlement charges is stressful, but building a defense around what actually happened gives you a chance to beat these charges.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With Our Birmingham Embezzlement Lawyers
A single accusation does not make you guilty, and you shouldn’t let this situation control your future. Working with our legal team ensures every detail of your case is evaluated, and we’ll do everything we can to help you fight these charges. We understand how much is at stake and are committed to standing by you every step of the way.
Contact Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C. to schedule a free consultation with a Birmingham embezzlement lawyer.