Facing charges of theft or embezzlement on your own can be terrifying. To help you build your defense and protect your best interests, contact a skilled Manchester criminal defense lawyer today.
When a person takes the property or assets of another without permission and for personal gain, a crime of theft has been committed. In Tennessee, embezzlement is a type of theft, and one that is often aggressively prosecuted and harshly penalized. At the law office of Burch & Stewart, our experienced criminal defense attorneys can help you to understand the embezzlement charges you are facing, your potential defenses, and how to best navigate your criminal case. Call us today to get started.
Defining Embezzlement in Tennessee
Embezzlement is a form of theft in Tennessee, and occurs when the person accused of the crime fails to perform promised duties or takes money for personal gain that was entrusted to them for management/monitoring. However, despite the different definitions, theft and embezzlement are penalized in the same manner. Penalties for embezzlement are based on the value of property/assets stolen. Crimes are classified, per Section 39-14-105 of Tennessee’s code, in the following manner:
- Class A misdemeanor - Value of property or services obtained is $1,000 or less;
- Class E felony - Value of property or services obtained is between $1,001 and $2,499;
- Class D felony - Value of property or services obtained is between $2,500 and $9,999;
- Class C felony - Value of property or services obtained is between $10,000 and $59,999;
- Class B felony - Value of property or services obtained is between $60,000 and $249,999;
- Class A felony - Value of property or services obtained is $250,000 or more.
Penalties depend on the degree of offense committed. For example, a Class A misdemeanor is penalized by potential jail time of up to 11 months and 29 days or/and a fine of up to $2,500. A Class A felony, on the other hand, can be penalized by between 15 and 60 years in prison or/and a fine of up to $50,000.
Defenses to Embezzlement
If you are facing embezzlement charges in Tennessee, it is important to work with a skilled attorney who understands the charges that you are facing and the potential defenses to embezzlement. These defenses, depending on your circumstances, might include that you had an honest claim to the property/assets involved or that you were acting with honest intent. In addition to building a defense, our attorneys can also represent you in plea negotiations with the prosecution.
Call Our Lawyers Today
Do not make the mistake of failing to seek legal representation if you are facing theft or embezzlement charges in Manchester; instead, call our experienced criminal defense lawyers at the law offices of Burch & Stewart. We are here to help you navigate the criminal system and secure the best outcome possible. We have years of experience and are passionate about providing competent representation to people like you.