A Comprehensive Guide to Chicago Embezzlement Attorneys
Embezzlement involves property theft or misappropriation of funds placed in one’s trust or belonging to an employer or business. It can involve tangible assets like cash or intangible property like intellectual property.
If you have been accused of or charged criminally with embezzlement, you need an experienced Chicago embezzlement defense attorney to represent you. If you have been contacted by an investigator for embezzlement, then early intervention by a mortgage fraud attorney can be the key to an early resolution to avoid criminal charges.
Many variables are attached to the complexity of embezzlement cases, such as the amount of money embezzled and the length of time the alleged embezzlement has been happening.
Often, the people accused of embezzlement are executives, employees, high-profile individuals, accountants, or executors of a trust. There may have been a misunderstanding or lack of evidence that led to accusations or criminal charges. Hirsch Law Group is experienced in defending clients in 13 counties across Illinois, including Chicago, from embezzlement criminal charges.
The penalties of a conviction of embezzlement charges can be severe and stay with you for the rest of your life. Hirsch Law Group will fight hard for an acquittal. If an embezzlement conviction is inevitable based on evidence, then we will work to negotiate a reduced sentence.
Evidence in white-collar crimes usually includes electronic communications, emails, business documents, and computer files. You will need a top-rated Chicago embezzlement lawyer who can analyze this evidence. We will use this data to poke holes and create doubt in the prosecution’s case.
Most people accused of embezzlement in Illinois have their careers and reputations at stake. Hirsch Law Group will do its best to protect your career and good name so CEOs, doctors, lawyers, and accountants do not experience career-ending consequences. We are well-versed in protecting professionals who fight white-collar criminal charges and accusations.
Embezzlement Criminal Defenses
There are a variety of possible defenses that can be used in an embezzlement case. Some of the common ones include:
You Mistakenly Believed That You Were The Property Owner
This defense hinges on the argument that you believed, in good faith, that you had a legitimate claim to the property in question. You may have thought the money or property was yours or you were entitled to it. The critical element here is to demonstrate that there was no intent to embezzle or gain personally from this action.
You Are The Owner of The Property
In some cases, you may argue that you are, in fact, the rightful owner of the alleged property stolen. To support this claim, you must provide evidence or documentation showing your ownership or a legitimate claim to the property. This defense often arises in complex financial transactions or disputes over ownership.
You Have Been Falsely Accused
Being falsely accused of embezzlement is not uncommon. Such charges could stem from workplace politics, personal vendettas, or simple misunderstandings. In these cases, your law firm will provide an aggressive representation, aiming to create reasonable doubt about the validity of the accusations. They might also work to uncover any motive behind the false allegation.
You Obtained The Property By Accident
Accidentally obtaining property can happen, especially in workplaces dealing with large financial transactions. For instance, you may have inadvertently been in possession of the company or government property, which was later mistaken for embezzlement. In this case, your attorney can highlight the absence of intent for personal gain.
Constitutional Rights Have Been Violated
This defense is centered on the claim that your constitutional rights were violated during the investigation or trial process. This could include instances where evidence was obtained illegally or if you were not provided with appropriate legal representation. If proven, such violations can lead to the dismissal of the charges or a significantly reduced sentence.
Sentences if Convicted of Embezzlement Charges
The penalties for embezzlement in Illinois vary depending on the amount of money or value of property involved. Generally, embezzlement is considered a felony offense and carries severe consequences, including fines, restitution, and imprisonment. In some cases, the accused may also face civil lawsuits from their employer or business.
Here is a breakdown of the penalties for embezzlement in Illinois:
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Property valued at $500 or less – Class A misdemeanor – up to one year in jail and up to $2500 in fines.
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Property valued at $500 – $10,000 – Class 3 felony – 2-5 years in prison and up to $25,000 in fines.
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Property valued at $10,000 – $100,000 – Class 2 felony – 3 – 7 years in prison and up to $25,000 in fines.
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Property valued at $100,000 – $500,000 – Class 1 felony – 4 – 15 years in prison and up to $25,000 in fines.
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Property valued at $500,000 – $1,000,000 – Class X felony – 6 – 30 years in prison and up to $25,000 in fines.
In addition to these penalties, a convicted embezzler may also face probation for a certain period or have their professional license revoked. These consequences can have far-reaching impacts on an individual’s life and career.
It is crucial to have a strong defense strategy in place when facing embezzlement charges. That is why it is crucial to work with an experienced and reputable Chicago embezzlement defense attorney who understands the complexities of white-collar crimes.
Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney in Chicago
For criminal embezzlement charges to be filed instead of theft charges, the prosecution must prove that the accused has a fiduciary relationship between the alleged embezzler and the alleged victim. A fiduciary relationship is when a person holds a position of confidence, trust, or reliance with the principal person.
At Hirsch Law Group, our team has the experience and skills to defend individuals facing embezzlement charges in Chicago. We understand how damaging these accusations can be to your career and reputation, which is why we work tirelessly to protect your rights and obtain the best possible outcome for your case.
Illinois Embezzlement Attorneys: What to Do if You’ve Been Accused of Fraud
If you have been accused of embezzlement or fraud, it is essential to take immediate action and seek the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney in Chicago. Being charged with a white-collar crime like embezzlement can have severe consequences, including damage to your reputation, loss of employment, fines, and even imprisonment.
So, what should you do if you’ve been accused of embezzlement? Here are some steps to follow:
- Do not speak to anyone about the accusations.
- Contact a Chicago embezzlement attorney immediately.
- Gather and organize any evidence or documents that may help your case.
- Familiarize yourself with the charges against you and potential defenses.
- Avoid any further actions that could be perceived as embezzlement or fraud.
- Be prepared to pay restitution if found guilty.
- Consider reaching a plea agreement with the prosecution.
Contact Hirsch Law Group for Professional Legal Defense
Being accused of embezzlement can be a daunting experience, but with the right legal team by your side, you can fight for your rights and clear your name. At Hirsch Law Group, we have extensive experience defending individuals facing embezzlement charges in Illinois.
Our expert attorneys will work tirelessly to analyze evidence, build a robust defense strategy, and negotiate on your behalf. We understand the complexities of white-collar crimes and know how to protect our clients’ careers and reputations.
If you have been accused of embezzlement or any other financial crime, do not hesitate to contact us for a consultation. Our team is dedicated to providing top-notch legal defense and ensuring that your rights are protected every step of the way. Trust us to fight for your freedom and future.
If You Have Been Arrested - Know Your Rights
- Do not answer questions or reply to accusations
- Verbally tell the police that you do not want them to search yourself, car, house or property
- Call Gordon H. Hirsch 773-564-9291




