People are often surprised to discover what crimes may be linked to embezzlement. Embezzlement is considered a white-collar crime and is most typically defined as the use of someone else’s funds for your own purposes when you were responsible for protecting those funds.

However, in the course of usual employment, there may be instances that you are unaware of that can result in embezzlement charges. Some of these examples include:

Petty cash theft – many companies keep a small fund on hand for expenses such as office supplies, coffee etc. while it may be tempting to “borrow” small amounts for personal use this is also considered embezzlement.

Ongoing theft – when someone is responsible for maintaining the finances of a company of any size, and they consistently use small amounts of money for personal reasons they are likely to face embezzlement charges.

Unfortunately, it is not possible to use “ignorance of the law” as a defense; however, it is possible to mount an affirmative defense if you believe you had a legal right to the money. If you are facing embezzlement charges, or if you have discovered you are under investigation for embezzlement, contact the Law Office of Nicholas J. Muscarello at (985) 345-1010 and schedule an immediate consultation. The sooner we can determine the facts of your case, the more likely we will be able to prove your innocence.