SAN ANTONIO WHITE COLLAR CRIME ATTORNEY – EMBEZZLEMENT AND FRAUD

Embezzlement, theft, and fraud are serious charges that fall under white-collar crimes. An example of embezzlement would be a company employee who, over time, siphons money from the company's accounts into their personal account. This act of misappropriation of funds is illegal and can result in severe penalties. Fraud, on the other hand, involves intentionally deceiving someone for personal or financial gain. An example might include creating a fake company to solicit funds from investors under false pretenses.

If you're facing charges related to embezzlement or fraud, it's crucial to contact a white collar crime attorney immediately. The Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock in San Antonio, Texas, can provide you with an experienced criminal defense attorney who understands the complexities of white collar crime and is equipped to defend your rights in court.

Embezzlement is classified as a theft crime involving the misappropriation of funds or property that a person legally has access to but does not own. For example, a bank teller who pockets money from a cash drawer or an accountant who alters financial records to cover up their theft is committing embezzlement. The key factor that classifies an act as embezzlement is the breach of trust—where the offender was entrusted with the property or funds but illegally took or misused them for personal gain.

In Texas, embezzlement is considered a serious offense, and the penalties can range from fines to significant prison time, depending on the amount of money or property stolen. If you are accused of embezzlement, seeking the guidance of a criminal defense lawyer at the Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock is essential to navigating your defense strategy.

Embezzlement becomes a federal crime when it involves federal property or institutions, such as embezzling from a federal bank, a government agency, or a federally insured financial institution. If the embezzlement scheme crosses state lines, it can also fall under federal jurisdiction. Federal embezzlement charges carry more severe penalties than state charges, including longer prison sentences and larger fines.

Given the complexities of federal charges, it is vital to have a criminal law attorney who is experienced in federal cases. The Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock in San Antonio, Texas, has seasoned criminal lawyers who can handle federal embezzlement cases with the skill and dedication required to protect your rights.

Yes, in Texas, you can be charged with both embezzlement and fraud if your actions meet the legal definitions of both crimes. For instance, if you misappropriate funds from an employer (embezzlement) and also falsify financial records to cover up your crime (fraud), you could face charges for both offenses. These charges can compound the severity of your case, leading to stiffer penalties, including higher fines and longer prison sentences.

If you are facing dual charges of embezzlement and fraud, it is imperative to consult with a white collar crime lawyer immediately. The Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock can provide you with a skilled criminal attorney who will work to develop a strong defense strategy, potentially reducing the charges or penalties you face.

While both embezzlement and fraud are considered white-collar crimes, they differ in key ways. Embezzlement involves the theft or misappropriation of funds or property by someone who was entrusted with it, such as an employee or an accountant. Fraud, however, involves deceit or intentional misrepresentation to gain an unfair or unlawful advantage, such as lying about financial statements to secure a loan.

Understanding the difference between these charges is crucial for your defense. A criminal law attorney at the Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock can help clarify these distinctions and work with you to build a defense strategy tailored to the specific charges you are facing. Whether you're charged with embezzlement, fraud, or both, our criminal defense lawyers are here to provide the legal support you need.

If you or someone you know is facing charges related to embezzlement, fraud, or any other criminal offense, don't hesitate to contact the Law Offices of Patrick L. Hancock at (210) 223-8844. Our experienced attorneys are ready to defend your rights and help you navigate the legal system.