What to Expect if You Are Convicted of a Felony for Embezzlement in South Carolina

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Your Health Magazine Contributor

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What to Expect if You Are Convicted of a Felony for Embezzlement in South Carolina

White-collar crimes, such as embezzling funds, are most times perceived as less severe compared to violent crimes like DUI, robbery, or murder. The charges might become severe if the embezzlement crime leads to the death of one or multiple parties. One common myth about embezzlement is the possibility of not facing a jail term. That is not true.

“Once you are under investigation for embezzlement, you need to understand your rights and ensure they are respected,” says attorney Bill Nettles, Attorney at Law. 

Financial crime victims are seen as severe felonies under South California’s law. Those caught might face lengthy jail terms and steep fines. Financial crime cases can be complex because prosecutors must prove that the defendant committed the financial crime to get a conviction. If you are in a situation like this, contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible so they can help you defend your rights and mitigate possible penalties.

What Is South Carolina’s Embezzlement Penalty?

Regardless of the amount you might have embezzled, you might face steep fines per the court’s decision, which is often proportional to the amount involved. For instance, if you allegedly embezzled funds up to $10,000 or more, you might face a 10-year jail term. On the other hand, if the funds embezzled are less, you might have to serve a 5-year jail term.

The duration of penalties for embezzlement may be greater than anticipated, as the length of imprisonment is not always proportionate to the amount embezzled. Although smaller embezzlement, such as a few thousand dollars, can be charged as a misdemeanor, it might leave a negative mark on your record.

Examples of Embezzlement Crimes

Financial crimes, like embezzlement, can happen once, but most times, they can last for an extended period. Examples of embezzlements are:

• Writing fake checks from an organization or business to the individual embezzling the funds
• Stealing from a cash register
• Creating fake bills or invoices or overcharging customers
• Stealing company assets
• Issuing false paychecks to employees
• Leveraging company resources for your gain

How Can You Defend Yourself Against Embezzlement Accusations?

Any charged crime has diverse defense mechanisms. If you are charged with embezzlement and it was an honest mistake, there are ways a criminal defense attorney in South Carolina can help your case if you consult one. Only a skilled attorney can effectively present your case and establish innocence before you get convicted.

The process could be complicated if you serve in a public office or are a public figure. Sometimes, it might be an accounting error or innocent misplacement, but whatever the case, ensure you get your story straight without omitting any information to your lawyer.

What Are the Federal Embezzlement Penalties?

That is dependent on the office you serve and the amount you embezzled. If it involves a federal or government contract, it constitutes a federal crime. The following factors also make an embezzlement a federal case:

• If it will be considered a conspiracy
• The number of people involved
• If it crosses your state’s line
• If you were the ringleader in the case
• If you know those involved in the crime

Conclusion

If you are facing embezzlement charges in South Carolina, it’s crucial to understand the severity of the situation and the potential consequences. While white-collar crimes like embezzlement may seem less serious than violent offenses, the penalties can be harsh, including significant prison sentences and steep fines. Even if the amount involved is relatively small, embezzlement can still damage your personal and professional life. Criminal defense attorneys in South Carolina charge no initial costs, and you can discuss the charges against them.