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DC Embezzlement Penalties

The penalties for embezzlement vary widely but are always serious. They can include heavy fines and long periods of jail time. Additionally, embezzlement convictions result in a criminal record and social stigma that can make it difficult for you to get a job or secure government benefits.

If you are facing these allegations, you should reach out to an attorney to discuss DC embezzlement penalties. A practiced embezzlement attorney can help you fight to protect your rights and avoid these harsh penalties.

Immediate Consequences for an Embezzlement Conviction

If a person is found guilty after either a trial or plea deal, the immediate penalties they could face would be dependent on the value of the property that was wrongfully obtained. For example, if someone is accused of embezzling $20,000 of company money and using it for personal expenses such as mortgage payments, bills, travel, or any other expenses not directly authorized by the owner of that property, then they will be charged with a felony-level theft offense. Since the value of the property taken in this situation is more than $1,000, the maximum penalty a person would face would be up to 10 years in prison, fines of up to $25,000, or both.

Voluntary sentencing guidelines provide recommendations to a judge when they need to decide what penalties they are going to impose on a person who has been convicted of felony embezzlement. Sentencing guidelines consider two factors. The first is a person’s criminal history. For example, if a person has no records, the judge may be more lenient in sentencing. The other consideration is the severity of the conviction offense. An attorney can further explain how these specific factors can impact the immediate DC embezzlement penalties.

Long-Term Repercussions for DC Residents

Aside from the immediate potential consequences of embezzlement convictions, such as prison, fines, and probation periods, there are a number of potential long-term consequences that a person could face. The most obvious is that, if a person is convicted of embezzlement, it could make it very difficult for them to obtain employment in certain sectors. However, other consequences also exist.

Professional Consequences

A conviction for embezzlement could prevent a person from holding jobs that would allow them to be in control or have supervisory authority over any amounts of money. This can include jobs in banking, accounting, or other similar professions. Embezzlement charges or other kinds of theft charges could also make it difficult to obtain a Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) license, a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license, and other state licenses that are required by certain professions. This would further bar a person from being able to maintain employment.

Personal Repercussions

Criminal convictions can also have an impact on a person’s ability to obtain government benefits, such as Section 8 housing vouchers or other federal or local benefits. Finally, anyone who is seeking custody over their children or who are involved in other financial or legal disputes even if those legal disputes may also face additional difficulties following a conviction.

Discuss DC Embezzlement Penalties with a Qualified Attorney

It is extremely important to reach out for help if you are facing these charges. Experienced legal counsel who understands these offenses, understands how they are charged, and how they are prosecuted can be an invaluable ally in working towards a positive outcome. If you are facing charges and would like to learn more about DC embezzlement penalties, call today to set up a free consultation.