What to Do If You Were Falsely Accused of Embezzlement
Being suspected of embezzlement can turn your life upside down. These allegations can damage your reputation and lead to intense scrutiny of your finances and career history. If you believe accusations of embezzlement against you are false, it is critical to respond appropriately to avoid wrongly going to jail. A Texas attorney can help you fight back against this claim.
Be Careful What You Say
It is understandable to feel shocked, angry, or confused if accused of embezzlement out of nowhere. You may be tempted to confront your accusers immediately or adamantly profess your innocence. However, anything you say or do after an accusation could be used against you or mischaracterized. So first, take a breath and refrain from making statements you cannot walk back.
Next, discreetly document the details of the allegations you have been aware of. When and how were you informed of the suspicions or investigation? This will help give your lawyer crucial context later. Proactively compiling evidence in your defense could also help alleviate some anxiety over the situation.
Gather Documentation
Work closely with your lawyer to pull together documentation that could help prove your innocence. This may include financial records, emails, time cards, accounting statements, and more showing you did not illicitly misdirect company funds. An attorney can help identify which documents will construct the most robust factual defense. Do not destroy or delete any data without your lawyer’s guidance.
Understand the Allegations
Have your lawyer thoroughly explain the exact allegations of suspected embezzlement against you. What transactions or financial movements are in question? When did the alleged misconduct supposedly occur, and in what timeframe? Clarifying the scope of allegations will allow you and your attorney to counter and disprove the accusations directly.
Explore Possible Motives
Alongside your attorney, brainstorm who may be incentivized to falsely accuse you of embezzlement and why. Do you suspect a colleague passed blame to hide their misconduct? Could allegations stem from unrelated workplace conflicts or office politics? Understanding potential motives can strengthen your defense strategy. An attorney experienced in embezzlement cases will know how to direct attention to plausible alternative scenarios.
Contact a Fort Worth, TX Criminal Defense Lawyer
At all times, calmly maintain your innocence without admitting guilt or getting defensive. A Plano, TX criminal defense attorney will have your back and can help you through this time. You do not have to go through the process by yourself. Call The Crowder Law Firm, P.C. at 214-544-0061 for a free consultation.