Embezzlement Attorney in Lexington, South Carolina

Turn to the Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC

The Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC, represents clients charged with breach of trust and embezzlement in South Carolina State and Federal Courts. The main difference between embezzlement or breach of trust compared to larceny is that these charges require that the defendant have some level of access or trust to the money or property converted. Embezzlement usually refers to the white collar variety of the offense with participation alleged by an accountant, executive, manager or someone else in a position with a high level of responsibility. While under State law the elements are the same, breach of trust is usually referred to when the alleged theft involves tangible property or the act is committed by someone lower in the organization such as a cashier, bookkeeper, or low level management.

In almost all instances charges begin by an investigation by local law enforcement or the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. Investigations usually begin when a report is made by a manager or a co-worker. Cases can also be investigated by Federal law enforcement including the FBI or IRS. South Carolina's embezzlement law is codified in S.C. Code § 16-16-230. This law provides up to ten years imprisonment for someone who converted money or property that was entrusted to them. There are several different statutes involving Federal embezzlement offenses. If the cases involves embezzlement of public funds, such as a private organization that receives Federal money, the offense may be prosecuted under 18 U.S.C. § 666. This charge will be prosecuted in Federal Court.

Facing embezzlement charges in Lexington? We can help!

If you have been placed under investigation for any embezzlement or breach of trust offense it is important that you understand your rights. You have a right to decline to be interviewed by your employer or law enforcement, and you will not face any criminal penalties for failing to cooperate with a polygraph examination. To discuss your pending embezzlement or breach of trust charge or investigation, contact a Lexington criminal defense lawyer at the Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC. Our criminal defense office is located in Lexington, South Carolina, and we provide initial appointments at no cost.