Olathe Embezzlement Attorney

Defending Clients Accused of Embezzlement in Olathe and Johnson County

Embezzlement charges carry severe consequences, casting a long shadow over the future of those accused. Despite being a non-violent crime, embezzlement is often treated with the same gravity as violent offenses due to the breach of trust involved. The penalties, ranging from hefty fines to substantial prison sentences, can be devastating both personally and professionally. If you are facing embezzlement charges, you need a strong legal representative who can mount an effective defense.

I am a seasoned criminal defense attorney who has been aggressively defending individuals accused of a variety of criminal offenses, including white-collar crimes, for over 20 years. As a skilled Olathe embezzlement lawyer, I understand the fear and uncertainty you are likely experiencing, and I want to put my knowledge, resources, and litigation prowess to work for you. As a former prosecutor, I understand both sides of the courtroom and how Kansas courts decide these cases. When you choose my firm, The Law Office of John Harvell, you will get an advocate who will do everything possible to secure a favorable outcome that avoids jail time.

Discuss your case today by calling (888) 879-7087 or contacting us online.

What Is Considered Embezzlement in Kansas?

In the state of Kansas, embezzlement is defined as the misappropriation of funds or property for personal gain when the assets were entrusted to an individual due to their employment or professional role. A key element of embezzlement is that it involves the misuse of assets that were legitimately in the alleged offender’s possession due to their position as opposed to outright theft where the assets were never legally in their possession to begin with.

Kansas law treats embezzlement as a type of theft. The defining characteristic of embezzlement is the violation of the fiduciary relationship existing between the individual accused and the owner of the assets. For instance, if an employee entrusted with handling the company's finances intentionally diverts some of the company's funds into their personal account without the knowledge or consent of the company, their actions would constitute embezzlement.

Embezzlement can manifest in a variety of scenarios beyond direct monetary theft. For instance, a cashier pocketing cash from the register and falsifying sales records to cover the act is a clear form of embezzlement. Similarly, a purchasing manager who inflates invoices and keeps the difference or a bookkeeper who manipulates financial statements to hide unauthorized transactions are both committing embezzlement.

Another common form of this offense involves property embezzlement. For example, a warehouse supervisor who takes items from inventory for personal use and alters the inventory records to conceal the theft is embezzling. An employee entrusted with company equipment who sells that equipment and pockets the proceeds has also committed embezzlement under the law.

The severity of the punishments for embezzlement in Kansas is often determined based on the value of the funds or property embezzled. Lesser amounts typically result in misdemeanors with penalties of fines and imprisonment for less than a year. However, larger amounts can lead to felony charges, resulting in significant fines and longer imprisonment terms. Regardless of the value of the embezzled funds, the impact on your reputation and future career prospects can be significant, underlining the importance of hiring an Olathe embezzlement attorney to assist with your defense.

I can provide the aggressive advocacy you need when you are facing embezzlement charges. Call (888) 879-7087 or contact The Law Office of John Harvell online today.