Crimes such as theft, fraud and embezzlement are considered crimes of dishonesty. If you are convicted or plead guilty to a crime of dishonesty, many people and organizations— including future employers, colleges, professional licensing organizations and banks — may form an opinion of you based on your criminal record, no matter what you do with your life in the future.
At Breeding & Dothard, LLC, in Knoxville, we are here to protect your reputation and your future if you have been charged with a white collar crime. Defense lawyer Joseph Lodato is a former prosecutor who has worked in the White Collar Crime unit and police officer who understands how the state investigates, handles and prosecutes theft, fraud and embezzlement cases. Brad Henry is experienced in State and federal courts defending white collar crimes, including bank fraud, mortgage fraud, and tax evasion. Both attorneys offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case.
There are many kinds of theft and white collar crime cases that fall under the umbrella of theft offenses:
- Theft and shoplifting
- Taking money from an employer (embezzlement)
- Misuse of a company credit card
- Failure to return a rental car
- Check forgery
- Obtaining property by fraud
- Real estate fraud
- Internet fraud
In Tennessee, the seriousness of a theft charge is usually based on the value of the item taken. Theft of $500 or less is charged as a misdemeanor. Theft of more than $500 is a felony. Theft by forgery is a felony.
Defenses in White Collar Crimes
In some cases, the state may allege a crime where there was no intent to commit a crime. Defenses in theft-related cases include:
- You thought you had a right to the property
- You had no intent to deceive anyone or deprive the rightful owner of the property
Our goal in any theft-related case is to resolve the charges without a conviction. For many thefts and white collar crimes, Tennessee offers first offender programs, judicial diversion programs and expungement of arrest records.
For More Information About Theft, Embezzlement and Fraud Charges
Let a former prosecutor and police officer and an experienced state and federal court defense lawyer protect your rights. For more information or to schedule a consultation with Knoxville white collar crimes defense attorney Joseph Lodato or Brad Henry, call 865-223-6307 or fill out our contact form.
