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When you’re accused of embezzlement in Boulder County, everything changes instantly. Prosecutors don’t just see a financial crime – they see a breach of trust they want to punish with prison time. Your career, reputation, and freedom hang in the balance.

Don’t let an embezzlement charge destroy everything you’ve built. Contact Dawson Law now before prosecutors build an insurmountable case against you.

Colorado Embezzlement Charges & Penalties

Embezzlement is a form of theft that involves the misappropriation or unlawful use of funds or assets entrusted to someone, typically by an employer or client. In Colorado, embezzlement is prosecuted under the state’s theft laws, and charges are typically brought when an individual is accused of intentionally converting property or money for their own use without the owner’s consent.

In Colorado, embezzlement is prosecuted under C.R.S. § 18-4-401. The severity of charges depends on the amount allegedly taken:

  • Property valued at less than $300. This is a petty offense punishable by fines and up to 10 days in jail.
  • $300–$999: Class 2 misdemeanor, up to 120 days in jail.
  • $1,000–$1,999: Class 1 misdemeanor, up to 18 months in jail.
  • $2,000–$4,999: Class 6 felony, up to 1.5 years in prison.
  • $5,000–$19,999: Class 5 felony, up to 3 years in prison.
  • $20,000–$99,999: Class 4 felony, up to 6 years in prison.
  • $100,000–$999,999: Class 3 felony, up to 12 years in prison.
  • $1,000,000 or more: Class 2 felony, up to 24 years in prison.

Under C.R.S. 18-8-407, embezzlement of public funds by a public servant is a Class 5 felony, punishable by up to 3 years in prison and $100,000 in fines, regardless of the amount taken. A conviction also renders the person permanently ineligible to hold public office in Colorado.

What Prosecutors Must Prove To Get an Embezzlement Conviction

For an embezzlement conviction, prosecutors need to show:

  1. You were entrusted with money or property
  2. By virtue of your employment or position
  3. You used the property for your own benefit
  4. With intent to permanently deprive the owner

Miss any element, they can’t convict you.

Examples of embezzlement include:

  • Diverting company funds into personal accounts.
  • Misusing client funds as a financial advisor.
  • Falsifying expense reports or payroll.
  • Taking cash from a cash register or safe.

Because embezzlement cases often involve complex financial transactions and forensic evidence, it’s crucial to have a knowledgeable attorney on your side to challenge the prosecution’s case.

How Dawson Law Office Can Help You

When you’re facing embezzlement charges, you need a skilled and experienced attorney who understands the nuances of financial crime cases. At Dawson Law Office, we offer comprehensive legal services tailored to your specific situation.

Here is our approach to embezzlement and theft cases:

  1. Thorough Investigation: We examine the prosecution’s evidence, including financial records, electronic communications, and witness statements, to identify weaknesses in the case against you.
  2. Building Your Defense: Our team develops a defense tailored to your circumstances, whether that involves disputing intent, proving lawful use of funds, or demonstrating insufficient evidence.
  3. Negotiation and Resolution: We aim to resolve cases outside of court whenever possible, whether through reduced charges, dismissals, or favorable plea agreements.
  4. Courtroom Advocacy: If your case goes to trial, we provide aggressive and persuasive representation, challenging the prosecution’s narrative and protecting your rights every step of the way.

Common Defenses Against Embezzlement Charges

No two cases are the same, but some common defenses we employ in embezzlement cases include:

  • Lack of Intent: Proving that the accused had no intention of permanently depriving the owner of funds or property.
  • Authorization: Demonstrating that the accused was authorized to use the funds or property in question.
  • Insufficient Evidence: Highlighting gaps or inconsistencies in the prosecution’s evidence.
  • Mistaken Identity: Showing that someone else committed the crime or had access to the funds.
  • Duress or Coercion: Proving that the accused acted under pressure or threats from another party.

Our goal is to secure the best possible outcome for your case, whether that means a dismissal, reduced charges, or a not-guilty verdict at trial.

Why Choose Dawson Law Office?

At Dawson Law Office, we believe that every client deserves personalized attention and a rigorous defense. Here’s why individuals in Boulder trust us with their embezzlement cases:

  • Experienced Representation: We have years of experience handling complex financial crime cases, including embezzlement.
  • Strategic Approach: We tailor our strategies to each client’s unique circumstances and aggressively challenge the prosecution’s case.
  • Client-Centered Service: We prioritize clear communication, keeping you informed and involved at every stage of your case.
  • Proven Results: Our track record of successful outcomes speaks to our dedication and skill as criminal defense attorneys.

Don’t Let Embezzlement Charges Define Your Future

If you’ve been accused of embezzlement in Boulder, it’s important to act quickly. Early intervention can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. At Dawson Law Office, we’re here to stand by your side, protect your rights, and fight for the best possible resolution.

Contact us today. Your career, reputation, and freedom can’t wait.

Got Questions? We Got Answers.

What should I do if I’m accused of embezzlement in Boulder?

If you’re accused of embezzlement, it’s important to avoid speaking to anyone about the case, including law enforcement, without first consulting a criminal defense lawyer. Contact Dawson Law Office immediately to protect your rights and start building your defense.

Can embezzlement charges be dismissed?

Yes, embezzlement charges can be dismissed if the defense can show insufficient evidence, lack of intent, or other weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. At Dawson Law Office, we evaluate all aspects of your case to seek the best possible resolution, including dismissal when appropriate.

How does the prosecution prove embezzlement?

To convict someone of embezzlement, the prosecution must prove that you were entrusted with property or funds, used them unlawfully, and had the intent to deprive the rightful owner. A skilled attorney can challenge these elements to weaken the prosecution’s case.

Can I avoid jail time for embezzlement?

Depending on the circumstances, it may be possible to avoid jail time by negotiating a plea deal, securing reduced charges, or presenting a strong defense that leads to dismissal or acquittal. An experienced lawyer from Dawson Law Office can help you explore all available options.

How long does an embezzlement case take to resolve?

The timeline for an embezzlement case depends on factors such as the complexity of the evidence, the willingness of the prosecution to negotiate, and whether the case goes to trial. Some cases resolve in a few months, while others may take longer. Dawson Law Office works diligently to resolve your case as efficiently as possible.

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