Discovering that you’re under investigation for embezzlement or fraud can be one of the most frightening experiences of your life. These white-collar criminal charges carry serious consequences, including potential prison time, substantial fines, and permanent damage to your professional reputation.
Whether you’re a business owner, corporate executive, or employee facing these allegations, understanding your rights and taking immediate action is critical to protecting your future. Our white collar criminal defense attorneys at Eppes & Plumblee in Greenville, SC, can help protect your rights throughout an investigation, potentially avoiding charges.
Understand the Severity of the Situation
Embezzlement and fraud are serious criminal offenses in the state of South Carolina. Embezzlement involves the misappropriation of funds or property entrusted to your care, while fraud encompasses a broader range of deceptive practices designed to secure unlawful financial gain. Depending on the amount allegedly involved, these charges can range from misdemeanors to felonies, with penalties escalating significantly as the dollar amount increases. Federal agencies may also become involved if the allegations involve activities that cross state lines or impact federal programs.
Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent
The most important step you can take when facing an investigation is to exercise your constitutional right to remain silent. Many people mistakenly believe that cooperating fully with investigators or “clearing up the misunderstanding” will help their case. In reality, anything you say can and will be used against you in court. Investigators are skilled at asking questions designed to elicit incriminating responses, even from innocent individuals. Politely decline to answer questions without a criminal defense lawyer present.
Do Not Destroy Evidence
When panic sets in, some individuals make the catastrophic mistake of destroying documents, deleting emails, or tampering with financial records. This action can transform a potentially defensible case into an obstruction of justice charge, which carries its own severe penalties. Even if you believe certain materials are incriminating, leave all documentation intact and allow your defense attorney to review everything.
Experienced White Collar Defense Attorneys
You do not have to wait until you are arrested to seek defense help. White-collar criminal investigations are complex, involving detailed financial records, extensive documentation, and sophisticated legal strategies. You need an attorney with specific experience handling embezzlement and fraud cases who understands both South Carolina criminal law and federal regulations. At Eppes & Plumblee, we have over 30 years of experience defending clients against serious criminal charges throughout the Greenville area and beyond.
An experienced attorney can communicate with investigators on your behalf, protect you from making damaging statements, review the evidence being gathered against you, and begin building your defense strategy immediately. Early intervention can sometimes prevent charges from being filed altogether or significantly reduce the severity of the allegations.
Protect Your Professional and Personal Future With Our Greenville Criminal Defense Team
Your career, reputation, and freedom are at risk when facing allegations of embezzlement or fraud. These cases require strategic thinking, meticulous preparation, and aggressive advocacy. If you’re being investigated for embezzlement or fraud in South Carolina, contact Eppes & Plumblee today for a confidential consultation. Our dedicated legal team will stand by your side, fight for your rights, and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.