When at work, everyone wants to feel as though their
possessions are safe. Whether it's their phone or their wages, it’s important
that a level of trust is maintained in a working environment in order to
sustain a welcoming and harmonious atmosphere.
Yet, many still look to take advantage of other’s assets,
which has lead to a steady increase in economic crime
over the last seven years. Because of this, theft is seen as a serious case
both in the eyes of the law and by the businesses affected.
Whether it’s physical theft or large-scale fraud, commercial
crimes can land companies and individuals in extremely hot water, potentially
leading to exorbitant fines and significant jail time. With this in mind, it
can be especially frightening for those that have been unjustly accused.
If you’ve been accused of a crime that you have not
committed, it’s important to seek legal advice as soon as possible in order to
begin fighting the claim. However, although innocent, it’s unlikely that you
will know the ins and outs of such a process, meaning it can be difficult to
know what to do.
As expert solicitors, specialising in a range of fields
including theft, the team at Lefevre Solicitors understand the magnitude of the
situation you may be currently finding yourself in, which is why we’ve decided
to create this guide to help you find the legal help you need.
Understanding theft in the workplace
When looking at theft, it’s important to understand it as an
umbrella term. Arguably the most common type of stealing one may expect in a
work environment is tangible theft. This includes everything from taking food
from the fridge to stealing expensive equipment that would affect the running of
the business, such as computers and phones.
Depending on the rate and severity of the crime being
committed, businesses may decide to not bring the authorities in, however, they
are legally required
to carry out a
thorough internal investigation if a complaint is lodged.
White-collar crime
On the other hand, arguably the more serious type of theft
in the workplace falls under the term of ‘white-collar’ crime. Although you may
hear the term bandied around the office or on the television, it can be useful
to have a grasp on the term white-collar crime and how it affects businesses
throughout the world.
Typical white collar crimes that one might expect when at
work are wage theft, identity theft, embezzlement and copyright infringement. A
white collar crime, although non-violent, can cost an individual or business a
significant amount of money and can be life-changing for their victims.
Fraud alone costs
the UK private
sector £144 billion whilst costing individuals £10 billion; this goes to show
how big of an issue white-collar crime is and how stressful it can be to be
accused.
What to do if you’re accused of
theft
Being accused of theft, no matter how serious the
accusation, can be extremely stressful if unfounded. No one wants their
reputation tarnished or worse, litigation carried out against them, which is
why it’s important to know what steps to take before making any rash decisions.
To start with, if you have been dismissed by your employer
due to the accusation, you are legally allowed to submit an appeal against the
decision. On the other hand, if you feel as though the decision has been made
unfairly, you should be given the option to lodge a grievance or to talk to
your trade union if you are connected to one.
It is also important to collate all of the evidence that may
support you in order to bolster your case. If the above fails to absolve you,
you should seek legal advice from a professional in the field, especially if
you’re facing prosecution.
The benefits of enlisting the help of a defence
attorney
Taking the right steps when accused of theft should always
include seeking legal advice from a trained professional within the legal
field. Here are just a few of the benefits you can expect to receive from a
quality solicitor.
A specialist understanding
Although it can be tempting to try and fight your corner on
your own, it cannot be understated how complex a gauntlet the legal world can
be, especially when it comes down to cases involving theft.
A specialist solicitor and advisor will have thus have spent
years studying and specialising in their chosen legal field and will have
likely worked on countless cases similar to yours, meaning they are more than
qualified to help.
An unbiased opinion
Being accused of a crime you didn’t commit can dredge up a
lot of intense emotions, from fear to outright anger. With this in mind, it can
be especially difficult to keep a level-headed and unbiased view of the
situation.
By hiring the help of an advisor, you are able to understand
the situation from a neutral standpoint which in turn makes your case stronger.
Cost-saving
Again, the temptation to go it alone can steer some from
investing in legal advice, with many citing the cost-saving benefits as their
main reasoning. However, it’s important to ascertain the risk of fighting an
accusation alone, especially if a prosecution is hanging over your head.
By investing in legal help, you drastically increase the
chance of a positive result, meaning that you are more likely to save time and money
in the long run.
Supportive
As we’ve already mentioned, an accusation can be an
emotional experience for an individual and can be especially isolating if
believed by others. Although a solicitor is primarily there to give legal
advice and take on your case, they can also act as an important support line
during what can be an extremely difficult time.
Not sure which solicitor to choose?
Although it’s important to seek legal advice when it comes
to fighting your corner, it can be worrying to know who to trust with your
case. Luckily, by keeping the following considerations in mind, you can
separate the good from the bad and ensure you only invest in the most qualified
specialist.
The best way to do this is by setting up a meeting with your
prospective advisor. It will allow you to get a feel of the person who will
take on your case and will give you the chance to ask any questions you may
have about the process. It is essential to ask questions if you’re unsure as
your solicitor is here to help you.
It can also be useful to conduct a background check on the
law firm to see if what other people have said about their work. A simple
google search can help to give you an idea of their expertise, however, review
sites such as Yell.com can also be useful.
Lefevre Solicitors - Aberdeen’s premier
criminal law specialists
The idea of being accused of any crime that you haven’t
committed is always going to be a distressing experience. However, as you can
see, there is help at hand for those in need. A professional solicitor like
Lefevre Litigation can offer you expert legal advice and ensure that justice is
met.
As experts in a range of legal fields, from theft and fraud
to assault and drug-related offences, the team at Lefevre Litigation are here
to help you with your case. Offering
assistance through all aspects of the legal process, we are the premier choice
for your case in Aberdeen.
For more information on our range of legal
services or regarding how to set up an initial meeting,
visit our website or get in touch
with one of our advisors on 01224 657 657 to further discuss your requirements.
