Defending Against Theft, Embezzlement, and Fraud Charges in Tennessee

A violent crime charge in Tennessee can lead to severe penalties, including long-term imprisonment, heavy fines, and a permanent criminal record. Sluder Law, PLLC provides aggressive legal defense in Nashville and Middle Tennessee, challenging false accusations, protecting self-defense claims, and fighting to reduce or dismiss charges.

A theft, embezzlement, or fraud charge in Tennessee can have serious legal and financial consequences, including jail time, hefty fines, and a permanent criminal record that affects employment and future opportunities. Whether you are facing petty theft, grand larceny, white-collar crimes, or fraud-related charges, having an experienced criminal defense attorney is crucial to protecting your rights. At Sluder Law, PLLC, we provide aggressive legal representation  for individuals accused of theft, fraud, and embezzlement in Nashville, Davidson County, and Middle Tennessee. Our goal is to fight for dismissals, reduce charges, and minimize penalties to protect your reputation and future.


Types of Theft, Embezzlement, and Fraud Crimes in Tennessee

Tennessee law classifies theft-related offenses based on the value of stolen property or funds and the circumstances of the crime. Common charges include:

✔Misdemeanor Theft (Shoplifting) – Theft of property valued under $1,000
✔ Felony Theft (Felony Theft) – Theft of property valued over $1,000
✔ Embezzlement – Misappropriating funds or property entrusted to you
✔ Fraud – Deceptive practices for financial gain, including check fraud, credit card fraud, and identity theft
✔ Forgery – Falsifying documents for financial benefit
✔ White-Collar Crimes – Business-related financial crimes such as investment fraud, wire fraud, and bribery

Depending on the severity of the offense, theft and fraud crimes may be charged as misdemeanors or felonies.


Penalties for Theft, Embezzlement, and Fraud in Tennessee

✔ Misdemeanor Theft (Under $1,000 Value)

  • Jail time: Up to 11 months and 29 days
  • Fines up to $2,500


✔ Felony Theft ($1,000 or More)

  • Class E Felony ($1,000 - $2,500): 1 to 6 years in prison
  • Class D Felony ($2,500 - $10,000): 2 to 12 years in prison
  • Class C Felony ($10,000 - $60,000): 3 to 15 years in prison
  • Class B Felony ($60,000 - $250,000): 8 to 30 years in prison
  • Class A Felony (Over $250,000): 15 to 60 years in prison


✔ Fraud & Embezzlement

  • Potential state and federal charges
  • Significant fines and restitution payments
  • Permanent criminal record affecting professional licensing and employment


A theft or fraud conviction can also impact professional licenses, security clearances, and financial trustworthiness in business settings.


How Sluder Law, PLLC Fights Theft, Embezzlement, and Fraud Charges

At Sluder Law, PLLC, we use proven legal strategies to challenge the prosecution’s case and protect your rights. Our defense tactics include:


1. Challenging Evidence & Intent

✔ Were you wrongfully accused or mistakenly identified?
✔ Did law enforcement violate your rights during an investigation?
✔ Was there lack of intent or an honest misunderstanding?

We thoroughly examine police reports, surveillance footage, financial records, and witness statements to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.


2. Negotiating Reduced Charges or Dismissal

For first-time offenders, we work to:
✔ Reduce felony charges to misdemeanors
✔ Avoid jail time through probation or diversion programs
✔ Pursue case dismissal when evidence is weak


3. Defending Against Workplace & Financial Fraud Allegations

In cases of embezzlement, fraud, or white-collar crimes, we review bank statements, contracts, and business recordsto build a strong defense. Misunderstandings, clerical errors, or lack of fraudulent intent can often lead to reduced penalties or dropped charges.


What to Do If You Are Accused of Theft, Fraud, or Embezzlement

If you are facing theft or fraud charges in Tennessee, follow these steps to protect yourself:

✔ Do not talk to law enforcement – Anything you say can be used against you.
✔ Avoid discussing your case with others – Even casual conversations can be misinterpreted.
✔ Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately – The sooner you get legal help, the stronger your defense will be.


Why Choose Sluder Law, PLLC?

✔ Licensed in Tennessee, practicing in Davidson, Sumner, Williamson, Robertson, Rutherford, and Wilson counties
✔ Extensive experience handling theft, fraud, and white-collar crime cases
✔ Aggressive defense strategies to challenge evidence and reduce penalties
✔ Proven track record of dismissals, acquittals, and reduced charges


Protect Your Future – Contact Sluder Law, PLLC Today

A theft, embezzlement, or fraud charge can damage your reputation, career, and financial future. If you or a loved one is facing charges, Sluder Law, PLLC is ready to fight for your rights and defend your case.


☎ Call Now: (615) 934-0047