Essential Tips for Selecting the Perfect Criminal Lawyer in Stillwater

Finding the proper legal representation is paramount to ensure a fair and just outcome when facing legal issues. Whether you’re dealing with an offense or a serious felony charge, navigating the complexities of the legal system can be overwhelming. Choosing a highly skilled and experienced criminal lawyer such as Eric Thole, who effectively defends your rights and provides essential guidance, is paramount in ensuring your legal needs.

This comprehensive guide walks you through the essential factors when selecting a criminal lawyer in Stillwater by evaluating their expertise, track record, communication skills, and approach to your case.

Importance of choosing the right lawyer 

Choosing the right criminal lawyer is crucial for legal charges. An experienced lawyer can significantly impact your case, protecting your rights and securing the best resolution. Utilizing their extensive expertise in criminal law, they adeptly maneuver through the intricate legal landscape, formulating a robust defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances.

A skilled lawyer also excels in negotiation, potentially securing reduced charges or plea bargains. In addition, they gather evidence, interview witnesses, and analyze case details, uncovering vital information to strengthen your defense. Moreover, a reputable criminal lawyer provides emotional support and guidance throughout the legal process, recognizing the impact of charges on individuals. By selecting the right criminal lawyer, you gain a powerful ally who vigorously fights for your rights and strives for the best outcome in your case.

Tips to Choose a Perfect Criminal Lawyer

Choosing the ideal criminal attorney is vital when confronted with legal allegations in Stillwater. A skilled and experienced attorney can significantly impact the outcome of your case. However, with numerous legal professionals to choose from, the task can be overwhelming. 

So, in this blog, we’ll outline tips to help you find the ideal criminal lawyer for your case in Stillwater, ensuring you receive the best possible legal representation.

• Evaluate expertise and specialization

Criminal law is complex, and lawyers often specialize in specific areas. Find a criminal attorney with a demonstrated history of success and substantial expertise in managing cases similar to yours. Whether you’re facing charges related to DUI, assault, or drug offenses, an attorney with expertise in your specific legal issue will possess the necessary knowledge and strategies to build a strong defense.

• Assess reputation and success rate

Selecting a criminal lawyer hinges on the significance of reputation. Research the attorney’s reputation within the legal community and among past clients. Online reviews, testimonials, and referrals can provide valuable insights into their professionalism, competence, and track record of success. A highly successful lawyer is likelier to achieve favorable client outcomes.

• Consider local experience

Opting for a criminal lawyer with local experience in Stillwater can provide significant advantages. First, they will deeply understand the local legal system, including the prosecutors, judges, and courtroom procedures. This familiarity can enable them to anticipate potential challenges and tailor their defense strategy accordingly, increasing the chances of a positive outcome.

• Personal compatibility and communication

Building a solid attorney-client relationship is crucial for adequate representation. Schedule an initial consultation to assess the lawyer’s communication style and determine if you feel comfortable discussing your case with them. A reliable criminal lawyer should actively listen, provide clear explanations, and offer honest advice. Select a trustworthy individual who prioritizes your concerns and consistently provides updates on the advancement of your case.

• Fee structure and budget

Discuss the lawyer’s fee structure during the initial consultation to avoid surprises later. Ensure you comprehensively comprehend the billing procedure and correlated expenses, as legal professionals may levy a fixed charge, bill by the hour, or necessitate a retainer. Consider your budget and seek a criminal lawyer who provides reasonable rates without compromising quality.

Conclusion

Choosing the right criminal defense lawyer in Stillwater is a critical step toward securing the best possible outcome for your case. Evaluate expertise, reputation, local experience, personal compatibility, and availability to make an informed decision. In addition, remember to consider your budget and ensure clear communication about fees. Following these essential tips increases your chances of finding a skilled and reliable criminal lawyer to defend your rights and interests vigorously. Finally, don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance when facing criminal charges in Stillwater – the right lawyer can make all the difference.

5 Benefits of Hiring a White Collar Crime Lawyer

White-collar crimes involve non-violent actions that are committed by a public official or business person that typically involve the use of deception. No violence or weapons is used in white-collar crimes, so the proof takes the form of a paper trial, which can be followed to find the actual details of the crime.

If you have been arrested with white-collar crime charges, contacting a lawyer immediately is in your best interest to learn more about your legal options. Lawyers who understand the complex legal process and have extensive experience handling white-collar crime cases will be able to deliver you the best legal representation.

Here are some benefits of hiring a White-Collar Crime Lawyer

●     Custom Solutions

No two cases are the same because every business and every client is unique. Therefore, each case needs attention to detail and a thorough investigation of all circumstances. These include internal investigations, corporate compliance, and more. As a result, many complicating facts, and the only person with experience in white-collar crimes will know precisely where to look, what to look for, and how to work closely with you to create a tailored strategy for your needs.

●     A More Profitable Settlement

In some circumstances, the best result is a compromise. A qualified lawyer with experience in this region of law can help you make the right compromise with the authorities or other parties. For example, a good compromise may cut the fines or revenue fees you must pay and let you settle the problem while keeping a robust way forward for you or your business.

●     Help for Any Situation

An attorney with a general practice may be extremely skilled. Still, they are improbable to have the same experience in the multiple areas of defense that a white-collar crimes lawyer has. Many situations qualify as white-collar offenses, like fraud, conspiracy, trafficking in counterfeit goods, political corruption, anti-trust or environmental law violations, and more. A professional white-collar crime lawyer like Eric Thole has experience in all these areas and can give you the strong defense you deserve and the best opportunity for a positive outcome.

●     Access to an Extensive Network

One of the most challenging things about a white-collar crime charge is that those who are after you have everything on their side: motivation, massive resources, and extensive knowledge of every law, act, statute, and regulation that could have a bearing on your claim. Professional white-collar crime lawyers have corresponding expertise and resources to defend you.

●     Preventative Help

Laws and rules are obtuse and extensive. Some regulations could be more intentionally challenging to understand. But, unfortunately, that intricacy works in vogue of the government and against the person. It means it’s effortless for the management to find something a company has done wrong and very hard for a company to cover all its grounds.

Conclusion

A white-collar crime charge is serious. Convictions for white-collar crimes can and do upend lives and companies for life. An average lawyer cannot handle your case if you’ve been charged with such a crime. Instead, work with qualified, experienced white-collar crime professional Eric Thole Attorney at Law, who can get you the best possible results.

5 Exclusive Quick Tips to Find a Lawyer

Finding the best lawyer can be daunting and choosing the wrong one could have horrible outcomes. A quick tip is to pick your lawyer; the method of finding a good and reputable lawyer is a challenging one. You need to ensure that you can find someone who will take your case seriously.

In this blog post, we will discuss tips that will help you find a skilled lawyer for your case. Follow these tips, and you will be on your way to finding an excellent Criminal Defence Attorney.

Here are some quick tips for finding a lawyer

1.    Do Your Research

Before you even start to look for a lawyer; you must do your research and get a good understanding of the laws relevant to your situation. Knowing your rights and the types of damage available will help you make an informed decision when finding the right lawyer for your case.

Also, looking at lawyers in your area and reading reviews can give you a better understanding. When researching, it is also essential to ensure the lawyer or company you are looking at specializes in your case.

2.    Seek Referrals

Referrals from friends, family, and trusted professionals are a great way to start your search for an attorney. By getting referrals, you can get insight into the quality of services delivered by different attorneys in the same field of expertise as yours. Moreover, referrals are an excellent way to determine the attorneys’ fees and terms of service and compare them with your budget. Ultimately, referrals also give you a chance to get a personal perspective on the lawyer’s nature and approach, which can help you choose whether or not they are the best fit for your case.

Read More: https://ericthole.blogspot.com/2022/12/top-benefits-of-hiring-criminal-defense.html

3.   Schedule a Consultation

Once your research is done, check your list to the top three, then call to plan consultations. Most lawyers will meet with you for at least a brief talk without charging you. Moreover, pay attention to whether the person who answers the call is polite and accommodating.

4.    Look for Testimonials/Reviews

Reading the reviews from past clients can give priceless insight into the quality of services delivered by a lawyer. In addition, reviews can help you determine whether or not a particular lawyer has the expertise and experience to take your case. However, be sure to pay attention to negative reviews, as they could point out possible problems with a lawyer that you should consider before making any decision.

5.   Ask the Right Questions

When you sit with the attorney, it’s a good idea to prepare a list of questions. It will ensure that you make good use of your time and don’t forget anything vital.

Some questions you can ask include:

• How long have you been practicing?
• Do you specialize in cases like mine?
• How much is my case worth?
• How usually do you take cases to court vs. setting?
• How and when will I need to pay?
• Who will be handling my case?

If you need a lawyer, take the time to review these tips. If you have been charged with a crime and need a criminal defense attorney, contact Eric Thole Attorney at Law, who would be glad to discuss your case and plan your defense.

7 Foremost Challenges Facing Criminal Defence Attorneys

Becoming a criminal defense lawyer is difficult enough, but the challenges don’t stop after you have passed the bar. Attorneys must be emotionally secure and painfully aware that their actions could change someone’s life, for better or worse. Even a few mistakes could cost your career. Most people agree that being a Criminal Defense Lawyer is not easy. The nature of the job itself deals with sensitive and usually severe problems and can lead to harsh results.

Here are the challenges criminal lawyers face in their careers

1.    Balancing Work And Home

Let’s start with a common problem many people with professional careers face. With such a sensitive and important job as being a criminal lawyer, one should be extra careful and alert with every action and decision. Naturally, this needs more focus, more resources, and, most importantly, more time. It is one of the significant challenges that defense lawyers face. They must be able to keep a good relationship with their clients and deal with the stress of defending them without any problems.

2.    Running Your Own Firm

Many criminal lawyers will work under a large firm, but some run a business. The main goal of a defense lawyer is to make sure that the right of their client’s case can be very challenging when the lawyer does not work for a big firm that can deliver them resources to succeed.

3.    Clients Withholding Information

Clients sometimes withhold information as they are afraid of being judged. If you’re a client, hire an attorney you can trust. For example, Eric Thole Criminal Defense Lawyers are here to help you fight for your freedom, regardless of who you are or what you have done.

Eric Thole works closely with clients and the prosecution to pursue every option for getting charges dismissed or reduced and find alternative restitution forms.

4.    Working With Frustrating Clients

Any client-based work will have its proper share of demanding clients, but criminal defense lawyers usually deal with frustrating people. Of course, it isn’t their fault; the law is a sensitive, usually terrifying topic for defendants. Still, that doesn’t mean it won’t wind up with these attorneys.

5.    Beating The Competition

Fortunately, crime speeds are dropping all over the country, but that isn’t always useful to a defense lawyer’s career. It makes it challenging to find clients. With fierce competition, many attorneys will undercut themselves or give their services free to get some experience.

6.    Negative Public Perception

Public perception of criminal defense lawyers is often low as they are “defending criminals.” The media doesn’t help this reputation, but criminal defense lawyers are far from evil. Everyone has the right to be defended in court, which we usually take for granted.

7.    Finding The Right Evidence

A single bit of evidence can make or break a case in a criminal defense trial. Unfortunately, getting your hands on such proof isn’t easy. Attorneys must go through the proper channels to make sure that what they collect is acceptable in court. Otherwise, they will have to use something else.

Conclusion

Criminal defense lawyers are also human and just as prone to stress and challenges as any other profession. It can be a brutal battle sometimes, but with enough perseverance, any criminal lawyer can learn to deal with these issues. However, you can contact Eric Thole, Attorney at Law, to schedule a free initial consultation. He has the hands-on experience and skill to protect your rights and interests.

Best Tips to Hire a Good Lawyer for Criminal Defense in Minnesota

If you are facing criminal charges, it is essential to consider hiring an experienced criminal lawyer. It doesn’t matter whether you are innocent or guilty; having a good defense is the only way to go. In addition, it will help underestimate the damage and maximum impact the arrest could generate on your life. Therefore, choosing a criminal defense lawyer is essential because this would translate to walking away free instead of being detained. The following are some of the tips to think about when hiring a criminal lawyer including:

Tips to consider before hiring a criminal defense lawyer include:

❖    Shop around

You do not have to hire the services of the first lawyer you come across. Finding the right lawyer takes time. When buying an essential product or service, you do not pick the first product/service you find. If you are meeting with a potential candidate, he/she will understand. However, if the lawyer’s attitude changes, this is a sign that they are insecure and is likely not the best lawyer for you.

❖    Lawyer Should Be Responsive

If you face criminal charges like DUI vs. DWI in Minnesota, your freedom could be at stake instantly. The prosecutor and police will try to suspend your license and, in some cases, may even seek jail time. Your Criminal Defense Attorney should return your calls promptly and respond all your queries. If the attorney seems challenging to reach, it is a red flag that they are not responsive enough to represent you if you have DUI vs DWI Minnesota charges.

❖    Specializes in Minnesota Criminal Law

Look for an attorney who spends most of their time working as a local Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney. Sometimes it’s pleasing to hire someone who has helped you in another type of case. Your attorney should know all the laws and have experience as a criminal defense lawyer. If they don’t have in-depth criminal law knowledge, you must look elsewhere for a Criminal Defense Attorney.

❖    Reputation

It is essential to find an attorney with a good reputation. A flashy ad should not in any way deceive you. However, it is essential to do your homework. Many leading criminal defense attorneys do not advertise in the Yellow Pages. On the other hand, many good lawyers like Eric Thole will handle your case smoothly. Reading through the customer reviews offers you a good idea about the lawyer’s ability.

❖    Specializes in Minnesota Criminal Law

Look for an attorney who spends most of their time working as a local Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney. Sometimes it’s pleasing to hire someone who has helped you in another type of case. Your attorney should know all the laws and have experience as a criminal defense lawyer. If they don’t have in-depth criminal law knowledge, you must look elsewhere for a Criminal Defense Attorney.

❖    Ask for Referrals

Consult your personal and business contacts. Ask your family and friends if they have any good experiences with criminal defense lawyers. It is beneficial if you know someone who has been charged with DUI vs. DWI in Minnesota. In addition, attorneys who specialize in other areas, such as personal injury and estate planning, can refer you to an amazing criminal defense lawyer.

❖    Legal fees

It is essential to understand the nature of the fees chargeable. There are many criminal lawyers who offer the option of flat rates for their hourly fees or legal services. The right lawyer must be in a position to explain these choices in great detail. It will help you make an informed decision. Therefore, you will not have to pick the most beneficial option for the law firm. Hiring a criminal defense lawyer is a big decision. However, you can contact Eric Thole Attorney at Law, to plan a free initial consultation. He has the hands-on experience and skill to defend your rights and interests.

How To Hire The Right Lawyer For Marijuana Possession Charges?

Are you charged with possession of marijuana or distribution? If so, you have the right to fight the charges. An experienced lawyer can help. One of the most damaging criminal charges you can face is Marijuana Drug Charges. Not only will it carry stiff fines, but it can also impact many facets of your life for years to come. Below you will find the ways to hire the right attorney for marijuana possession charges.

Factors to consider when hiring a drug possession lawyer

●     Experience

Experience is the main factor when hiring a marijuana possession lawyer. It shows that the attorney understands the working of the law. Therefore, you have to ensure that you only choose an attorney who has successfully handled drug possession cases. Find an experienced attorney like Eric Thole, who focuses on the defense of drug charges and will help you better.

●     Portfolio

It is essential to consider the competence of the Marijuana possession attorney. It would be best if you found a lawyer with solid credentials specific to you. It would be best if you chose an attorney with the right academic qualifications and one specializing in drug offenses.

●     Communication

Finding a qualified attorney who comprehends the complexities of the law and the court is essential. In addition, you want an attorney who will communicate virtually with you.

The marijuana possession lawyer must ensure you understand the information clearly and concisely without using complex legal terminology. Good communication with your criminal defense lawyer is key to the thriving solution of your case. The attorney will give you various choices before deciding on the action plan.

●     Referrals

You need to include referrals in finding the right marijuana possession attorney. You may have many people close to you who may have been arrested for possessing drugs. Moreover, experiences from other customers will help you hire the right drug possession lawyer. Ask around to get to know their reputation.

●     Accessibility

The attorney you choose should be available for your case. Choose the one that doesn’t have many cases to solve. Your case may be on the waiting list if the attorney deals with many cases. Moreover, a lawyer based in your local area is the right option, as drug laws vary in different jurisdictions.

Eric Thole inspects the facts to determine whether the client’s constitutional rights were violated. For example, if the police illegally seized or searched you or failed to give fair warnings, he can work to have proof thrown out and your case dismissed. If you or your kid faces marijuana possession charges, get immediate legal help. Eric Thole Attorney at Law will find a competent, strong defense against marijuana drug charges. He knows that everyone makes mistakes. Moreover, he will help you overcome your charge to move forward with your life.

Punishment for Marijuana Possession in Minnesota USA

Minnesota is one of the multiple states to have decriminalized the possession of small amounts of marijuana. However, there are limits to how much you can have at any given time. Being aware of the rules of possession and the possible penalties can help you to avoid unwanted criminal charges. If you face this issue, contact Eric Thole Attorney at Law, criminal defense for marijuana and other drug crime defense concerns.

Growing and selling weed are felony crimes in Minnesota. Depending on the amount of pot involved, you may face anywhere from five to 30 years in prison and max fines ranging from $10,000 to one million dollars. Importing marijuana into the state and spreading marijuana in a school zone are also felony crimes and steep penalties.

Penalties for marijuana possession

Penalties and fines, including:

1. 42.5 grams or less = Misdemeanor charge, $200 fine, no jail time
2. Having more than 1.4 grams in a vehicle = Misdemeanor charge, $1,000 fine, 90 days in jail
3. 42.5 grams to 10 kg = Felony charge, $10,000 fine, five years in jail
4. 10 to 50 kg = Felony charge, $250,000 fine, 20 years in jail
5. 50 to 100 kg = Felony charge, $500,000 fine, 25 years in jail
6. More than 100 kg = Felony charge, $1,000,000 fine, 30 years in jail

Drug charges based on marijuana possession are serious legal issues. When a person is alleged to have large quantities of the substance, they may worry about their future and the consequences of a possible conviction. They have choices, however, and may have opportunities to lessen or avoid the penalties associated with their charges.

Marijuana in a motor vehicle

Regardless of what you get charged with, there can be an extra charge if you are caught with marijuana in your vehicle. There is an exception to the small amount of marijuana law, and that is drug possession of more than 1.4 grams of marijuana in a vehicle is a misdemeanor crime. The maximum fine for the offense is $1,000, and the person convicted of the offense can face a jail penalty of up to 90 days. Also, a person guilty of this misdemeanor will have their driver’s license revoked for 30 days.

Minnesota medical marijuana

In 2015, Minnesota passed a medical marijuana program that permits possession of a 30-day supply of marijuana under narrow and strict conditions.

Discuss your case with Eric Thole, drug crimes attorney

You will find a smart, strong defense against marijuana drug charges at the Thole Law Firm. Attorney Eric Thole knows that everyone makes mistakes. So he will help you overcome your charge to move forward with your life. Eric Thole strives to build strong juvenile defense strategies that help juveniles avoid punishment and offer an opportunity for minors to learn from their mistakes. His goal is always to get your child a second chance. Contact Stillwater marijuana possession lawyer Eric Thole today!

Best Ways to Choose a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

Are you facing DUI, theft, or any other criminal charge? If so, you should immediately hire an experienced criminal defense lawyer to handle your case. However, with hundreds of criminal defense lawyers, it might be challenging to select the right prospect. Who do you trust to define your case in courts? So, these tips will help you to choose the best criminal defense lawyer for your case.

The right attorney should have a passion for what they do. You don’t require an average attorney to appear for your case. Instead, you need a passionate criminal defense attorney who loves what they do. Eric Thole Attorney at Law will listen to your story, and fight for you.

Tips To Help You Find A Criminal Defense Lawyer

Tips that can help you find a criminal lawyer after being charged with a crime include:

1.    Search for a lawyer with experience handling your type of case

Understanding the nature of your crime is important for choosing the right criminal lawyer to take your case. First, you want an attorney that specializes in criminal law. For example, you do not want to hire a personal injury lawyer if you are charged with guns and assault.

You need to hire an attorney who handles cases similar to your lawsuit. Many lawyers list the types of cases they take on their websites. If you are facing murder charges, you want to hire a criminal defense attorney like Eric Thole, who has handled numerous murder cases, instead of choosing a lawyer who has only managed one or two homicide cases.

2.    Check Licensing and Reviews

Check the attorney is licensed to practice law in Texas before you hire an attorney. The attorney bio contains a list of courts of admittance (courts where an attorney can represent clients). It also provides information about the attorney’s training, the date of bar admittance, and the date the attorney graduated from law school.

Some of the most valuable information is the public disciplinary history. For example, if the attorney has been disciplined, you would want further information before hiring the lawyer.

3.    Years of Experience

Many skillful lawyers have been practicing for a short time. However, the years of experience as an attorney matter a lot. There are things that an attorney cannot learn in law school. Likewise, there are skills that an attorney can only learn by practicing law in the real world. However, experience is not the only standard you want to look for when you hire a lawyer. Experience does not equally sound legal advice or a solid attorney-client relationship. Consider the attorney’s qualifications when determining the right attorney.

4.    Reviews and Referrals

Make sure that you read testimonials and reviews from past clients. However, referrals may be the best method for choosing a criminal defense lawyer. If you know an attorney in another field of practice, ask the attorney who they would decide if they required a criminal defense lawyer. People in the justice system know which attorneys are reliable, have a winning record, and are respected by peers, judges, and court personnel.

5.    Ask about the legal team

Take a moment to learn more about the law company staff members. You will work with a legal team when you have a lawyer. Therefore, you want to confirm that the law firm has the resources and staff to simultaneously handle your case and other cases.

It is right to ask about the legal experience of the people working on your case. Companies with inexperienced and new staff members may not be the best criminal defense law firm to handle your case.

Eric Thole is likely familiar with the prosecutors and judges involved in your case. He and his experienced legal team examine all options that protect clients’ immediate and long-term interests. He does not accept plea bargains that do not live up to this goal and is prepared to support clients to the appellate court if required.

Guide to Handle Terroristic Threat Cases in Stillwater

Are you facing terroristic threat charges? Get a former prosecutor on your side today. Eric Thole, Attorney at Law, provides strong, effective legal defense to individuals throughout Washington County who have been charged with terroristic threats.

You will find a Stillwater lawyer at the Thole Law Firm who understands that even the right people make bad choices. Feelings become exaggerated in the heat of the moment, and people say things they don’t mean. Eric Thole can attack the prosecution’s case and undermine the prosecution’s evidence to show clients did not have the intention to commit the threatened act and aim to get the clients’ charges lessened or dismissed.

Attorney Eric Thole gives clients unique insight into the inner workings of the criminal justice system. Although Mr. Thole knows the steps the prosecutor will likely take against you, he can use proactive defense techniques that may help undermine the prosecution’s claim.

What Types of Threats Include Terroristic Threats?

The law covers the threat of physical injury to the victim, including threats to kill a person. Moreover, threats to harm or kill a person other than the victim may be deemed as terroristic threats. The threat does not have to be against a person, however. For example, threatening to damage property of interest to the victim may also be a terroristic threat.

Any domestic violence case has profound implications for both the victim and the accused. Therefore, each case’s specific possibilities and facts are essential in cases of terroristic threats. If you find yourself involved with a terroristic threat case in Stillwater, contact Eric Thole. He handles each case with honesty and integrity.

Protecting Against Terroristic Threats

Eric Thole understands the significance of handling clients’ cases efficiently and calmly. Being charged with a felony can cause humiliation and public scrutiny. It may even put your job in danger. Mr. Thole can start your defense before rehearsal and work to get your expenses dropped so you can avoid trial, avoid the court of public view, and move forward with your life.

You will face serious criminal charges if you have been charged with a terroristic threat. Defend your rights, your freedom, and your record. Contact the Thole Law Firm for a skilled lawyer who knows how to protect against terroristic threats in Stillwater. He is an experienced lawyer who can handle your case calmly and give you the best possible results.

Methods to Handle and Spot Employee Theft

The matter of employee theft involves anything from stealing office supplies and padding time to committing fraud. Eric Thole, attorney at law, highlights that most employee theft occurs out of the opportunity. Employees either didn’t know the policies, or the employer made the mistake of putting one person in charge of the finances. Eric Thole advises you to have a check and balance system to avoid money theft. Hire employees with separate authorization, record keeping, and asset custody (bank statement or credits/edits the invoice).

Signs Of Spotting Employee Theft

It is hard to detect employee theft, especially if someone is talented at hiding it. Be alert to these red flags-

• Cash amount discrepancies
• Missing inventory/supplies
• Changes in employee behavior
  • refusal to hand over tasks to others
  • unusual working hours
  • poor work performance
  • unjustified complaints about employment
  • defensive attitude while reporting on work
  • unexplained favoritism towards a supplier/customer
  • a personal lifestyle not matching the salary

Methods To Handle Employee Theft

●    Conduct Pre-Employment Background Check

Small businesses are potentially high marks for problematic employees. Be a part of the hiring process to eliminate such a threat. Eric Thole advises you to invest in employee screening to conduct a comprehensive background check before hiring anyone. It mitigates the chances of recruiting a risky hire for the job.

●    Define Company Guidelines and Policies

Another way to protect your business from theft is by providing employees with clear company guidelines in a company handbook. Eric Thole, attorney at law, directs you to explicitly outline your company policies & procedures and give them to employees on their first day at work after a signed acknowledgment.

Such a handbook becomes valuable documentation in case of a lawsuit as it possesses your company’s expectations, ground rules, and acceptable/not acceptable behavior of employees in detail. It helps in holding employees accountable for their actions. It also opens communication for setting company expectations and ethical standards.

●    Determine the Need for Investigation

You got a report of potential employee theft in your company. Now, how to handle it?

Eric Thole advises you to get an account of the situation before involving legal guns. For example, an employee theft report is sometimes a miscommunication or an unclear employee practice. Remember, legal action without investing in the facts can leave you vulnerable to an employment lawsuit.

Therefore, look at the facts, get to the bottom of the story, and identify whether it is an isolated incident with one person accusing another or an ongoing activity with several witnesses for the action. Weigh the situation first-

• What kind of theft has occurred?
• Is it a one-time act or a regular act?
• Did the employee in question make an honest mistake?
• Did the employee in question do the same with the past employers too?
• Is there a defined company policy about such actions, and does the employee know it?

Eric Thole advises you to look carefully at all aspects of a reported incident before launching a full-blown investigation.

●    Report and Document

Once you have enough evidence to proceed with an investigation, talk to the accused employee and ask for an explanation. If you have CCTV cameras on the premises, check the footage.

If the camera clearly shows the theft incident or you have a significant number of witnesses, you can terminate the employee for misconduct without any explanation. Also, alert law enforcement if you need legal action.

(In situation after investigation) Eric Thole, attorney at law, suggests that if you decide to terminate an employee, use ‘misconduct’ instead of ‘theft’ as a reason for termination to avoid defamation claims from the former employee.

●    Promote Honest Work Culture

The best way to promote an ethical work culture is by making employees aware of the company’s code of conduct. Hold training seminars on ethics to inform employees about the guidelines and company expectations and indulge in role-playing activities to teach proper behavior positively.

Conclusion

Eric Thole advises you to communicate background checks and company expectations/policies to the employees. If you communicate your expectations and have a provision in place in the event of a problem, you can safeguard your business to a great extent.