Under employee theft laws, employee theft, or corporate theft or corporate fraud, is conduct that involves an employee embezzling, stealing, or misusing the resources or assets of the employer. This can involve the theft of anything from products, equipment, and cash to manipulating account records or abusing access to sensitive information.
There can be serious consequences for both an employee and an employer when workplace theft occurs. An employee may face losing their job as well as criminal charges and fines. An employer can face financial loss, harm to their reputation, and in some situations, legal consequences.
Can an Employee Theft Lawyer Help an Employer in Texas?
Yes, employee theft lawyers can help employers in Texas. Texas employee theft lawyers can help employers investigate employees allegedly engaging in theft.
An employee theft attorney can also represent an employer when occupational fraud has occurred. A lawyer can help a Texas employer investigate suspected theft by conducting interviews, reviewing financial records, and gathering criminal evidence.
An attorney can also help an employer understand their legal options, which may include criminal charges or filing a civil case. If an employer takes action against a worker, their attorney will file a lawsuit on their behalf and work with the local district attorney’s office and law enforcement to bring charges against the worker.
An employee theft attorney can also help a Texas employer to take steps to prevent theft in the future. This can include creating and implementing new policies and procedures, better internal controls, and training and educating workers on ethical behavior in the workplace.
Texas lawyers can help Texas employers who want to avoid workplace theft and who have already experienced the issue.
As an Employee, What if I Am Accused of Theft but Am Not Guilty?
It is important for Texas employees to be treated fairly when questions about workplace theft arise. A workplace attorney can help workers involved with theft issues at their work.
If a worker has been falsely accused of theft, their attorney can explain the steps they can take to protect themselves. It is important to have a legal consultation in Texas as soon as possible to fight against accusations of workplace theft.
Can an Employee Theft Lawyer Help an Employee in Texas?
Yes, workplace theft lawyers can help Texas employees whether they did commit theft or they have been wrongly accused. If a worker did, in fact, engage in theft in their workplace, their attorney can work with their employer to try and reach a resolution.
If a worker is falsely accused of theft and has faced consequences, there may be several claims they can make against their employer, including:
- Wrongful termination
- Discrimination
- Defamation
Wrongful Termination
If a worker was wrongfully terminated because of false theft accusations, they may have a claim for wrongful discharge. This issue arises when a worker’s employer terminates them in violation of public policy or applicable laws, such as without sufficient evidence or in violation of the proper procedures.
It is important to be aware, however, that employment in Texas is at-will. This means that, unless there is an agreement or employment contract that states otherwise, an employer can fire a worker at any time and for any reason, or even for no reason.
Discrimination
If a worker thinks they have been falsely accused of theft because of their religion, race, gender, or other protected characteristic, they may have a claim for discrimination.
Defamation
If a worker is falsely accused of workplace theft, they may have a claim for employment-related defamation of character. If false statements are made that harms a worker’s reputation, defamation has occurred.
In the workplace context, this can occur if an employer makes false statements about the worker, such as telling others they are a thief. To have a successful legal claim, a worker will need to show that these statements were made with reckless disregard for the truth or with malice.
In Texas, What Steps Do I Take if I Have Been Accused of Employee Theft?
If a worker is accused of employee theft in Texas, it does not automatically mean they will lose their job or they are guilty. There are steps a worker can take to protect themselves.
First, it is essential to consult with a Texas employment attorney as soon as possible. Next, a worker can file a complaint with the human resources (HR) department at their company.
If the issue cannot be resolved internally, a worker can file a lawsuit in civil court. A worker’s employment attorney will be able to guide them during the entire process, including any administrative steps they have to take through their employer.
As an Employer in Texas, How Can I Avoid Employee Theft?
Employers in Texas can take steps to guard against employee theft in their workplace, including, but not limited to the following.
Conducting background checks
Employee background checks are one of the best ways employers can avoid workplace theft. These checks can include the potential worker’s credit history, criminal record, and references.
Creating a strong company culture
It is important to create a strong company culture that includes valuing ethics and integrity. This can be done by having clear expectations, requiring ethics training, and rewarding workers who engage in ethical behavior.
Implementing internal controls
It is important for a Texas employer to implement internal controls so that it is difficult for workers to steal. This can include taking steps such as regular audits, dual control systems, and separating duties.
Monitoring inventory and financial records
It is essential to closely monitor financial records and inventory to see if there are any discrepancies or irregularities. This can be done by conducting spot checks, regular audits, and reviewing bank statements.
Limiting access to sensitive information
Access to sensitive information and financial systems should be limited. It can be helpful to restrict areas of the workplace and have multiple levels of review and approval for financial transactions.
Encouraging reporting
Workers should be encouraged to report any unethical conduct or suspected theft. It can be helpful to allow workers to report anonymously.
Do I Need a Wrongful Termination Lawyer?
If you are an employer or an employee who is having issues with theft at your workplace, a Texas wrongful termination lawyer can help. If you believe you have been wrongfully terminated from your position, your lawyer can help you fight for compensation for your lost wages and other losses.
If you are an employer, your workplace attorney can help ensure that you follow the proper procedures for taking care of the issue. Workplace theft situations can be difficult for everyone who is involved, so having legal representation is essential.
Take advantage of LegalMatch’s no cost attorney matching services today to find a Texas lawyer who can help you with your workplace theft issue in as little as 15 minutes. The LegalMatch platform allows you to submit your issue and select your location and any preferences you may have about your attorney, such as languages they can speak.
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