Do You Suspect a Business Partner is Stealing from the Company?

Do You Suspect a Business Partner is Stealing from the Company?

Do you suspect a business partner is stealing from the company?  Is a co-owner or officer of the corporation stealing or abusing corporate funds or assets for personal gain?  The first and perhaps most important advice is not to confront your business partner on your own, and certainly do not express suspicions without documented evidence.

The first step when you suspect a business partner of theft is to investigate all available records including bank statements, accounting and financial records, expense reports, receipts and company checks to document all income and expenses.  You’re looking for inconsistencies or unusual activity outside of business norms.

When you suspect a business partner is stealing from the company it is natural to want to put a stop to it as soon as possible.  This can include limitations on corporate credit and debit cards, and a call to your business banker or your experienced business attorney at the Watkins Firm to discuss potential strategies.  You never want to tip your hand too soon, as this may provide an opportunity for the culprit to cover their tracks, or use other methods of deception. You should also be concerned about protecting yourself from potential liability while attempting to gather evidence.  Speak with our attorneys for a free consultation to ensure you are protecting yourself while observing the law while you attempt to collect supporting evidence.

Cash drawers should be carefully monitored, and hidden surveillance cameras are quite affordable today.  Make sure to request detailed receipts that list every item, and the cost for each item.

The experienced business litigation and partnership dispute attorneys at the Watkins firm have more than four decades of experience in these matters.  These situations are always unfortunate, but our clients often not only have a financial interest in the matter, they often have a fiduciary duty to act.

We will work with you to understand your goals for the situation, and to put a stop to the activities that concern you.  We can direct your efforts to make sure that you follow all appropriate laws and preserve important evidence.  If you suspect a business partner is stealing from the company we invite you to review the strong recommendations of our clients and contact the Watkins Firm or call 858-535-1511 for a complimentary consultation today.

We will discuss your concerns and help you to put a plan into action to confirm or alleviate your suspicions.