Hello, I would like to thank you in advance for reading my post, the situation is something i dont know how to get a grip on, and i hope that you can help me clear my thinking so that i may resolve this situation in the correct manner.
Here is the scenario:
I went to work about a year ago for a doctor whos medical company operates in 11 major metro areas. The scope of the practice is vast and they were extremely mismanaged at the time. I was hired as his executive assistant, but soon i was made responsible for the companys operations and business development units.
My tenure with this company was rough to say the least, and as i became more involved with operating details, i beacme aware that we (the company) were in violation of many statues and laws in the various states where we operated. I also discovered that my ceo (the doctor) had been previously been investigated for non compliance issues, tax issues and a plethora of other issues. I should also mention at this point that he is not an emotionally stable person and often flares up and accuses his employees of things they are not guilty of. Overall he is a very difficult man to work for.
Recently, there was an indicident at the office where him and I had a confrontation, which resulted in me telling him that I was going to resign. I also mentioned to him at this time that as VP of the company, I had recieved correspondence from more than one private investigator and law enforcement agency inquiring about various aspects of our operational and accounting detail, and that while I had dodged most of thier questions to his point, that i was no longer inclined to defend his position should they pursue me on their queries. (also note that at the time of this incident, the company is being looked at by a private equity firm that may be interested in buying them out)
A few days later, i was called into his office, and he asked me what it woudl take for me to keep what i knew to myself. Essenntially we agreed to a sale price for my silence and that number was $35K. It was agreed, and on my last day at the company I was quietly handed a check for this amount, Which i proceeded to deposite into my private account. We did not sign any paperwork.
Recently, I have been informed (by a former colleague who still works there) that my former employer is seeking to press charges against me for check theft and forgery, claiming that the above transaction never occurred and that i stole a company check and forged my CEO's signature (please also note that i DO NOT and never did have access to the companys books, AR/AP, or financials)
What can i do? I know that i need to hire a lawyer... but what is the extent to which my former employer can pursue this and what are my options when it comes to defending myself and proving my case. Bear in mind that this whole thing was very hush hush and everyone at the organization was shocked to see me leave so abruptly.
Thank you again for your time and advice.

