Embezzlement Attorney In Southern California
Accused of Embezzlement? Shield Law, APC Can Help You Protect Your Future
You may feel like your entire world is collapsing if you’ve been accused of embezzlement—an overwhelming situation that can be both frightening and devastating. Whether the accusations are entirely false, if you made an honest accounting mistake, or you unintentionally got wrapped up in a misunderstanding, the consequences you face could be severe.
You could potentially face hefty fines, time behind bars, and irreversible damage to your professional reputation and personal life. If you find yourself under investigation or facing serious charges, it's vital to seek the guidance of a skilled California embezzlement lawyer from Shield Law, APC, who can help you mount a strong and effective defense.
At Shield Law, APC, our knowledgeable legal team understands that not all financial discrepancies in bookkeeping or transactions warrant a criminal conviction. We recognize that every case is unique and requires a personalized approach.
No matter what the circumstances of your situation may be, an experienced and persuasive attorney from our firm can help ensure that the prosecution, judge, and jury fully comprehend your side of the story. We are deeply committed to helping you safeguard your rights and aggressively fight to clear your name, providing the support and advocacy you need during this challenging time.
Call Shield Law, APC at 323-310-4636 to schedule a free 30 minute consultation with a lawyer today.
Understanding Embezzlement Charges
Under California’s Penal Code, embezzlement is defined as the fraudulent taking of assets, money, or property that an individual or organization entrusted to you for management or guarding. Embezzlement cases are different from standard theft cases because they involve the initial legal acquisition of assets and accusations of diversion or misuse of these assets for personal financial advantage.
Examples of embezzlement include an employee making false expense reports to use a company’s funds or a financial advisor or trustee using client funds for unauthorized means. A worker who takes money from a business cash register or transfers their business’s money to their own personal accounts may also be charged with embezzlement.
Embezzlement crimes may be classified under the following categories:
- Petty theft embezzlement. If the amount involved has a value of less than $950, embezzlement could be classified as a misdemeanor.
- Grand theft embezzlement. Embezzlement cases involving assets valued at $950 or more could be charged as felonies.
- Aggravated cases. If a significantly large amount of money is involved or if the defendant was in a particular position of trust, their penalties could be increased significantly.
Penalties for embezzlement are dependent on the value of the property or money involved in the
crime, whether the case was classified as grand theft or petty
theft, and the defendant’s criminal history. An
attorney from our firm can help you understand the specific penalties you may be facing based on your charges.
Defense Strategies a Southern California Embezzlement Lawyer Can Help You Leverage
Fortunately, even if you are facing charges for an investment crime, it does not automatically mean that you will be convicted. A fierce and empathetic criminal defense attorney from Shield Law, APC, can help you take concrete steps to safeguard your interests and explore your legal options to defend your case.
Depending on your case details, it may be optimal to show that you did not intentionally permanently take any property or money, highlight that funds were misplaced due to misunderstandings or financial mistakes, or state that there is not sufficient evidence to lead to your conviction.
From negotiating on your behalf to fighting for you in the courtroom, we are prepared to do what it takes for your freedom.
FAQS
How Is Embezzlement Different From Theft?
Embezzlement is different from theft because it involves an individual who is legally entrusted to handle money or asset transferring, and abusing the assets for personal gain. Cases of theft do not involve a prior entrustment of an individual with the victim’s property or assets. An experienced lawyer can help you understand how your embezzlement charges are different from traditional theft charges and how they could affect your case.
What Are Common Examples Of Embezzlement?
Common examples of embezzlement include nonprofits using charitable funds for personal gain or benefit, a cashier taking money from a register, a financial manager using a client’s investments maliciously, a trustee or executor pocketing money from a trust or estate, and a worker moving company funds into their personal bank account. A knowledgeable attorney can help you understand whether your case actually warrants charges of embezzlement.
Is Embezzlement A Misdemeanor Or Felony In California?
In California, embezzlement can be charged as either a felony or misdemeanor as a function of the value of the property that was taken. If the amount of property stolen was valued to be under $950, this typically constitutes petty theft embezzlement charges, being classified as a misdemeanor with potential penalties of fines and jail time. Stolen amounts valued at greater than $950, grand theft embezzlement may be charged, classifying the crime as a felony.
What Are The Penalties For An Embezzlement Conviction?
The penalties for an embezzlement conviction may include incarceration, probation, thousands in fines and restitution to the victims, and a permanent criminal record. Collateral consequences can involve a loss of professional license, such as for business professionals, accountants, or financial advisors. A dedicated attorney can help you understand the charges you’re facing and the potential penalties that can come with them, working to get them minimized.
How Can A La Mirada Embezzlement Lawyer Help Me?
A La Mirada embezzlement lawyer can help you by analyzing the evidence brought against you and looking for any inconsistencies or insufficiencies in the prosecution’s argument. If necessary, they may negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf to minimize or dismiss your charges. If your case goes to trial, they can defend you in a court of law, bringing forward optimal legal arguments and evidence to fight for a positive case outcome.
Facing Criminal Charges?
At Shield Law, APC, we understand that legal issues can arise at any hour, and time is often critical. Call us 24/7 at 323-310-4636 to speak with a criminal defense attorney who will listen, answer your questions, and help you understand your options.
Don’t wait—reach out now to protect your rights and your future.
