CALIFORNIA CRIMINAL LAWYERS

Los Angeles Embezzlement

Facing an Embezzlement Charge in Los Angeles? Know Your Rights

If you’re facing an embezzlement charge in Los Angeles, it’s important to know your rights under California law. Embezzlement, as defined by California Penal Code 503, involves the fraudulent taking of someone else’s property by a person who was entrusted with that property. While it may be referred to by other names, such as stealing or misappropriation, the bottom line remains that an individual who has taken money from an employer or company’s funds can be charged with embezzlement.

There are two types of embezzlement that occur most frequently in Los Angeles. The first is employee theft, which happens when an employee steals from his or her employer. The second type is employee fraud, which involves an employee deceiving their employer to issue payment or funds. In California, there are three laws under which embezzlement can be charged: Penal Code Section 503, Section 484, or Section 487.

Embezzlement is slightly different from regular theft as it must be proved that the property or money was indeed entrusted to the defendant. In other words, the defendant must have been in legal possession of and maintained the legal authority to access the money or property in question. There are several common embezzlement scenarios that arise in Los Angeles, such as stealing money from a store‘s cash register or transferring money from a company’s account into the employee’s personal account.

To convict someone of embezzlement, a prosecutor must prove the following elements:

– The defendant was entrusted with property or funds by the owner.
– The owner chose to entrust the property or funds due to the understanding of trust between themselves and the defendant.
– The defendant converted or used the property in a deceitful manner for personal gain.
– The defendant intentionally deprived the owner of the use of the property when it was converted or used.

The penalties for embezzlement vary based on the amount of money or funds embezzled, as well as the defendant’s prior criminal history. This crime can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, with the sentence ranging from six months in county jail to three years in state prison. If the amount of money or property embezzled was valued at more than $950, a grand theft charge will be brought under Penal Code 487. For amounts under $950, a petty theft charge under Penal Code 488 will be brought.

If you or someone you know has been accused of embezzlement, it’s crucial to speak with an experienced Los Angeles embezzlement attorney as soon as possible. Consulting a lawyer before speaking to law enforcement can be beneficial under certain circumstances. A skilled defense attorney can help you to sort through the complicated details of your case and provide the defense possible to protect your rights, honor, and liberty. Don’t hesitate to contact our Los Angeles embezzlement firm to get the legal help you need.

Building Your Defense Against Embezzlement Charges

If you’re facing an embezzlement charge in Los Angeles, it’s important to seek the assistance of a professional and trusted Los Angeles Embezzlement Attorney immediately. At our defense firm, we have extensive experience dealing with the complexities of embezzlement cases. We know the urgency of seeking legal help, so we make it our top priority to provide you with the defense possible to protect your rights, freedom, and reputation.

Whether it’s employee theft or employee fraud that you’re being accused of, our embezzlement lawyers understand the elements of the crime and the laws that apply in California. We advise you to consult with us before speaking to law enforcement or anyone associated with the owner of the property or money that you’re accused of embezzling if circumstances allow.

Our stance on providing legal services revolves around giving you the possible defense based on your circumstances. We examine every factor surrounding the charges against you to develop an individualized defense plan. We work diligently to protect your rights, reputation, and liberty. If you’re facing embezzlement charges or are simply under investigation, contact our Los Angeles Embezzlement Criminal Defense Firm to set up a free consultation and learn more about how we can help.

Penalties for Embezzlement in Los Angeles

If you’ve been charged with embezzlement, you need to understand the potential consequences. The penalties for embezzlement can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony. This mainly depends on the defendant’s prior criminal history and the amount of money or funds embezzled.

On a misdemeanor charge, the sentence may be up to one year in county jail or a fine of up to $1,000. On the other hand, a felony charge carries a longer prison sentence, along with other consequences.

If the money or property you allegedly embezzled was less than $950, you’d be charged with petty theft under Penal Code 484. For this charge, you may face up to six months in jail, along with probation and/or fines of up to $1,000.

If the money or property you allegedly embezzled was valued at more than $950, the charges under Penal Code 487 Grand Theft Embezzlement will be brought. The consequences may include up to three years in state prison, probation, fines of up to $10,000, restitution, and court-ordered community service.

Embezzlement Defense Strategies

Our Embezzlement defense lawyers have a deep understanding of the criminal justice system and can help you build a solid defense against the criminal charges you’re facing. We have extensive knowledge of the Penal Code and how it works in court, allowing us to provide you with intelligent advice on how to proceed.

Some possible defenses against embezzlement may include:

– Lack of intent: If you honestly believed that you had a right to use the property or money you’re being accused of embezzling, you may have a viable defense.
– False accusations: If you have been wrongly accused of embezzlement, we can help you fight the charges and prove your innocence.
– Illegal Search and Seizure: If evidence was illegally obtained against you, we can move to have it suppressed.

Secure the Legal Help You Need to Fight Embezzlement Charges in Los Angeles

If you’re facing embezzlement charges in Los Angeles, don’t delay. The potential consequences of a conviction are serious, and the sooner you seek legal help, the better your chances of success. At our Los Angeles Embezzlement Criminal Defense Firm, we have the knowledge, experience, and resources required to fight the charges against you aggressively. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation with an experienced Los Angeles embezzlement attorney.