Facing Embezzlement Charges in California? Here is What You Should Know
There are many different people who can be accused of embezzlement, from workers and contractors, to tenants and caregivers.
Embezzlement is a theft offense defined as the theft or misappropriation of funds for personal use that were placed in one’s trust by another party such as an organization or employer. Because embezzlement is a nonviolent crime, the penalties often do not involve prison time. Instead, the prosecuting attorney usually seeks restitution.
If you have been charged with embezzlement, your best defense is a skilled and experienced criminal defense attorney. You can count on me and my firm to provide dedicated attention to your case.
Types of Embezzlement
“Mr. Helfend absolutely saved my bacon. After finding myself charged with fraud, I was terrified. I have never been introduced to the legal system from this side before, and it was unsettling. However, Robert was able to calm me down and help me figure out my situation. He even got the case dropped before trial! I don’t want to be in another situation where I need a criminal defense lawyer, but if I ever am, I know who I will call!”
Pete, CA
There are two types of embezzlement, petty theft and grand theft. If the amount you have been accused of stealing is more than $950, including separate acts of embezzlement over the course of a year that add up to more than $950, you could be charged with grand theft.
If the amount exceeds $65,000, it is considered an aggravated offense, which, if you are convicted, could add an additional year of prison time to your sentence. Depending on the details of your case and history, you may be charged with either a misdemeanor or a felony. If convicted of felony embezzlement, you could spend up to 3 years in prison and be ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $10,000.
A conviction of petty theft embezzlement could result in 6 months of jail time and $1,000 restitution. If the amount you are charged with embezzling is no more than $50, you may be able to reduce your penalties to a $250 fine by reducing your charges to an infraction. Additional penalties may be added for embezzling against a senior citizen or dependent.
Need Help?
As a criminal defense attorney with more than 40 years of experience, I understand the seriousness of embezzlement charges. Maybe you didn’t realize that the activity you were engaging in was illegal or perhaps you have been entrapped by federal investigators. Whatever your unique circumstances may be, the earlier I become involved in your case, the better I am able to negotiate with the prosecuting attorney or defend your case in court. Don’t wait! Contact my firm today to see how I can defend you defend you in the face of your embezzlement charges.