Long Beach Embezzlement Defense Attorneys

At The Justice Firm, we know how stressful and even frightening it can be when facing charges of embezzlement. Whether you are a vice president of a company, CEO, a bank employee, or in any position where you are entrusted with company financial matters, you can find yourself in a precarious position. Allegations of embezzlement not only leave you facing serious criminal penalties if convicted, your reputation, career, and future may be at stake. We provide vigorous legal representation for individuals who are under investigation or have been charged with embezzlement.

What is embezzlement, exactly? A form of theft, embezzlement can be accomplished in many different ways, but is basically taking money that belongs to an employer. Padding an expense account, pocketing money from a register in a retail store or restaurant, floating or "kiting" checks, falsifying your pay with overtime hours you did not actually work, kickbacks from vendors for continuing to purchase a specific product from that vendor - there are many forms of embezzlement. No matter how serious or minor the accusations may seem it is vital to consult with an experienced and aggressive Long Beach embezzlement attorney when facing possible criminal charges, which can impact your life in more ways than you know.

Embezzlement may be charged as petty theft or grand theft, which will affect the penalties you face if found guilty. Whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or felony also determines criminal punishment. If convicted of misdemeanor grand theft, the penalties an individual may face include fines of as much as $1,000 along with possible jail time of up to one year. Individuals found guilty of a felony charge may face up to 16 months, or two or three years in state prison, along with fines of up to $10,000.

While petty theft is a less serious embezzlement offense and involves property valued at more than $50, the penalties are still life-changing. Those convicted may be sentenced to jail time of up to six months, along with fines of up to $1,000. Penalties for those convicted of a theft crime involving property valued at under $50 and who have no prior criminal record involving theft may serve no jail time, and be required to pay a $250 fine in the event your attorney can persuade prosecutors to reduce the criminal charge to a civil charge of infraction.

Regardless of whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or felony theft or embezzlement offense, it is vital to protect not only your freedom, but your reputation and career. You may have been falsely accused, or perhaps you made a mistake you now regret. Whatever the circumstances, hiring a seasoned Long Beach embezzlement defense lawyer is the smartest step you can take in protecting your freedom and future. At The Justice Firm, we provide vigorous legal guidance and support, reviewing your case thoroughly to determine all legal options and the most effective defense possible to protect you from a conviction and the resulting negative consequences. Contact us immediately for a free consultation at 310-914-2444.