Embezzlement is a form of theft and is commonly known as employee theft or employee fraud. California Penal Code section 503 defines embezzlement as the fraudulent appropriation of property by a person to whom it has been entrusted. An embezzlement conviction requires proof that the property or money embezzled was not the defendant’s original property, i.e., the defendant did not have the right to possess the property. Embezzlement can take the form of many types of thefts, including the following:

• Undercharging or stealing goods from your employer
• Underreporting sales and profits to conceal a theft
• Spending from client funds and/or accounts
• Altering account information, records or receipts to conceal a theft
• Billing from a false vendor account to conceal a theft
• Billing for false charges/overbilling to conceal a theft
• Creation of phantom employees/accounts

Embezzlement is a serious crime and could have a devastating impact on a person’s life. In addition to the severe legal penalties, an embezzlement conviction will limit future employment opportunities and will result in life-altering consequences that affect your job, your family, and your reputation.

Embezzlement Legal Penalties

The crime of embezzlement is punishable either as a felony or a misdemeanor offense. If the value of the property embezzled is less than $400, it will usually be charged as a misdemeanor. If the value of the property embezzled is worth more than $400, it will be charged as a felony. Whether charged as a misdemeanor or felony, Embezzlement is a serious charge that can result in the following legal penalties:

Misdemeanor Embezzlement

• Up to 180 days in the County Jail
• Probation
• Community Service
• Cal-Trans
• Maximum Fine of $1,000
• Restitution

Felony Embezzlement

• A minimum of 16 months in State Prison
• Probation
• Community Service
• Cal-Trans
• Maximum Fine of $10,000
• Restitution
• Court-ordered Counseling

Los Angeles Embezzlement Defense Attorneys

If you have been accused of embezzlement or stealing from your employer, you need to act quickly and talk to a criminal defense attorney who has the experience to protect your rights and prepare your defense. The attorneys at The Chahine Law Firm will analyze the facts of your case to identify any available defenses and attack the charges against you. In addition, early involvement by an embezzlement defense lawyer can result in a civil compromise between the employee and employer thereby eliminating a criminal conviction. Contact The Chahine Law Firm today for a free case evaluation.