Embezzlement
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Newport Beach Embezzlement Lawyer
Experienced Defense Against Embezzlement Charges in California
Embezzlement is the fraudulent appropriation of money, property, or other assets that have been entrusted to the defendant. Embezzlement is a serious crime that can lead to severe penalties, including jail time and stiff fines. At Corrigan Welbourn Stokke, APLC, our Newport Beach embezzlement defense attorneys are ready to fight for you. We are here to help you navigate the complexities of embezzlement cases and fight for your freedom.
Call Corrigan Welbourn Stokke, APLC, today at (949) 251-0330 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our embezzlement attorney in Newport Beach.
What is Embezzlement?
Embezzlement is considered a white-collar crime that involves the misappropriation or theft of funds or property entrusted to an individual's care, often in a position of trust or authority. This crime typically occurs when an employee or someone with access to financial assets takes advantage of their position to unlawfully transfer or divert these assets for personal gain. Embezzlement can take various forms, such as:
Financial Misappropriation: This includes stealing money from a company's cash register, manipulating financial records, or transferring funds electronically without authorization.
Property Theft: Embezzlement is not limited to money; it can involve the theft of physical assets or property owned by an employer.
Fraudulent Schemes: Some individuals engage in complex schemes or financial fraud to embezzle funds, making it difficult for authorities to detect their actions.
Forgery and Alteration: Embezzlers may also engage in forgery or alteration of financial documents to cover their tracks.
What are the Penalties for Embezzlement in California?
Embezzlement is taken seriously under California law, and the penalties for conviction can be very severe. Your consequences depend on the value of the embezzled property or funds and your prior criminal record. In general, embezzlement penalties in California can include:
Restitution: You may be required to repay the amount embezzled to the victim.
Fines: Embezzlement convictions can result in substantial fines, varying depending on the amount embezzled.
Probation: In some cases, the court may sentence you to probation, with conditions that may include restitution, community service, or counseling.
Jail or Prison Time: Embezzlement convictions can lead to imprisonment, with the sentence's length determined by the crime's severity.
Criminal Record: A conviction for embezzlement can have long-lasting consequences, including a permanent criminal record that can greatly impact your future employment prospects and personal life.
Defenses Against Embezzlement Charges
Common defenses against embezzlement charges may include:
Lack of Intent: Embezzlement charges often hinge on proving that you intended to steal or misappropriate funds or property. If there is no evidence of criminal intent, this can be a strong defense.
Mistaken Identity: In some cases, individuals are wrongly accused of embezzlement due to mistaken identity or insufficient evidence tying them to the crime.
Duress or Coercion: This can be a valid defense if you were forced or coerced into committing embezzlement under threat of harm to yourself or loved ones.
Insufficient Evidence: Prosecutors must prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt. We can thoroughly review the evidence against you to identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
Legal Consent: If you had legal authority or consent to access and use the funds or property in question, this can be a strong defense against embezzlement charges.
Contact Our Embezzlement Attorney in Newport Beach Today
At Corrigan Welbourn Stokke, APLC, our Newport Beach embezzlement lawyer is dedicated to protecting your rights, building a strong defense, and striving for the best possible outcome in your case. Your future is at stake, and we are here to help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and fight for your rights. Trust us to provide you with the strong defense you need.
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