Modesto Embezzlement Attorney

Aggressive Defense For Embezzlement Charges in California

Embezzlement charges can have serious consequences, both personally and professionally. At Forkner Orlando & Echevarria, we are dedicated to providing skilled legal defense for individuals facing these charges. Our Modesto embezzlement lawyer is here to vigorously protect your rights and provide you with a strong defense.

Call Forkner Orlando & Echevarria today at (209) 753-4009 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our embezzlement lawyer in Modesto.

What is Embezzlement?

Embezzlement is considered a white-collar crime when someone entrusted with funds or property misappropriates or misuses them for their gain, violating the trust placed in them. Embezzlement can take various forms, such as:

• Corporate Embezzlement: This occurs when employees or executives divert company funds for their personal use.
• Employee Theft: When an employee steals company money or assets.
• Nonprofit Embezzlement: Involves the misappropriation of funds from nonprofit organizations.
• Public Funds Embezzlement: Public officials or employees unlawfully divert public funds for their benefit.

What are the Penalties for Embezzlement in California?

The penalties for embezzlement can be severe, with potential consequences that may include fines, restitution, probation, or even imprisonment. The severity of the penalties depends on several aspects, including the amount embezzled and the specific circumstances of the case. In California, embezzlement is typically categorized as either a misdemeanor or a felony.

Misdemeanor Embezzlement: For embezzlement of property or funds valued at $950 or less, the accused may face misdemeanor charges. The penalties for misdemeanor embezzlement can include:

• A maximum of 6 months in county jail.
• Fines
• Restitution to the victim.

Felony Embezzlement: Embezzlement of property or funds valued at more than $950 can lead to felony charges. Felony embezzlement penalties may include:

• Incarceration in state prison of up to 3 years.
• Fines
• Restitution to the victim.

Defenses Against Embezzlement Charges

Some common defenses against embezzlement charges may include the following:

• Lack of Intent: If the accused did not intentionally misappropriate the funds or property and the act was a genuine mistake, this can be a valid defense.
• Duress: If the defendant was forced or coerced into committing embezzlement under threats or pressure, it may be a viable defense.
• Ownership Dispute: Sometimes, embezzlement cases arise from misunderstandings or disputes over who owns certain property or funds. In such cases, asserting ownership rights can be a valid defense.
• Insufficient Evidence: Challenging the prosecution's evidence or proving that the evidence is insufficient to support a conviction can result in a case dismissal or acquittal.
• Entrapment: If law enforcement or a third party induced the accused to commit embezzlement, entrapment can be a legitimate defense.

Contact Our Embezzlement Lawyer in Modesto Today

At Forkner Orlando & Echevarria, we understand the complexities of embezzlement cases, and we are committed to safeguarding your rights and working tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your case. Our Modesto embezzlement attorney will conduct a thorough review of the evidence, develop a strategic defense, and represent you in court. Your future is worth protecting, and we are here to help you every step of the way.

Contact Forkner Orlando & Echevarria to get started with our Modesto embezzlement attorney.