Trusted Legal Representation for Embezzlement Cases in Los Angeles

At The Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, our Los Angeles embezzlement attorney understand the serious implications of being accused of embezzlement. Allegations of misusing funds or property entrusted to you can jeopardize your reputation, career, and future. These charges often involve complex financial evidence and carry severe legal penalties, making it essential to have an experienced defense attorney on your side.

If you’ve been charged with embezzlement in Los Angeles, our criminal defense attorney is here to help. With a deep understanding of the legal system and the challenges these cases bring, Attorney Hashemi works tirelessly to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome. Whether through negotiating a dismissal of charges, uncovering weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, or securing a favorable plea agreement, we take a strategic approach to every case. If your case proceeds to trial, we are prepared to challenge the evidence and fight for an acquittal.

Potential resolutions to embezzlement charges include:

  • Dismissal of Charges: Presenting evidence or legal arguments that lead to the charges being dropped before trial.
  • Acquittal at Trial: Thoroughly preparing and challenging the prosecution’s case to achieve a “not guilty” verdict.
  • Favorable Plea Agreement: Negotiating to reduce charges or penalties, minimizing the impact on your life and career.

Don’t wait to take control of your defense. Call (310) 448-1529 today to schedule a consultation with our Los Angeles embezzlement attorney and discuss your legal options.

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    What is Embezzlement Under California Law?

    Under California Penal Code 503 PC, embezzlement is defined as the fraudulent appropriation of money or property by a person to whom it has been entrusted. This offense often arises in relationships involving trust, such as between employers and employees or fiduciaries and clients, making it a specific type of theft crime.

    To secure a conviction for embezzlement, the prosecution must prove the following elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

    1. Entrustment: The defendant was entrusted with money or property by another party.
    2. Fraudulent Use: The defendant fraudulently used the entrusted money or property for their own personal benefit or gain.
    3. Intent to Deprive: The defendant intended to permanently deprive the rightful owner of the money or property.

    Embezzlement charges depend heavily on the evidence of trust and intent, making it crucial to have experienced legal representation to challenge these elements and protect your rights.

    Common Examples of Embezzlement

    Embezzlement can take many forms, often involving the misappropriation of funds or property entrusted to an individual by an employer, client, or organization. Common examples include:

    • Employee Theft: Instances such as taking cash from a register, creating false refunds, or manipulating financial records to divert funds for personal use.
    • Corporate Embezzlement: Situations where executives, managers, or other trusted employees misuse company funds for unauthorized purposes, such as personal expenses, luxury items, or secret investments.
    • Misuse of Client Funds: Professionals, including attorneys, accountants, or financial advisors, who divert client funds for personal use or unauthorized transactions, often violating fiduciary duties.

    Penalties for Embezzlement Convictions in California

    The penalties for embezzlement in California depend on the value and type of property involved, as well as the circumstances of the offense. Embezzlement may be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, with punishments varying accordingly.

    Misdemeanor Embezzlement typically applies when the value of the property embezzled is $950 or less, referred to as petty theft embezzlement. This charge carries penalties similar to petty theft, including up to 6 months in county jail and fines of up to $1,000. For property valued over $950, the prosecutor may still opt to file misdemeanor charges under grand theft embezzlement. In such cases, penalties can include up to 1 year in county jail.

    Felony Embezzlement is generally charged when the property embezzled is worth more than $950 or involves specific items like firearms or automobiles. Additionally, multiple acts of embezzlement over a one-year period that collectively exceed $950 in value may result in felony charges. Penalties for felony embezzlement include 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in state prison, along with potential fines and restitution to the victim.

    Aggravating Circumstances

    • High-Value Theft: If the amount embezzled exceeds $65,000, additional sentencing enhancements under California Penal Code Section 12022.6 may apply. These enhancements can increase the prison term by:
      • 1 additional year if the amount exceeds $65,000.
      • 2 additional years if the amount exceeds $200,000.
      • 3 additional years if the amount exceeds $1,300,000.
      • 4 additional years if the amount exceeds $3,200,000.

    Legal Defenses Against Embezzlement Charges

    You Did Not Take the Money or Property

    A foundational defense is proving that you did not commit the act in question. This involves demonstrating that you had no involvement in taking the funds or property. Your attorney may present evidence such as financial records, witness statements, or other documentation to show that the accusations are false or misplaced.

    The Funds Were Used for Legitimate Business Purposes

    Many embezzlement allegations arise from misunderstandings about financial transactions. If you used company funds for authorized business purposes and not for personal gain, this defense can be effective. Providing records, emails, or other documentation showing that your actions were legitimate can undermine the prosecution’s case.

    Insufficient Evidence

    The prosecution must prove every element of embezzlement beyond a reasonable doubt. If there are gaps in the evidence—such as missing documentation, unreliable testimony, or unclear financial transactions—your attorney can argue that the evidence does not meet the legal threshold for a conviction.

    Lack of Intent

    For embezzlement to be proven, the prosecution must show that you intentionally misappropriated funds or property. If your actions were due to an honest mistake, mismanagement, or a belief that you had a right to the property, this lack of intent negates the criminal element of embezzlement.

    Duress or Coercion

    If you were forced to commit embezzlement under threats of harm to yourself or a loved one, you may be able to argue that you acted under duress. However, this defense requires evidence of specific threats that directly compelled you to act, such as a supervisor threatening to fire you unless you participated in the scheme.

    Why Choosing the Right Defense Matters

    Each embezzlement case is unique, and the right defense depends on the circumstances surrounding your charges. Attorney Arash Hashemi will thoroughly investigate your case, analyze the evidence, and identify the best strategy to protect your rights. Whether challenging the prosecution’s claims or negotiating to minimize penalties, our firm is committed to securing the best possible outcome for your situation.

    If you are facing embezzlement charges, contact The Law Offices of Arash Hashemi today to schedule a consultation and discuss your defense options.

    Contact a Los Angeles Embezzlement Defense Lawyer Today

    If you are facing embezzlement charges, acting quickly is essential to protect your rights and build a strong defense. At The Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we provide experienced legal guidance and personalized support to help you navigate this challenging time. With a proven track record of success in defending clients accused of white-collar crimes, including embezzlement, our Los Angeles embezzlement attorney is dedicated to delivering comprehensive representation.

    We handle every aspect of your defense, from pre-trial negotiations to courtroom advocacy, crafting personalized strategies tailored to the unique circumstances of your case. Attorney Arash Hashemi is committed to protecting your rights, aggressively fighting for your future, and working to achieve the best possible outcome for you.

    Schedule Your Consultation Today

    Arash Hashemi, a skilled Los Angeles criminal defense attorney, providing expert legal representation for clients in California.