San Bernardino Embezzlement Attorney

Embezzlement is regarded as a serious criminal offense that carries severe consequences, including hefty fines, prison time, and a criminal record that can impact your personal and professional life. At The Law Office of Dennis Kuntz, we know that being accused of embezzlement is often a frightening experience. If you find yourself facing embezzlement charges, you need an experienced and dedicated embezzlement lawyer by your side to protect your rights and build a strong defense.

Call the Law Office of Dennis Kuntz today at (909) 200-4045 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our embezzlement lawyer in San Bernardino.

What is Embezzlement?

Embezzlement is a white-collar crime that involves the misappropriation or theft of funds entrusted to an individual, often an employee, who has access to those funds. This type of financial fraud occurs when someone in a position of trust intentionally takes funds for their personal use without authorization. Embezzlement can occur in various settings, including businesses, non-profit organizations, government agencies, and more. The key element that distinguishes embezzlement from other theft crimes is the breach of trust that exists between the individual and the entity from which the funds are stolen.

What are the Penalties for Embezzlement in California?

In the state of California, embezzlement is considered a form of theft, and the penalties for conviction can be severe, including fines, prison time, and criminal charges. The severity of the penalties depends on the value of the embezzled property. Embezzlement is typically charged as either grand theft or petty theft, and the distinction is made based on the value of the stolen property. In addition to the direct legal penalties, a conviction for embezzlement can have further serious consequences, including:

• Criminal Record: A conviction for embezzlement leads to a criminal record, which will affect future employment opportunities, housing applications, and more.
• Loss of Reputation: Embezzlement charges can damage your personal and professional reputation, making it difficult to regain trust in the community.
• Employment Consequences: Many employers are reluctant to hire individuals with theft-related convictions, especially for positions involving financial responsibilities.
• Restitution: Courts often order convicted individuals to pay restitution to the victim, which can often be a substantial financial burden.
• Future Legal Consequences: Multiple convictions for theft-related offenses can lead to enhanced penalties under California's "three strikes" law.

Defenses Against Embezzlement Charges

Some potential defenses against embezzlement charges include:

• Lack of Intent: Embezzlement requires intent, meaning that you knowingly and purposefully took the funds for personal use without authorization. If your actions were accidental or there was no intention to permanently deprive the rightful owner of the property, this could be a defense.
• Mistaken Identity: It's possible that someone else may have accessed the funds, and you were wrongly identified as the perpetrator. A solid alibi or evidence showing you were not in the vicinity at the time of the alleged embezzlement can support this defense.
• False Accusations: Embezzlement charges can arise from misunderstandings, workplace disputes, or false accusations. Your attorney can investigate the motives behind the accusations and present evidence that supports your innocence.
• Duress or Coercion: If you were forced or coerced into embezzling the funds against your will, this could be a valid defense. Providing evidence of threats or pressure could support this defense strategy.
• Insufficient Evidence: Your attorney can challenge the prosecution's evidence, showing inconsistencies, unreliable witnesses, or lack of concrete proof of your involvement in the alleged embezzlement.

Contact Our San Bernardino Embezzlement Lawyer Today

If you are facing embezzlement charges in San Bernardino, don't hesitate to reach out to The Law Office of Dennis Kuntz. Our embezzlement attorneys are dedicated to providing you with a strong defense, protecting your rights, and working tirelessly to reach the best possible result for your case. Contact us today and take the first step toward securing your future. Your rights and freedom are our priority. 

Contact the Law Office of Dennis Kuntz today to get started with our San Bernardino embezzlement attorney.