Temecula Embezzlement Attorney

An embezzlement conviction can have serious consequences in terms of your freedom and your future employment or career options. Because it involves theft while at work, future employers will be reluctant to hire anyone convicted of this crime. If you've been accused of embezzlement, you need to take action by obtaining the legal representation of a strong advocate. Our firm, the Law Office of Nicolai Cocis, has been successfully defending those accused of theft and other crimes in Riverside County since 1999. As a result, we have become familiar with local judges, prosecutors, and court staff. Our years of dedicated criminal defense work has also earned our firm a 10 out of 10 Superb rating by Avvo which reflects the competence and commitment we bring to every case we handle.

Embezzlement under California Law

Embezzlement as a criminal offense is a form of theft which is covered under Sections 503 – 515 of the California Penal Code. It is described as "the fraudulent appropriation of property by a person to whom it has been trusted." This appropriation is for a use or purpose not within the person's trust. It may include property under the person's control or possession by virtue of his or her position.

This crime will be charged according to the value of what is embezzled. It may also be charged as grand theft if the property stolen exceeds $950 in value, if it is a firearm or a vehicle. It will be charged as a petty theft in cases where the stolen property is valued at less than $950.

Certain factors must be proven to convict someone of embezzlement. These factors include the fact that the alleged embezzler was involved in a relationship of trust with the victim, that he or she was given control or possession over the property embezzled, and that he or she stole some or all of that property in a fraudulent manner. Misdemeanor grand theft embezzlement is punishable by up to a year in jail and fines of up to $1,000. Felony embezzlement carries penalties of 16 months, two or three years in prison, and a fine of up to $10,000. In cases where the stolen property exceeds $65,000, enhanced penalties will apply.

Get Experienced Legal Help

Bringing your case to an experienced Temecula embezzlement lawyer is highly recommended in the face of an embezzlement charge or investigation. Our law office is located near the Southwest Justice Center in Murrieta and we represent individuals from the Riverside County cities of Temecula, Wildomar, Menifee, Murrieta, Winchester, Lake Elsinore, Perris, Hemet, Banning, Corona and Riverside.

Contact our firm to discuss your legal defense as soon as possible.