Contra Costa County Embezzlement Lawyer
Embezzlement involves the misappropriation or theft of funds entrusted to an individual's care. This “white collar crime” is considered a theft offense and can have severe legal consequences for a conviction. Those who are accused cannot afford to take their accusations lightly—with stiff penalties and ongoing consequences, an embezzlement conviction could be a life-altering event.
If you find yourself facing embezzlement allegations, seeking legal representation is crucial. At the Law Office of Daniel Horowitz, we have handled numerous embezzlement cases and are aware of how complex they can be. With decades of experience, we are committed to providing a robust and aggressive defense for our clients. We approach each case with a unique.
Contact us at (925) 291-5388 to talk to our team and schedule a consultation.
What Is Embezzlement?
As stated above, embezzlement is the name used to describe inappropriately using or misappropriating property that is placed in your position. Most of the time, the property in question is money. In a number of cases, multiple people may have access to and control over a particular sum of money with permission to utilize or manage these funds in a particular way. Stepping outside of these boundaries or using these funds in a way that is not authorized could be considered embezzlement, especially when this is done for personal gain.
Embezzlement can take various forms, including:
- Corporate embezzlement: This occurs within a business or corporate setting when employees or managers misuse company funds, manipulate financial records, or engage in other fraudulent activities.
- Public embezzlement: Takes place in government organizations when public officials or employees misappropriate public funds or resources for personal gain.
- Non-profit embezzlement: This happens in charitable organizations or non-profits when individuals within the organization misuse donated funds, divert assets, or engage in fraudulent financial practices.
- Employee theft: This occurs when employees misuse their access to company assets, including stealing cash, manipulating financial records, or engaging in fraudulent activities.
California’s Embezzlement Laws & Penalties
Calfornia Penal Code § 503 PC defines embezzlement and creates the penalty structure that a conviction follows. Embezzlement is considered a “wobbler” crime, meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. However, because of the nature of the offense, most charges are felony in nature due to the value of the property stolen. To put it simply: any amount stolen under $950 is considered a misdemeanor, while any amount over $950 is considered a felony. Penalties for a conviction of any type can include fines, jail time, victim restitution, loss of rights, and so much more.
However, there are a few key elements to the law that could provide and avenue to prove innocence. There are three key elements that define embezzlement as a crime, and a skilled attorney may be able to prove that any one of the three was not present.
Here Are a Few Key Elements of Embezzlement:
- Fiduciary relationship: Embezzlement cases often involve a fiduciary relationship between the accused and the victim, meaning the accused had a legal duty to act in the best interest of the victim.
- Misappropriation: This means the prosecution must be able to demonstrate that the property in question was truly misappropriated or used improperly. If the property was used in a way that was considered acceptable, even if the outcome was not desirable, then no offense has occurred.
- Criminal intent: Embezzlement involves deliberate intent to deprive the victim of the property in question. If the accused did not intend to deprive the victim of the property, then no offense has occurred.
Consequences of Embezzlement
Embezzlement carries severe legal consequences, impacting an individual's personal and professional life. These consequences include criminal charges, fines, imprisonment, restitution to victims, potential civil lawsuits, and damage to one's reputation, which can hinder future employment and trust. The severity of these consequences depends on factors such as the embezzled amount and specific case circumstances.
At the Law Office of Daniel Horowitz, we recognize the seriousness of embezzlement allegations and are committed to offering comprehensive legal assistance to individuals facing these charges. Attorney Daniel Horowitz meticulously assembles each defense and support team that provides support and advocacy against these charges. If you or someone you know is facing embezzlement allegations, don't hesitate to reach out to us.
Contact the Law Office of Daniel Horowitz by calling (925) 291-5388 or reach out through our online contact form to schedule a consultation.
Certified Criminal Defense Specialist
Daniel Horowitz is a certified criminal defense specialist. On high stakes cases Daniel works with Dan Russo and Carmela Caramagno who are also certified criminal defense specialists. This title is not self created. It is a designation of criminal defense achievement issued by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization. There are thousands of criminal defense lawyers, thousands of federal defense lawyers but only several hundred State Bar certified specialists.
Client Testimonials
Contra Costa County Location - National Reputation for Excellence
-
I can not say enough about Mr. Horowitz and his staff. Brook was amazing to myself and my family. My case was very unique. He believed in me and listened to what I had to say. I highly recommend him and his staff. Yvett Bline- Yvett Bline
-
Dan Horowitz handled my complex business issue with magnanimity, compassion, care, promptness, and utmost professionalism. I'm an Attorney and would highly recommend him to other professionals (and others alike) because he's the very BEST at what he does and has an uncanny knack at finding unique resolutions with unparalleled speed and efficiency. What is quite outatanding is that he treats each client with kindness and compassion as if a family member- Lovely K.
-
I cannot express enough gratitude for the outstanding legal services provided by Daniel Horowitz. He not only possesses an in-depth understanding of the law but also demonstrated a genuine commitment to me. He took the time to listen attentively to my concerns, providing clear and concise explanations of the legal processes involved in my case. He made me feel heard and supported during this tumultuous time. What impressed me most was his unwavering dedication to achieving the best possible outcome for me. The attention to detail and strategic approach to my case were evident at every stage. I am eternally grateful towards Daniel for what he has done for me and I wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone seeking legal representation. Thank you Dan- Kento T.
-
Daniel and his team did an excellent job. He was always readily available to take my call and provided peace of mind through a stressful situation.- Reid V.
-
My experience with Dan was great. I appreciate the knowledge Dan has and the professionalism they exhibit. I would highly recommend the Law Office Of Daniel Horowitz. My family and I are truly grateful we worked with him.- Brandon D.
-
There are lawyers and then there are real lawyers. Dan Horowitz is a real lawyer in every since of the word. Dan is a Certified Specialist in Criminal Law. You will not find very many attorneys having such recognition especially one that hits on all cylinders as Dan. In addition to his knowledge of the law and his experience, which I found to be unmatched, i appreciated the fact that he at all times is genuine, which for me says it all. Thank you Dan.- Cory N.
-
“The Best Attorney I Could Have Asked For.”- Katherine Ryken
-
Dan Horowitz was the best attorney I could have asked for during a difficult time in my career. From the moment I met him, I felt believed, respected, and safe. He and his team were endlessly responsive and empathetic to me and my family. He fought for my case day and night, always keeping my best interests at the forefront of his mind. As I learned from Dan, it is never a good time in one’s life to need legal representation - but if you need it, Dan is your person, your advocate, and your best friend. We are forever grateful for his tireless commitment to justice for the people.- Katherine R.