San Bernardino Embezzlement Attorney
Experienced Defense Against Embezzlement Charges in California
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.
Real People. Real Reviews
Hear From Our Past Clients
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I was very worried about my case which was an old case that Dennis Kuntz took care of perfectly. He keeps in contact and really put me at ease. I would highly recommend his services to anyone who is lucky enough to have him.- Jennifer
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Mr. Kuntz was professional and very helpful. Whenever I needed clarification, he was always available to answer my questions. I appreciated the fact that I wasn't being considered just another client, but a person who truly needed counsel. When dealing my first DUi in 2004, I hired a "Big Shot" attorney to handle my case. I was highly overcharged, and had many confusing ordeals which felt unnecessary. I was not satisfied to say the least, and felt like I got robbed. My experience with Mr. Kuntz was a breath of fresh air, and I would definitely recommend hiring a dedicated, genuine attorney like him.- Riley
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Mr. Kuntz handled my case professionally and kept me informed of my options from start to finish. Made me feel comfortable knowing I was in good hands. More than satisfied with the outcome.- Tom
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We felt very confident with Mr. Kuntz, and appreciated the lengths he would go to for our case. When information was confusing, he was very clear about the next step, and what results to expect. He never made us feel like we weren't a priority. Not to mention, we received the absolute BEST possible outcome in our situation. Needless to say, we were very satisfied.- Denise
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I had really gotten myself into serious, felonious trouble. Looking at 3 to 5 state prison time. I cannot say enough about how dedicated Dennis was to me and my situation. Not often do you feel like someone who doesn't know you at all, really CARES about you, and what he can do for you. Not once did Dennis give up on getting me the best possible outcome to my case. It's obvious that Dennis loves what he does, will go the extra mile to work hard and really WANT the best for you. I will forever be grateful that I retained Dennis for my case. Because of his hard work, relationships with the court, and his overall passion for what he does, I will be able to get a job, be able to vote, and get on with my life with no jail time, and a misdemeanor rather than a felon on my record. If you ever find yourself needing a , hard working, loyal, compassionate lawyer, I definitely recommend Dennis.- Former Client
Your Dedicated Legal Advocate Meet Attorney Dennis Kuntz
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