Jacksonville Embezzlement Lawyer
What Type of Crime Is Embezzlement?
Embezzlement is a serious white collar crime involving the misappropriation and/or theft of an employer’s funds or property. Embezzlement can also involve the misuse of trust funds. Depending on various circumstances, including the amount of funds allegedly embezzled, embezzlement can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. It can also fall under either state or federal jurisdiction. In any case, those convicted of embezzlement face harsh penalties, including lengthy prison time and hefty fines.
If you believe you are under investigation for embezzlement or if you have already been formally charged, you need an experienced criminal defense attorney who can ensure your rights are protected. At First Coast Criminal Defense, our award-winning Jacksonville embezzlement attorneys have extensive experience representing clients in the face of serious white collar criminal charges. We understand what is at stake—and how to protect your future.
Contact our Jacksonville embezzlement lawyers at (904) 474-3115 for a complimentary case evaluation.
Understanding Embezzlement Charges in Florida
Under Florida state law, embezzlement is typically charged as either petit theft or grand theft, depending on the value of the allegedly stolen property/funds. When the total value of the allegedly stolen property/funds amounts to between $300 and $20,000, the defendant faces third-degree grand theft charges. Embezzled property/funds valued between $20,000 and $100,000 results in second-degree grand theft charges and embezzled property/funds valued at more than $100,000 constitutes first-degree grand theft charges.
Embezzlement Penalties in Florida
The penalties for embezzlement in Florida are as follows:
- Petit Theft: Up to 60 days in jail and fines up to $500
- Third-Degree Grand Theft: Up to 5 years in prison and fines up to $5,000
- Second-Degree Grand Theft: Up to 15 years in prison and fines up to $10,000
- First-Degree Grand Theft: Up to 30 years in prison and fines up to $10,000
Subsequent offenses, or instances in which the defendant has prior convictions, can result in harsher charges and more severe penalties. Additionally, it is important to note that the penalties for embezzlement correspond with the counts; if you are charged with three counts of second-degree grand theft embezzlement, you face three times the standard penalties.
Defense for Embezzlement Charges in Florida
If you have been arrested for or charged with embezzlement in Duval, Clay, or Nassau County, your future is at stake. The prosecution is likely already building its case against you and will use its extensive resources in an attempt to put you behind bars. You need an equally strong defense from a legal team that knows the criminal justice system.
At First Coast Criminal Defense, we are fully prepared to put all our efforts behind you. We have extensive resources of our own, including in-house expert witnesses and investigators. Our Jacksonville embezzlement lawyers can build a solid defense tailored to your unique situation.
Call (904) 474-3115 or submit an online contact form to request a complimentary and confidential meeting with our Jacksonville embezzlement attorneys today.
