Embezzlement is stealing from your employer. Employee theft is a serious fraud crime. If you exploit your insider's knowledge of the business where you work for illegal gain, you can be charged with embezzlement.

The difference between embezzlement and ordinary theft is that embezzled property is legally possessed or accessed by the person doing the embezzling usually as part of the job responsibilities.

Some common types of embezzlement include:  Credit card fraud  Falsifying records to conceal a theft  Stealing small amounts of money or property over time  Theft involving a large amount of money at once

Embezzlement can be serious depending on the value of the property stolen and the criminal record or lack thereof of the defendant. Embezzlement is a crime that may be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony.

Embezzlement charges could be filed for virtually any amount of money no matter how small. If an employer accuses you of the embezzlement they can withhold your wages until your case has been resolved. Generally an audit needs to be conducted to uncover the facts of the case.

If you're convicted of embezzlement there can be life-changing consequences including jail, prison, fines, counseling, and restitution to the victim. Your penalty may vary depending on factors including how much was stolen and whether it was a first offense.

For small and first time offenses involving less than $400, you will generally receive a small fine, community service, restitution, and informal probation. However a second offense is a much more serious matter. A second offense can be charged as a felony. Because it's a petty theft with a prior, it's punishable by up to a year in county jail or even three years in state prison.

If you are in need of a San Diego Criminal Attorney, please contact us immediately.