Practice Areas

• Homicide
• Violent Crime/Felony
• White Collar Crime
• Juvenile Defense/Youthful Defenders
• Misdemeanor Offense

Blog

News

Library

California Employee Theft: Is Jail the Only Option?

You may have worked for your employer for years, providing loyal service and hard work. However, things may have taken a major turn for the worse when you were suddenly accused of employee theft.

If you have been accused of stealing from your employer, there is no time to lose. You need to understand the significance of your charges, the penalties you could be facing and the possible defense that might keep you out of jail.

Employee Theft Charges are Serious

Employee theft is also commonly referred to as embezzlement and is defined by California Penal Code 503. According to state law, “embezzlement is the fraudulent appropriation of property by a person to whom it has been entrusted.” Employee theft, in some respects, can have far worse consequences than other forms of theft. Not only could you find yourself in jail, your career and future could end up in ruins.

Penalties for Employee Theft

Embezzlement is generally punished as grand theft or petty theft, depending on the value of the property in question. The amount of jail time and fines will rely heavily on if your crime is charged as a misdemeanor or felony. Whether you have been falsely accused of employee theft or if misleading evidence is being used against you, you can and should defend yourself.

Defenses Often Used in Employee Theft Cases

You have the right to defend yourself against employee theft allegations. An experienced Ventura criminal defense lawyer will be able to look at the details and circumstances of your case and build a strong defense on your behalf. Lack of criminal intent and the “claim of right” are often used as defenses in employee theft cases. If you did not commit the alleged crime, defending your innocence is crucial.

Don’t leave your California employee theft case to chance by working with an inexperienced criminal defense lawyer. You have too much to lose.

For a free case evaluation, contact the Ventura criminal defense lawyers at the Law Offices of Bamieh & Erickson at 805-585-3638 today.

Free Consultation