Embezzlement Laws in California: How a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Help You Recover Losses and File Claims
Understanding Embezzlement Under California Law 📌 Definition of Embezzlement Embezzlement in California is defined under Penal Code 503 PC as the fraudulent appropriation of property or funds by someone entrusted with them. This crime typically occurs in workplaces, businesses, and nonprofit organizations, where an individual, often an employee, diverts company funds for personal use. 📌 Key Elements of Embezzlement To prove embezzlement, prosecutors must establish that: ✔ The defendant was entrusted with property. ✔ The property was taken or misused for personal benefit. ✔ The intent was to deprive the rightful owner of its use. 📌 Degrees of Embezzlement Charges ✔ Petty Theft Embezzlement – If the stolen property is valued under $950, it's a misdemeanor. ✔ Grand Theft Embezzlement – If the property exceeds $950, it may be charged as a felony or misdemeanor. Recovering Financial Losses Through Legal Action 📌 Civil Lawsuits for Compensation Victims of embezzlement can ...