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Embezzlement Defense Lawyer

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PC § 503 Embezzlement Defense Attorney Diamond Bar | Penal Code 503 Defense Lawyer Serving Diamond Bar, Walnut, Pomona, West Covina & All of Los Angeles County

Expert Defense Against Embezzlement, Employee Theft, Fraud, Misappropriation of Funds & White Collar Crimes in Diamond Bar, Walnut, Pomona, West Covina & All Los Angeles County

Charged with embezzlement in Diamond Bar? You’re facing criminal convictions that can range from misdemeanor petty theft to felony grand theft embezzlement with prison sentences, devastating fines, mandatory restitution orders, and a permanent criminal record branding you as a thief and fraudster. Whether you’re accused of skimming cash from a register, diverting company funds, misappropriating client accounts, or manipulating financial records as a trusted employee or officer, embezzlement allegations in California destroy careers, professional licenses, and futures before a single verdict is rendered.

Diamond Bar sits within Los Angeles County — one of the most aggressively prosecuted jurisdictions in California for white collar and financial crimes. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office and local law enforcement take embezzlement cases seriously, often pursuing felony charges even in cases involving relatively modest sums. If you’ve been accused, arrested, or are under investigation for embezzlement in Diamond Bar, you need a skilled criminal defense attorney fighting for you immediately — before prosecutors build an insurmountable case.

At Tu Defensor Criminalista, we represent individuals accused of embezzlement and all related financial crimes throughout Diamond Bar and Los Angeles County. We fight aggressively to protect your freedom, your record, and your future. Call us today for a confidential consultation.

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What Is Embezzlement Under California Law?

Embezzlement is defined under California Penal Code § 503[1] as the fraudulent appropriation of property by a person to whom it has been entrusted. Unlike ordinary theft, embezzlement requires a relationship of trust — the accused must have been given lawful access or control over the property before allegedly misappropriating it.

This is what makes embezzlement charges uniquely complex and uniquely dangerous. Prosecutors don’t just claim you stole — they claim you violated a position of trust. That additional element carries enormous weight in plea negotiations, sentencing decisions, and jury perceptions.

Key Elements Prosecutors Must Prove:

To secure an embezzlement conviction under Penal Code § 503[1], the prosecution must establish all of the following beyond a reasonable doubt:

  1. The owner entrusted property to you
  2. The owner did so because they trusted you
  3. You fraudulently converted or used the property for your own benefit
  4. You intended to deprive the owner of use of that property

The element of fraudulent intent is critical — and it is also a powerful point of defense. If there was no intent to defraud, no embezzlement occurred. A mistake, misunderstanding, accounting error, or disputed ownership of funds is not embezzlement, even if it looks suspicious.

Embezzlement Charges in Diamond Bar: Misdemeanor vs. Felony

California treats embezzlement as a theft offense, meaning charges and penalties depend primarily on the value of the allegedly misappropriated property. California Penal Code § 487[2] and related statutes govern the threshold distinctions.

Misdemeanor Embezzlement (Petty Theft – PC § 488)

When the value of embezzled property is $950 or less, the offense is typically charged as petty theft under Penal Code § 488[3], a misdemeanor punishable by:

  • Up to 6 months in county jail
  • Fines up to $1,000
  • Summary (informal) probation
  • Restitution to the alleged victim

Felony Embezzlement (Grand Theft – PC § 487)

When the value exceeds $950, embezzlement is charged as grand theft under Penal Code § 487[2], which is a wobbler — meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony at the prosecutor’s discretion. Felony grand theft embezzlement carries:

  • 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in state prison (or county jail under realignment)
  • Fines up to $10,000
  • Formal felony probation
  • Restitution orders that can be massive
  • A permanent felony criminal record

Aggravated Sentencing Enhancements

Under Penal Code § 12022.6[4], when the amount embezzled reaches certain thresholds, additional consecutive prison time is added:

  • Over $65,000: additional 1 year
  • Over $200,000: additional 2 years
  • Over $1.3 million: additional 3 years
  • Over $3.2 million: additional 4 years

These enhancements mean that large-scale embezzlement cases — common in corporate or financial sector employment — can result in decade-plus prison sentences even without other aggravating factors.

Who Gets Charged With Embezzlement in Diamond Bar?

Embezzlement charges in Diamond Bar and Los Angeles County arise across all industries and all levels of the workforce. You do not have to be a corporate executive or financial officer to face embezzlement allegations — and the accusation can come from anywhere. Common scenarios our firm defends include:

  • Employees and Workers Retail employees accused of skimming cash from registers, warehouse workers accused of redirecting inventory, office workers accused of diverting expense reimbursements or petty cash.
  • Managers and Supervisors Mid-level managers accused of authorizing fraudulent vendor payments, manipulating payroll records, or approving fictitious expense reports for personal gain.
  • Bookkeepers and Accountants Financial professionals accused of altering records to conceal fund diversions, writing unauthorized checks, or creating false accounts. According to the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners[5], bookkeepers and accountants are among the most commonly named perpetrators in occupational fraud cases.
  • Corporate Officers and Executives High-level executives facing charges of misappropriating corporate assets, approving self-dealing transactions, or diverting investor funds.
  • Fiduciaries and Trustees Executors of estates, trustees of trusts, conservators, and guardians accused of misusing funds they were appointed to manage and protect.
  • Non-Profit Organization Officers Officers of charitable organizations accused of diverting donations or grant funds for personal use — a category that carries significant public scrutiny and prosecutorial attention.
  • Public Officials and Government Employees Government workers in Diamond Bar or Los Angeles County accused of diverting public funds — often prosecuted under both state penal code and separate government accountability statutes.

Related Charges Often Filed Alongside Embezzlement

Prosecutors in Los Angeles County rarely charge embezzlement in isolation. They typically accompany embezzlement counts with additional related charges designed to maximize sentencing exposure and pressure defendants toward guilty pleas. Tu Defensor Criminalista defends against all of these related allegations:

  • Grand Theft (PC § 487) The foundational charge that underlies most felony embezzlement prosecutions. California Penal Code § 487[2] covers theft of property valued over $950.
  • Theft by False Pretenses (PC § 532) Often added when prosecutors allege you used deception — false representations or concealment — to obtain property or money. See California Penal Code § 532[6].
  • Forgery (PC § 470) Charged when signatures, documents, financial instruments, or records are allegedly falsified to facilitate or conceal the embezzlement. See California Penal Code § 470[7].
  • Computer Crimes (PC § 502) When the alleged embezzlement involved unauthorized access to computer systems, financial software, or digital accounting records, prosecutors add charges under California Penal Code § 502[8].
  • Money Laundering (PC § 186.10) In cases involving large sums, prosecutors may allege financial transactions designed to conceal embezzled proceeds. See California Penal Code § 186.10[9].
  • Federal Wire Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1343) When the alleged embezzlement involved electronic communications across state lines — emails, wire transfers, online banking — federal prosecutors may assert jurisdiction under 18 U.S.C. § 1343[10], which carries up to 20 years in federal prison per count.
  • Federal Mail Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1341) Similarly, if the U.S. mail was used in furtherance of the alleged scheme, federal charges may follow under 18 U.S.C. § 1341[11].

Consequences of an Embezzlement Conviction in Diamond Bar

The prison or jail sentence is only the beginning. A conviction for embezzlement in California — whether misdemeanor or felony — carries a cascading set of consequences that can permanently alter the course of your life:

  • Criminal Record and Background Checks A theft or fraud conviction appears on criminal background checks run by employers, landlords, and licensing boards. According to California’s Department of Justice[12], most professional background checks surface even misdemeanor theft convictions. In an era where nearly every job application involves a background check, this can be effectively disqualifying.
  • Professional License Consequences California’s professional licensing boards — including those governing nurses, real estate agents, contractors, financial advisors, insurance agents, and accountants — treat theft and fraud convictions as grounds for license suspension or revocation. The California Department of Consumer Affairs[13] oversees dozens of boards with disclosure and fitness requirements that a conviction triggers.
  • Civil Liability An embezzlement conviction does not end your exposure. Employers and alleged victims can pursue separate civil lawsuits seeking damages that far exceed what criminal courts order in restitution. Civil cases use a lower standard of proof — preponderance of the evidence — making a conviction in criminal court nearly dispositive in civil proceedings.
  • Immigration Consequences For non-citizens, a theft or fraud conviction under federal immigration law qualifies as a “crime involving moral turpitude” (CIMT) or an aggravated felony depending on the amount. Either designation can trigger deportation, denial of naturalization, and bars to reentry. See 8 U.S.C. § 1227[14] and consult the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services[15] for current guidance.
  • Loss of the Right to Own Firearms A felony conviction under California or federal law results in a permanent, lifetime prohibition on owning or possessing firearms under California Penal Code § 29800[16] and 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)[17].
  • Restitution Orders Courts routinely order convicted defendants to repay every dollar allegedly misappropriated — plus interest. In cases involving years of alleged diversion, restitution orders can reach into the hundreds of thousands or millions of dollars, creating a financial burden that follows you for decades.

Embezzlement in Diamond Bar: Local Context and Why It Matters

Diamond Bar is a city in the eastern San Gabriel Valley region of Los Angeles County, incorporated in 1989, with a population of approximately 55,000 residents according to U.S. Census Bureau data[18]. The city is home to a significant business community, including corporate offices, retail establishments, medical and dental practices, financial services firms, and small businesses — all environments where allegations of employee financial misconduct arise.

Diamond Bar is served by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Walnut/Diamond Bar Station. Criminal cases originating in Diamond Bar are prosecuted by the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office[19] and heard at the Pomona Courthouse — part of the East Judicial District of the Los Angeles Superior Court.

Los Angeles County is one of the most populous counties in the United States, with over 10 million residents according to Los Angeles County’s official data[20]. The scale of the county means its courts handle an enormous volume of criminal cases, and the District Attorney’s Office has specialized units dedicated to complex financial fraud and white collar crime cases. This level of institutional specialization means that individuals facing embezzlement allegations in Diamond Bar are up against experienced prosecutors who handle financial crimes every day.


According to the California Department of Justice’s Criminal Justice Statistics Center[21], theft and fraud offenses represent a significant portion of all property crime arrests in Los Angeles County annually. The sheer volume of cases processed by the DA’s office means that without a skilled defense attorney advocating for you, your case may be resolved through a quick plea deal that doesn’t serve your best interests.

Local ties matter in criminal defense. Knowing the prosecutors, understanding how the Pomona Courthouse operates, and having relationships with the court system in the East Judicial District are all advantages that a locally knowledgeable defense attorney brings to your case.

Defense Strategies for Embezzlement Charges in Diamond Bar

A strong embezzlement defense begins the moment you retain counsel — and often long before charges are formally filed. Tu Defensor Criminalista employs a comprehensive range of defense strategies tailored to the specific facts of your case:

  • Challenging Intent: No Fraudulent Purpose The prosecution must prove you acted with fraudulent intent. If the transfer of funds was authorized, if there was a good-faith belief that you were entitled to the money, or if the situation involved a genuine accounting dispute, intent cannot be established. Intent-based defenses are among the most powerful available.
  • Challenging the Existence of a Trust Relationship Embezzlement requires that property was entrusted to you. If you did not occupy a position of trust with respect to the property in question — or if your authority over the property was broader than prosecutors claim — the charge may fail.
  • Disputing the Value of Property When the alleged value of embezzled property sits near a threshold (e.g., near $950 for petty vs. grand theft), challenging the prosecution’s valuation methodology can be decisive — potentially reducing a felony to a misdemeanor or even defeating the charge.
  • Claiming Authorization or Consent If the employer, principal, or owner actually authorized the transactions — even informally — there is no embezzlement. Defense may present email communications, verbal approvals, longstanding company customs, or ambiguous employment agreements that created genuine authorization.
  • Challenging the Sufficiency and Reliability of Evidence Embezzlement cases typically rely on financial records, audit reports, and digital evidence. Our defense team works with forensic accountants and financial experts to scrutinize the prosecution’s evidentiary foundation, identify inconsistencies, and expose errors in the alleged accounting.
  • Fourth Amendment Challenges: Unlawful Search and Seizure If law enforcement obtained financial records, computer data, or other evidence through unconstitutional searches — without proper warrants or in violation of applicable privacy protections — a motion to suppress that evidence can be case-dispositive. See California Penal Code § 1538.5[22].
  • Negotiating Charge Reductions and Diversion Even in cases where some liability exists, an experienced defense attorney can negotiate to reduce charges, secure a deferred entry of judgment, or pursue civil compromise under California Penal Code § 1377[23] — where the alleged victim’s willingness to accept restitution can resolve the criminal matter.
  • PC 17(b) Motions: Reducing Felony to Misdemeanor For wobbler offenses like grand theft embezzlement, a motion under California Penal Code § 17(b)[24] can request that the court reduce the charge to a misdemeanor — preserving your ability to avoid a felony record.

Can Embezzlement Charges Be Expunged in California?

If you were convicted of embezzlement and successfully completed probation — or are otherwise eligible — you may be able to have your conviction dismissed (expunged) under California Penal Code § 1203.4[25]. An expungement does not erase the arrest record entirely, but it allows you to legally state that you were not convicted in most employment and licensing contexts. It also reopens certain professional licensing opportunities.

Key eligibility requirements for PC § 1203.4 expungement include:

  • Completion of probation (or early termination of probation granted by the court)
  • No current criminal charges pending
  • No currently serving a sentence for any offense

Important Limitation: Felony convictions where state prison time (rather than county jail time) was served are generally not eligible for PC § 1203.4 expungement, though other forms of post-conviction relief may be available. Our attorneys can evaluate your specific situation.

Prop 47 and Its Impact on Embezzlement Cases in Diamond Bar

California voters passed Proposition 47[26] in November 2014, reclassifying certain theft and drug offenses from felonies to misdemeanors when property values are $950 or less. For embezzlement specifically, this means:

  • If the embezzled amount was $950 or less, the charge must be filed as a misdemeanor
  • Individuals previously convicted of felony embezzlement involving $950 or less may petition for resentencing under PC § 1170.18

According to the California Courts — Judicial Branch[27], thousands of Californians have successfully petitioned for sentence reductions under Prop 47. If you have a prior felony embezzlement conviction that now qualifies as a misdemeanor under current law, Tu Defensor Criminalista can help you pursue a petition for resentencing or reclassification.

What To Do If You Are Under Investigation for Embezzlement in Diamond Bar

If you suspect you are under investigation — or if you’ve been contacted by police, your employer’s internal security team, or a third-party forensic auditor — do not wait for an arrest. The steps you take before charges are filed can dramatically influence the outcome of your case.

  • Do Not Speak to Investigators Without an Attorney Your Fifth Amendment right to remain silent[28] exists precisely for situations like this. Anything you say to investigators — including seemingly innocent explanations — can and will be used against you. Politely invoke your right to counsel and say nothing further.
  • Do Not Destroy or Alter Documents Deleting files, shredding records, or altering financial documents after you suspect an investigation constitutes obstruction of justice under California Penal Code § 135[29] and can result in separate felony charges. Do not do it.
  • Do Not Discuss the Matter With Co-Workers or Colleagues Co-workers are potential witnesses. Anything you say to them may be relayed to investigators, used in sworn statements, or admitted as evidence.
  • Contact an Attorney Immediately Pre-charge representation is among the most valuable services a criminal defense attorney provides. Our attorneys can intervene with prosecutors before charges are filed, preserve exculpatory evidence, challenge the basis of the investigation, and in some cases prevent charges from ever being brought.

Defending Employees Accused of Embezzlement by Employers

One of the most challenging dynamics in embezzlement cases is the inherent power imbalance between employees and employers. Employers initiate internal investigations, hire forensic accountants, consult with counsel for months, and build a case file before they ever approach law enforcement or file a civil lawsuit. By the time you are confronted, informed of the accusation, or arrested, the other side has already prepared its narrative.

This is why Tu Defensor Criminalista takes a proactive approach. When we represent employees accused of embezzlement, we:

  • Conduct an independent review of the financial records and accounting methodology used to build the employer’s case
  • Identify whether the employer has complied with applicable California Labor Code[30] protections and procedures
  • Evaluate whether the accusation was motivated in whole or in part by retaliation, discrimination, or a desire to avoid paying owed wages or benefits
  • Explore all civil and criminal defenses simultaneously to protect your interests on both fronts

According to the California Labor Commissioner’s Office[31], employers sometimes use theft or embezzlement accusations as pretext to terminate employees and avoid paying earned wages, commissions, or final paychecks. Our firm takes all such dynamics seriously in building your defense.

White Collar Crime Defense: Beyond Embezzlement

Tu Defensor Criminalista provides comprehensive defense for the full spectrum of white collar and financial crime charges in Diamond Bar and throughout Los Angeles County. If you or someone you know is facing any of the following allegations, we can help:

  • Embezzlement (PC § 503) — Misappropriation of entrusted property
  • Grand Theft (PC § 487) — Theft of property valued over $950
  • Theft by False Pretenses (PC § 532) — Fraud-based acquisition of property
  • Forgery (PC § 470) — Falsification of documents or financial instruments
  • Check Fraud / Bad Checks (PC § 476a) — California Penal Code § 476a[32]
  • Credit Card Fraud (PC § 484e–484j) — Unauthorized use of credit or debit card data
  • Identity Theft (PC § 530.5) — California Penal Code § 530.5[33]
  • Insurance Fraud (PC § 550) — California Penal Code § 550[34]
  • Workers’ Compensation Fraud (INS § 1871.4) — California Insurance Code § 1871.4[35]
  • Money Laundering (PC § 186.10) — Concealment of proceeds from criminal activity
  • Tax Evasion — State and federal tax fraud offenses
  • Federal Wire Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1343) — Electronic communications used in fraud schemes
  • Federal Mail Fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1341) — U.S. mail used to advance fraud

Understanding the Embezzlement Investigation Process in Los Angeles County

Accused of embezzlement in Diamond Bar? You’re facing a process that is far longer, more complex, and more invasive than most people expect. Unlike street crime — where an arrest is often the starting point — embezzlement investigations can unfold over months or years before you are ever formally charged. Understanding what that process looks like empowers you to make better decisions and protects your rights at every stage.

  • Stage 1: Internal Investigation
    Most embezzlement cases begin not with law enforcement, but with an employer, business owner, or organizational stakeholder who suspects something is wrong. An internal audit identifies discrepancies. A whistleblower complaint is filed. Routine accounting review surfaces unexplained variances. The employer retains a forensic accountant, reviews financial records, and builds a preliminary case file before ever contacting police.
    This internal investigation phase is critical — and it is the phase during which many accused individuals make their worst mistakes. Confronted by human resources, internal security, or management, employees often speak freely in an attempt to explain themselves, without realizing they have no obligation to do so and that everything they say will be documented and potentially forwarded to prosecutors.
  • Stage 2: Law Enforcement Referral
    Once an employer believes it has documented sufficient evidence, it typically makes a formal report to the Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station or other local law enforcement, and in some cases directly contacts the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office. At this stage, law enforcement may conduct its own investigation — issuing subpoenas for bank records, interviewing witnesses, and potentially executing search warrants for digital devices, financial accounts, or workplace records.
    Under California Penal Code § 1524[36], law enforcement may obtain search warrants for premises, personal computers, and financial accounts when there is probable cause to believe evidence of a crime will be found there. If you learn that a search warrant has been served on your employer, bank, or home, contact an attorney immediately.
  • Stage 3: Filing Decision
    After the investigation, the matter is referred to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office for a filing decision. Prosecutors review the available evidence and determine whether to file charges, decline prosecution, or request additional investigation. This is an important window of opportunity — a skilled defense attorney can present exculpatory evidence, challenge the sufficiency of the employer’s documentation, and in some cases persuade prosecutors not to file charges at all.
  • Stage 4: Arraignment and Bail
    If charges are filed, you will be arraigned in the Pomona Courthouse. At arraignment, the charges are formally read, and you enter a plea. Bail will be set based on the severity of the charges, your prior record, and ties to the community. In large-scale embezzlement cases involving significant amounts, bail can be substantial. Having an attorney present at arraignment to argue for reasonable bail conditions is essential.
  • Stage 5: Preliminary Hearing and Pre-Trial Motions
    In felony cases, a preliminary hearing is held to determine whether probable cause exists to hold you for trial. This hearing is a critical strategic opportunity — it allows the defense to challenge the prosecution’s evidence, cross-examine key witnesses, and preserve testimony that may later be used advantageously at trial. Pre-trial motions, including motions to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence under PC § 1538.5[22], are also filed during this phase.
  • Stage 6: Trial or Resolution
    Most embezzlement cases resolve before trial — through dismissal, plea to a reduced charge, or diversion. Cases that proceed to trial involve jury selection, opening statements, presentation of financial and documentary evidence, examination of expert witnesses, and closing arguments. Tu Defensor Criminalista prepares every embezzlement case as if it will go to trial, because that preparation is what creates the leverage needed to secure favorable pre-trial resolutions.

The Role of Forensic Accounting in Embezzlement Defense

One of the most distinctive features of embezzlement cases is the central role played by financial evidence and expert witnesses. Unlike cases involving physical evidence or eyewitness testimony, embezzlement cases are built — and defended — primarily through the interpretation of numbers: general ledgers, bank statements, expense reports, payroll records, wire transfer logs, and accounting software data.

This is both a challenge and an opportunity for the defense.

The challenge: Prosecutors typically present a compelling-sounding narrative built on audit reports and expert testimony from forensic accountants who have spent months reviewing your employer’s records. To a jury, financial irregularities can appear damning.

The opportunity: Financial records are not infallible. Accounting systems contain errors. Audit methodologies have limitations and assumptions. Forensic experts can disagree. And the prosecution’s expert is presenting only one interpretation of the data — an interpretation that may be incomplete, misleading, or simply wrong.

Tu Defensor Criminalista works with independent forensic accounting professionals where appropriate to scrutinize the prosecution’s financial analysis, identify weaknesses in the audit methodology, challenge assumptions built into the computation of alleged losses, and present alternative, exculpatory interpretations of the financial record. In embezzlement cases where the alleged amount is large — and where large amounts drive the most serious sentencing outcomes — an independent financial analysis can be among the most valuable investments in your defense.


The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners[5] notes that the median duration of embezzlement schemes before detection is 12 months. This extended timeline means financial records from long periods must be analyzed — and the longer the period under review, the more opportunities exist to identify errors, misattributions, and alternative explanations in the prosecution’s accounting.

Sentencing Considerations and Mitigating Factors in Embezzlement Cases

If a conviction occurs — or if you choose to resolve your case through a negotiated plea — the sentencing phase is where a skilled defense attorney’s work can make an enormous difference in your life. California courts consider a broad range of factors in imposing sentence, and the space between the maximum and minimum available sentences in felony embezzlement cases can span years.

Factors That Courts Consider in Sentencing:

According to California Rules of Court, Rule 4.421[37] (circumstances in aggravation) and Rule 4.423[38] (circumstances in mitigation), courts weigh factors including:

  • Prior criminal history (or absence thereof)
  • Nature and sophistication of the alleged conduct
  • Duration of the alleged scheme
  • Amount of loss and harm to victims
  • Vulnerability of the victim
  • Defendant’s role in the offense (principal vs. minor participant)
  • Whether the defendant expressed remorse and accepted responsibility
  • Whether restitution was made voluntarily and promptly
  • The defendant’s personal circumstances, family responsibilities, employment history, and community ties
  • Physical or mental health conditions relevant to the offense

Key Mitigation Strategies:

Voluntary restitution — repaying alleged victims before sentencing — is among the most powerful mitigation tools available. Courts consistently treat genuine pre-sentencing restitution as a significant mitigating factor.

Letters from employers, family members, community leaders, and professional associates attesting to your character, work ethic, and contributions can powerfully humanize you before the sentencing judge.

Mental health or substance abuse treatment, if relevant to circumstances that contributed to the conduct, can provide grounds for probationary sentences with treatment conditions rather than incarceration.

First-time offender status in a case without aggravating factors frequently supports probation in lieu of prison — particularly in Los Angeles County, where county jail and state prison populations have both been subject to ongoing capacity and reform pressures pursuant to AB 109 (2011)[39] and related legislation.

Serving Diamond Bar and All of Los Angeles County

Tu Defensor Criminalista proudly serves clients accused of embezzlement and financial crimes throughout Diamond Bar and the surrounding communities of Los Angeles County, including:

  • Diamond Bar
  • Walnut
  • Pomona
  • West Covina
  • Rowland Heights
  • City of Industry
  • Hacienda Heights
  • La Puente
  • Chino Hills
  • Brea
  • Fullerton
  • Whittier
  • Covina
  • Glendora
  • San Dimas
  • Montclair
  • All communities throughout Los Angeles County and the greater San Gabriel Valley

No matter where in the county your case is being prosecuted, our attorneys are ready to appear and fight for you.

Why Choose Tu Defensor Criminalista for Your Diamond Bar Embezzlement Defense?

When you are facing embezzlement charges, the attorney you choose can mean the difference between a dismissed case, a reduced charge, probation, or years in prison. Here is why clients throughout Diamond Bar and Los Angeles County turn to Tu Defensor Criminalista:

  • Aggressive Pre-Charge Intervention We do not wait for the DA to file a complaint. We engage early, work with prosecutors and investigators directly, and fight to resolve cases before formal charges are ever filed.
  • Deep Knowledge of Financial Crime Defense Embezzlement cases require more than general criminal defense knowledge — they require an understanding of accounting practices, corporate governance, financial regulations, and forensic audit methodology. Our team brings that specialized knowledge to every case.
  • Bilingual Legal Services We serve both English- and Spanish-speaking clients throughout Diamond Bar and the broader Los Angeles County community. Every client deserves to fully understand the charges against them and the strategies available — in the language they’re most comfortable speaking.
  • Comprehensive Coverage Across All Stages From the moment you are first questioned through arraignment, preliminary hearing, motions practice, trial, sentencing, and post-conviction relief, Tu Defensor Criminalista is with you every step of the way.
  • Fighting for the Best Possible Outcome Every case is different. Our goal is always to pursue the outcome that best protects your freedom, your record, and your future — whether that means winning at trial, securing a charge reduction, negotiating favorable plea terms, or pursuing diversion and expungement.

Frequently Asked Questions: Embezzlement Defense in Diamond Bar

What is the difference between embezzlement and theft?

Ordinary theft involves taking property that was never lawfully in your possession. Embezzlement involves misappropriating property that was entrusted to you — meaning you had lawful access but allegedly diverted it for unauthorized purposes. The key distinction is the pre-existing trust relationship between you and the property owner.

Can I be charged with embezzlement even if I intended to pay the money back?

Yes. California courts have held that intent to repay does not negate the fraudulent intent required for embezzlement. If you took or used funds without authorization — even temporarily — prosecutors may still pursue embezzlement charges. However, evidence of intent to repay and actual repayment can be powerful mitigating factors in sentencing negotiations.

What happens if my employer accuses me of embezzlement but doesn’t call the police?

Employers sometimes pursue civil remedies exclusively rather than criminal prosecution. However, even in civil-only situations, you need legal counsel immediately. Civil claims for embezzlement can result in significant damage awards including punitive damages. Additionally, employers can report the conduct to law enforcement at any time — meaning a civil accusation today can become a criminal case tomorrow.

Is embezzlement a felony or misdemeanor in California?

It depends on the value of the property allegedly misappropriated. Embezzlement involving $950 or less is typically a misdemeanor. Embezzlement exceeding $950 is charged as grand theft, which is a wobbler — meaning it can be filed as either a misdemeanor or a felony at prosecutorial discretion. Felony grand theft carries up to three years in county jail or state prison.

Can embezzlement charges be dropped or reduced?

Yes. Charges can be dismissed if the prosecution lacks sufficient evidence, if there are constitutional violations in how evidence was obtained, or if the defense can demonstrate an absence of fraudulent intent. Charges can be reduced through plea negotiations, a PC § 17(b) motion to reduce a felony to a misdemeanor, or through civil compromise under PC § 1377 where the victim accepts restitution.

Will an embezzlement charge affect my professional license?

Almost certainly. Virtually all licensed professions in California — nursing, real estate, accounting, contracting, financial services, insurance, and others — require licensees to disclose criminal convictions and maintain moral fitness standards. A theft or fraud conviction typically triggers mandatory review by the relevant licensing board, and in many cases results in suspension or revocation. Protecting your professional license is a core priority in our defense strategy.

How long does an embezzlement case in Diamond Bar take to resolve?

Case timelines vary significantly depending on the complexity of the financial evidence, the number of counts charged, whether federal agencies are involved, and whether the matter proceeds to trial. Misdemeanor matters can sometimes resolve within a few months. Complex felony embezzlement cases involving large alleged amounts or multiple defendants can take a year or more to fully resolve. We work to move your case toward the best possible resolution as efficiently as possible.

Do I need a lawyer if I plan to pay back the money?

Absolutely. Voluntary repayment after the fact does not prevent prosecution and does not guarantee leniency. In fact, approaching an employer to offer repayment without the advice of counsel can be used as an admission. You need an attorney to manage all communications, negotiate any civil resolution, and ensure that any repayment is structured in a way that maximizes its benefit to your defense while protecting you legally.

What if I was falsely accused of embezzlement by a disgruntled employer?

False accusations of embezzlement do occur — sometimes motivated by a desire to avoid paying earned wages or commissions, to retaliate against an employee who made a workplace complaint, or simply due to poor internal accounting practices. Our firm will aggressively investigate the basis of the accusation, scrutinize the employer’s financial records, and build the strongest possible defense on your behalf.

Can embezzlement charges be expunged from my record?

Misdemeanor embezzlement convictions and felony embezzlement convictions where county jail time (not state prison) was served may be eligible for expungement (dismissal) under California Penal Code § 1203.4[25] after successful completion of probation. An expungement allows you to answer “no” to questions about convictions on most employment applications. Call us to determine if you qualify.

Contact Tu Defensor Criminalista for Diamond Bar Embezzlement Defense Attorney

Remember:

  • Free consultation – call now
  • Request DMV hearing within 10 days of arrest
  • Don’t talk to police without attorney
  • Don’t plead guilty without exploring defenses

Sources

  1. California Penal Code § 503 (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov)
  2. California Penal Code § 487 (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov)
  3. Penal Code § 488 (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov)
  4. Penal Code § 12022.6 (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov)
  5. Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (acfe.com)
  6. California Penal Code § 532 (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov)
  7. California Penal Code § 470 (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov)
  8. California Penal Code § 502 (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov)
  9. California Penal Code § 186.10 (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov)
  10. 18 U.S.C. § 1343 (govinfo.gov)
  11. 18 U.S.C. § 1341 (govinfo.gov)
  12. California’s Department of Justice (oag.ca.gov)
  13. California Department of Consumer Affairs (dca.ca.gov)
  14. 8 U.S.C. § 1227 (uscode.house.gov)
  15. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (uscis.gov)
  16. California Penal Code § 29800 (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov)
  17. 18 U.S.C. § 922(g) (uscode.house.gov)
  18. U.S. Census Bureau data (census.gov)
  19. Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office (da.lacounty.gov)
  20. Los Angeles County’s official data (lacounty.gov)
  21. California Department of Justice’s Criminal Justice Statistics Center (oag.ca.gov)
  22. California Penal Code § 1538.5 (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov)
  23. California Penal Code § 1377 (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov)
  24. California Penal Code § 17(b) (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov)
  25. California Penal Code § 1203.4 (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov)
  26. Proposition 47 (lao.ca.gov)
  27. California Courts — Judicial Branch (courts.ca.gov)
  28. Fifth Amendment right to remain silent (constitution.congress.gov)
  29. California Penal Code § 135 (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov)
  30. California Labor Code (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov)
  31. California Labor Commissioner’s Office (dir.ca.gov)
  32. California Penal Code § 476a (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov)
  33. California Penal Code § 530.5 (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov)
  34. California Penal Code § 550 (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov)
  35. California Insurance Code § 1871.4 (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov)
  36. California Penal Code § 1524 (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov)
  37. California Rules of Court, Rule 4.421 (courts.ca.gov)
  38. Rule 4.423 (courts.ca.gov)
  39. AB 109 (2011) (leginfo.legislature.ca.gov)

Client Trust & Avvo Recognition

Attorney Armando Josué Cespedes is rated 5.0 on Avvo, with 34 five-star reviews from clients praising his dedication, professionalism, and results. Many note how his trial skills and attention to detail led to reduced charges or outright dismissals.

I was arrested for a DUI just recently, since Spanish is my first language, it was important to find a great attorney who was bilingual. Getting your first DUI can...
Christian
Armando cespedes went above and beyond for my case. I was very close to getting my license revoked as I am under the age of 21 and received my second...
Nathan
I was referred to Mr. Cespedes by a family friend who was very pleased with his legal services. Unfortunately, I got a DUI a few months ago and I was...
Connie
He cares and did everything possible to help me resolve my case. I was worried about my hit and run and DUI case. Not only did he go to court...
Pablo M.
Armando gets results with your best interest in mind. I was wrongfully being accused of making primal threats. Even though I was innocent, I was aware that the accusations are...
Raul
Extremely professional I recently had a brief phone consultation with Mr. Cespedes regarding a longtime friend of mine. Although he was unable to assist him with his legal needs, I...
Shereen

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