California Penal Code 503

Have you been charged with Embezzlement in California? Violation of Penal Code 503 can be a serious misdemeanor or felony offense. California prosecutors are cracking down on fraudulent criminal offenses now more than ever. If you are not prepared to mount a credible defense, you may be ordered to spend years in jail and pay thousands of dollars in penalties. Call us today to find out how our attorneys can help

PC 503 Defined

Embezzlement is defined as stealing something that was entrusted to you.

It is another way of committing theft (whether it be petty or grand theft), and the most common occurrences of embezzlement take place when an employee commits fraud and steals from their employer.

In order to prosecute forCPC 503 Embezzlement, the state has the burden to prove that:

• The accused had a rapport/bond with the victim
• The accused, based on this rapport, was handed over a property
• The accused went on anyway to deprive the victim of this property by stealing

Some of those charged with this offense are involved in other illegal schemes to obtain money. It is not unheard of for someone that is charged with this offense to face charges for violating PC 518 for extortion or other crimes governing white collar offenses.

Penalties for 503 CPC Violations

The penalties or punishment for embezzlement penal code violations depend on the value:

• Petty theft, which is stealing property valued at less than $950
• Grand theft, which is stealing property valued at more than $950

Embezzlement can be filed as a misdemeanor or felony offense, and punishments vary based on the offense:

Petty theft embezzlement is a misdemeanor punishable by:

• A fine of up to $1000 and/or
• Imprisonment in county jail for up to six months

Grand theft embezzlement can be filed under (felony or misdemeanor), and those found guilty can face:

Misdemeanor:

• Up to I Year in the Orange County Jail
• A maximum $1,000 fine

Felony:

• 16 Months-2-3 Years in the California State Prison
• A maximum $10,000 fine

Other Potential Penalties

If during a year, the guilty party stole more than $950 from their employer, fines will be increased and the accused will be fined based on each act of fraud.

Embezzlement Legal Defense

If you are facing charges for California Penal Code Section 503 Embezzlement, we can help. MacGregor & Collins are ready to provide you the Orange County white collar attorney services you need. We will help you understand the charges against you and work tirelessly to get you the best possible outcome for your case. Call MacGregor & Collins today at (844) 285-9559.