Lancaster Embezzlement Lawyer
Being under investigation or formally charged with embezzlement can turn your life upside down. Your job, reputation, and freedom are all on the line. If you’ve been accused of misappropriating funds or property, you need a skilled embezzlement lawyer who can act fast and protect your future.
At Marinaro Law, we provide strategic, aggressive defense for clients facing embezzlement charges in Lancaster County. Attorney Marinaro has over 30 years of experience as a criminal defense lawyer, including extensive work with white-collar crime and embezzlement defense. Whether you’ve just learned you’re under investigation or have already been charged, we may be able to intervene before charges are even filed.
What Is Embezzlement?
Embezzlement is a type of white-collar crime in which an individual has been entrusted with money or property and uses it for personal gain. Unlike traditional theft, the accused initially has lawful access to the assets but later misuses them to violate that trust.
Some examples of embezzlement include:
- Creating false expenses to divert the funds into your own account
- Funds are paid to a “contractor” who is conspiring with the offender to steal the money
- Fraudulently stamping or signing the signature of the owner of the account onto a check
- A payroll employee who discreetly increases their hourly rate or salary
These are serious charges with serious consequences. You need a Lancaster embezzlement lawyer who understands how to analyze financial records, challenge the prosecution’s narrative, and protect your rights at every stage of the legal process.
What Are the Penalties for Embezzlement of Property in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, embezzlement is a crime under 18 Pennsylvania Const. Stat. section 3927. It’s categorized as a type of theft by failure to make the required disposition of funds received. It differs from stealing because the offender initially has access to the funds for a lawful purpose.
They then transfer the funds for personal use or to someone who does not have a lawful use for them. Penalties vary based on the property’s value, but all charges can leave a permanent mark on your record.
Below is a summary of the potential charges and penalties you could face:
| Property Value | Charge Classification | Potential Penalties |
|---|---|---|
| Less than $50 | Third-Degree Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year in jail and fines up to $2,500 |
| $50 to $199 | Second-Degree Misdemeanor | Up to 2 years in prison and fines up to $5,000 |
| $200 to $1,999 | First-Degree Misdemeanor | Up to 5 years in prison and fines up to $10,000 |
| $2,000 to $99,999 | Third-Degree Felony | Up to 7 years in prison and fines up to $15,000 |
| $100,000 to $499,999 | Second-Degree Felony | Up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $25,000 |
| $500,000 or more | First-Degree Felony | Up to 20 years in prison and the highest fines permitted |
Don’t wait for charges to escalate or evidence to mount—your best defense begins when you call us!
Why You Need an Embezzlement Defense Lawyer?
Whether you’re under investigation or already arrested, having the right embezzlement defense attorney can be the difference between freedom and a felony record. Prosecutors aggressively pursue white-collar crime, and embezzlement carries both criminal and civil penalties—plus long-term damage to your career and reputation.
Marinaro Law brings:
30+ Years of Experience
We bring decades of courtroom and negotiation experience to your defense
White-Collar Crime Focus
We understand the nuances of financial and embezzlement cases that general lawyers might miss.
Early Intervention Tactics
We act fast to protect you—sometimes even before charges are filed—potentially avoiding prosecution.
Proven Client Results
Our track record shows successful case outcomes and strong defense strategies in complex cases.
We take immediate action to preserve evidence, challenge questionable charges, and negotiate for case dismissals, reduced charges, or alternative sentencing.
FAQs About Embezzlement Charges in Pennsylvania
Below are answers to common questions to help you navigate this complex situation and understand when to call an experienced embezzlement defense attorney.
What Is Embezzlement?
Embezzlement occurs when someone legally entrusted with money or property uses it for their benefit. It is considered a white-collar crime and can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the amount involved.
How Is Embezzlement Different From Theft?
The main difference lies in access. Embezzlement involves lawful access to funds that are then misused, while theft involves unlawfully taking property to which you had no right of access.
What Are the Penalties for Embezzlement in Pennsylvania?
Penalties range from misdemeanors with jail time and fines to felony convictions for up to 20 years. The severity depends on the amount stolen and whether other aggravating factors exist.
How Can I Get Out of Embezzlement Charges?
While dismissal is never guaranteed, a skilled embezzlement lawyer may challenge the evidence, prove a lack of intent, or show procedural errors. In some cases, early intervention may prevent charges from being filed.
Can You Go to Jail for Embezzlement?
Yes. Even misdemeanor-level embezzlement can result in jail time. Felony embezzlement convictions often carry multi-year prison sentences.
What Kind of Lawyer Do I Need for Embezzlement?
You need a criminal defense attorney with experience in white-collar crimes, specifically embezzlement. An experienced embezzlement criminal defense lawyer understands your case’s financial and legal complexities.
Don’t Let an Embezzlement Charge Ruin Your Future
If you’ve been accused of embezzlement, you need more than just legal advice—you need a strategic defense plan built by a top Lancaster embezzlement attorney. A misdemeanor conviction can follow you for life, affecting your employment, housing, and personal relationships.
Protect your future. Protect your name. Schedule a consultation with Marinaro Law today!
