If you’ve been accused of embezzlement in Florida, you’re probably feeling anxious, confused, and unsure of what comes next. These types of charges can carry serious consequences—both legally and personally. At Central Justice, we help individuals across Florida who are facing embezzlement accusations. Our goal is to protect your rights, explain your options clearly, and give you the support you need to move forward.
What Is Embezzlement?
Embezzlement is a type of theft, but it’s not the kind that happens in dark alleys or with breaking and entering. It involves someone who was trusted with money or property and is accused of using it for their own benefit.
In Florida, embezzlement typically falls under the state’s theft laws. What sets it apart is the element of trust. The person charged usually had lawful access to the property, but not permission to take it or use it in the way they did.
Some common examples include:
- An employee skimming money from a cash register
- A bookkeeper moving company funds into a personal account
- A caregiver using a client’s credit card for personal shopping
Even if there’s no physical theft—just electronic transfers or unauthorized use—embezzlement charges can still apply.
Penalties for Embezzlement in Florida
The charges for embezzlement in Florida depend on the value of what was allegedly taken. The more that’s involved, the more serious the consequences.
Here’s how it generally breaks down:
- Under $100 – Petit theft (second-degree misdemeanor), punishable by up to 60 days in jail
- $100 to $749 – Petit theft (first-degree misdemeanor), up to 1 year in jail
- $750 to $19,999 – Grand theft (third-degree felony), up to 5 years in prison
- $20,000 to $99,999 – Grand theft (second-degree felony), up to 15 years in prison
- $100,000 or more – Grand theft (first-degree felony), up to 30 years in prison
These penalties are outlined in Florida Statute § 812.014. In addition to jail or prison, you could face fines, probation, and a lasting criminal record. Even for a first offense, the impact on your life can be profound. If you’re not a U.S. citizen, an embezzlement conviction may also affect your immigration status, including the risk of deportation or denial of future residency or citizenship applications.
Common Defenses to Embezzlement Charges
Every case is different, and the right defense will depend on the facts. Here are a few common strategies that may apply:
- Lack of intent – If you didn’t mean to take or misuse the property, the prosecution may have a hard time proving their case.
- Authorization – You may have had permission to use the funds or believed you did.
- Accounting errors – Sometimes, what looks like theft is really a mistake or miscommunication.
- False accusations – Personal conflicts or internal disputes can lead to wrongful claims.
We’ll listen to your side, look closely at the evidence, and build a strategy based on your unique situation. Our job is to question the allegations and push back when things don’t add up.
How We Can Help You
At Central Justice, we take the time to understand what’s really going on—not just what’s written in a police report. If you’re facing embezzlement charges, here’s how we can step in:
- We’ll review the financial records, emails, contracts, and any other documents that matter.
- We’ll question the way the investigation was handled and challenge weak or missing evidence.
- We’ll communicate with the prosecutor to explore every possible resolution.
Whether we’re seeking to get the charges dismissed, negotiate a favorable outcome, or take your case to trial, we’ll stand beside you throughout the process.
Contact an Experienced Orlando Embezzlement Attorney
If you’re under investigation or have been arrested for embezzlement, don’t wait. The sooner we get involved, the more options you may have. A confidential consultation with our team can give you a better understanding of what to expect and how we can help. At Central Justice, we’re here to protect your future—not just defend your case. Call us today to get started.