Facing embezzlement and financial misconduct allegations throughout Florida, moving quickly to analyze financial evidence, challenge the prosecution’s narrative, and protect what matters most before the case escalates.
Depending on the allegations, a conviction can mean:
Depending on the circumstances, potential outcomes may include:
Early legal intervention and independent financial analysis often determine what outcomes remain available before prosecutors solidify their case.
Our firm approaches these cases strategically from first contact.
Florida does not have a separate embezzlement statute. These allegations are prosecuted as theft under Florida Statute 812.014, specifically misappropriation of property entrusted to the accused through employment or a fiduciary relationship. The severity of the charge depends on the dollar amount involved, ranging from a misdemeanor to a first-degree felony carrying up to 30 years in prison.
Yes. The prosecution must prove criminal intent, that the accused knowingly and intentionally misappropriated funds. If the financial records support an innocent explanation, if the accounting analysis is flawed, or if the prosecution’s forensic conclusions can be disputed, charges can be challenged and potentially dismissed before or during trial.
Returning the funds does not eliminate the charge, but it is a significant factor in how prosecutors and judges handle the case. An experienced defense attorney uses voluntary restitution strategically as part of a negotiated resolution, it is not an admission of guilt and should never be framed as one without legal guidance.
Yes, often immediately. CPAs, attorneys, financial advisors, real estate agents, and healthcare professionals all face licensing board scrutiny when charged with embezzlement. Protecting your license requires coordinating your criminal defense strategy with your licensing board response from the very beginning of the case.
Federal Statute 18 U.S.C. 666 covers theft from organizations receiving federal funding, including nonprofits, government contractors, healthcare entities, and educational institutions. Amounts over $5,000 qualify for federal prosecution carrying up to 10 years in prison, significantly higher exposure than comparable state charges.
The prosecution retains a forensic accountant to present the financial narrative supporting the charges. Defense counsel retains an independent forensic accountant to challenge that analysis, identifying errors, alternative explanations, missing context, and gaps in the prosecution’s financial theory that may undermine the case entirely.
Do not attend that meeting without first speaking to an attorney. Internal investigations frequently share information with law enforcement, and statements made during employer interviews can later be used in a criminal prosecution. An attorney can advise you on how to respond to employer inquiries without compromising your legal position.
Yes. An employer or organization that alleges financial misconduct may simultaneously pursue criminal charges through law enforcement and a civil lawsuit seeking repayment of the alleged funds, damages, and legal fees. The two proceedings operate independently, and statements or admissions made in one can affect the other. Coordinating your defense across both is essential.
