Charged With Embezzlement On Long Island? Protect Your Future Now
Embezzlement is a white-collar crime that strikes at the heart of trust, and when accusations arise in the workplace, the damage to a person’s reputation can be immediate and devastating. As a Long Island Embezzlement Lawyer, Scott Gross understands that these cases often involve complex financial records and high-stakes consequences. Unlike theft, embezzlement involves property or funds that the defendant was lawfully entrusted with but allegedly misappropriated for personal gain.
These charges are taken extremely seriously by prosecutors in Nassau County, Suffolk County, and throughout the federal system, and a conviction can result in prison time, significant financial penalties, and lasting damage to your professional reputation.
At The Law Offices of Scott Gross, P.C., we represent employees, executives, business owners, and public officials who have been accused of embezzlement on Long Island. Scott Gross is a trusted Long Island embezzlement lawyer who brings exceptional legal knowledge, investigative skill, and courtroom experience to every case he handles. From the very first consultation, we work tirelessly to protect your rights, your freedom, and your livelihood.
What Is Embezzlement? How New York Law Defines The Crime
Under New York law, embezzlement is not a separately codified offense; it is prosecuted under larceny statutes, specifically as a form of grand larceny or petit larceny, depending on the amount allegedly stolen. The key distinguishing feature of embezzlement is that the defendant had lawful possession or access to the property before allegedly misappropriating it. This distinguishes it from robbery or ordinary theft, where the taking itself is unlawful from the start.
Embezzlement charges can arise in a wide variety of workplace and financial settings. Common scenarios include an employee skimming cash from a business’s registers, an accountant or bookkeeper manipulating financial records to divert funds, a fiduciary misusing assets held in trust, a public official misappropriating government funds, a corporate officer using company accounts for personal expenses, or a nonprofit administrator diverting charitable donations.
The severity of the charges depends primarily on the dollar amount allegedly involved. Petit larceny involving amounts under $1,000 is a misdemeanor, while grand larceny in the first degree, involving amounts of $1 million or more, is a Class B felony carrying up to 25 years in prison. Even mid-range embezzlement allegations can result in felony charges with years of potential incarceration, making it critical to retain an experienced Long Island embezzlement lawyer the moment you learn you are under suspicion.
How We Defend Embezzlement Cases On Long Island
The defense of an embezzlement charge requires a thorough understanding of financial documentation, corporate structures, fiduciary relationships, and the legal standards that govern them. At The Law Offices of Scott Gross, P.C., we bring extensive experience in Criminal Defense, including complex matters involving Federal Crimes, Violent Crimes, Domestic Violence, Drug Crimes, Sex Crimes, and Murder Charges, allowing us to build a powerful and strategic defense on your behalf.
One of the most important elements to challenge in an embezzlement case is intent. The prosecution must prove not only that money or property changed hands, but that the defendant intended to permanently deprive the owner of it. In many cases, what appears to be embezzlement may instead involve authorized conduct, accounting errors, disputed compensation, or misunderstandings about authority. We work closely with forensic accountants and financial experts to reconstruct the flow of funds and present an accurate picture to the court.
We also scrutinize how the investigation was conducted, including how evidence was gathered and whether proper Warrants were obtained. If law enforcement or financial institutions failed to follow proper procedures, that evidence may be challenged. Scott Gross will leave no avenue of defense unexplored in protecting your rights.
The Importance of Acting Quickly
In embezzlement cases, time is of the essence. Evidence can be altered or destroyed, and witness memories fade. Prosecutors often spend months building their case before making an arrest, giving them a significant head start. The moment you suspect you are under investigation, or your employer raises allegations, you should consult with a skilled Long Island embezzlement lawyer immediately.
Do not speak with your employer’s investigators, human resources personnel, or law enforcement without an attorney present. Anything you say can be used against you. Our firm regularly handles matters involving DWI, Traffic Tickets, Weapon & Firearm Possession, Orders of Protection, Indecent Exposure, and DMV Hearings, giving us a broad perspective when defending clients in high-stakes situations. Scott Gross will stand by your side from day one, ensuring your rights are protected and that no action strengthens the case against you.
Contact The Law Offices of Scott Gross, P.C. today for a confidential consultation. We are ready to fight for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be fired and charged criminally at the same time for embezzlement?
Yes. Embezzlement allegations can lead to both employment termination and criminal prosecution because they are separate legal matters. An employer may fire you based on its internal investigation, while law enforcement may independently pursue charges. You may also face civil liability if the employer seeks to recover alleged losses. Early representation can help you address both issues strategically.
What if I did not intend to steal the money? Can I still be convicted?
Intent is a key element in an embezzlement case, and prosecutors must prove it beyond a reasonable doubt. If there was a genuine misunderstanding about authorization, compensation, or ownership, that may support a defense. Proving lack of intent often requires a close review of financial records, agreements, and communications. A strong defense lawyer can build that argument on your behalf.
What is the difference between wire fraud and mail fraud?
Wire fraud and mail fraud are closely related federal offenses, differing primarily in the communication method used. Mail fraud involves postal or delivery services, while wire fraud involves electronic communications such as phone calls or emails. In many cases, both charges are brought together due to overlapping conduct.
Can embezzlement charges be resolved without going to trial?
In many cases, yes. Depending on the facts, it may be possible to negotiate reduced charges, pursue restitution-based resolutions, or present mitigating evidence for a lesser sentence. In other cases, a trial may be the best option when the evidence does not support a conviction. An experienced attorney can assess the strongest path forward.
Will an embezzlement conviction affect my professional license?
Yes. An embezzlement conviction can seriously affect professional licenses in fields such as law, medicine, finance, real estate, and education. Licensing boards often treat crimes involving dishonesty as especially serious grounds for suspension or revocation. That is why it is important to understand the full consequences before accepting any plea.
Book a Free Consultation
LONG ISLAND CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY
Scott Gross
Defending the Rights of the Criminally Accused
