Prince George’s County Embezzlement Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Embezzlement in Prince George’s County is a serious white-collar crime prosecuted under Maryland law, often as a felony carrying significant prison time and fines. If you are accused of misappropriation of funds, securing an experienced embezzlement lawyer in Prince George’s County is critical. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong, strategic defense for individuals and professionals facing these complex charges.
Understanding Maryland Embezzlement Laws
Embezzlement in Maryland is not a single, standalone statute but is prosecuted under the state’s theft laws. The core concept involves the unlawful taking or conversion of property that has been entrusted to you. This makes it distinct from other theft crimes, as the initial possession of the funds or property was lawful. The severity of the charge depends heavily on the value of the property involved.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince George’s County Circuit Court | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official statutory language, refer to the Maryland theft statutes (Md. Code, Criminal Law, Title 7). For local court procedures and filing information, visit the Prince George’s County Circuit Court website.
The Local Process for an Embezzlement Case in Prince George’s County
An embezzlement charge in Prince George’s County typically begins with an investigation, which may be conducted by a private entity, local police, or a state agency. The case is then presented to the State’s Attorney’s Office for prosecution. Given the financial and documentary nature of the evidence, these cases often involve complex pre-trial motions concerning the admissibility of financial records and experienced testimony.
- Initial Investigation & Accusation: You may be contacted by an employer, auditor, or law enforcement regarding missing funds.
- Formal Charges Filed: The State’s Attorney files a criminal information or seeks an indictment, formally charging you with theft/embezzlement.
- Arraignment in Circuit Court: You appear before a judge, are formally advised of the charges, and enter a plea of not guilty.
- Discovery & Pre-Trial Motions: Your defense attorney reviews all financial evidence, audits, and witness statements, filing motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if procedural errors exist.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Based on the strength of the evidence and defense, your attorney will negotiate for a reduction or dismissal, or prepare for a jury trial.
- Sentencing (if applicable): If convicted, the court will impose a sentence based on statutory guidelines, which may include restitution.
Potential Penalties for Embezzlement in Maryland
In Prince George’s County, embezzlement penalties are dictated by the value of the property, ranging from a misdemeanor with minimal jail time to a felony with decades in prison.
| Offense Level (By Value) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under $100 | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | Restitution required |
| $100 to under $1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | Restitution; permanent record |
| $1,500 to under $25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | Restitution; loss of professional licenses |
| $25,000 to under $100,000 | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | Restitution; severe impact on employment and future |
| $100,000 or more | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $25,000 | Restitution; asset forfeiture possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Financial Crime Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings decades of combined experience to the defense table. Our firm’s founder, a former prosecutor, understands the tactics used by the state to build financial crime cases. We approach each embezzlement defense with a detailed analysis of the financial trail, intent, and the circumstances of the alleged misappropriation of funds.
Building a Defense Against Embezzlement Charges
An effective defense against embezzlement charges often hinges on attacking the element of intent. We work to demonstrate a lack of fraudulent intent, which may involve showing you had permission, believed you had a claim to the funds, or that the taking was a misunderstanding or accounting error. In other cases, challenging the validity or interpretation of financial evidence is key. For instance, a strong white collar crime defense lawyer in Prince George’s County will scrutinize audit methods, chain of custody for documents, and the prosecution’s valuation of the alleged loss.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Prince George’s County Location
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
By appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888) 437-7747
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
We serve clients throughout Prince George’s County, including those near the Prince George’s County Circuit Court in Upper Marlboro, and communities like Bowie, College Park, Laurel, and Hyattsville.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between embezzlement and theft?
Yes, there is a key difference. Theft generally involves taking property without the owner’s consent. Embezzlement involves the fraudulent conversion of property that was lawfully entrusted to you. The breach of trust is a central element of embezzlement charges.
Can I go to jail for a first-time embezzlement offense in Maryland?
It depends on the value of the funds involved. For amounts under $100, jail is possible but not mandatory. For amounts over $1,500, classified as a felony, incarceration is a very real possibility under Maryland sentencing guidelines, even for first-time offenders.
What should I do if my employer accuses me of embezzlement?
Do not discuss the details with your employer or colleagues without an attorney present. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a misappropriation of funds defense lawyer in Prince George’s County. Anything you say can be used against you in a criminal investigation.
Is restitution always required in an embezzlement case?
Virtually always, yes. Maryland courts almost invariably order restitution—repayment of the allegedly stolen funds—as part of any resolution, whether through a plea agreement or after a conviction at trial. Negotiating a manageable restitution plan is often a critical part of defense strategy.
How long does an embezzlement investigation take before charges are filed?
It varies widely. A simple internal company audit may lead to quick police involvement. Complex cases involving large sums or multiple transactions can be investigated for months or even years by state or federal agencies before any formal charges are brought against an individual.
Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer | Montgomery County Embezzlement Lawyer | Prince George’s County Fraud Lawyer
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal guidance regarding your embezzlement case in Prince George’s County.
For the background behind a Prince George’s County charge, our page explains how Maryland federal courts handle embezzlement.