Burlington County Embezzlement Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Embezzlement in Burlington County is a serious white-collar crime prosecuted under N.J.S.A. 2C:20-2, Theft by Unlawful Taking, with penalties ranging from disorderly persons offenses to crimeies of the second degree. If you are accused of misappropriation of funds, securing a skilled embezzlement lawyer in Burlington County is critical. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Understanding Embezzlement Charges in New Jersey
Embezzlement, often prosecuted as theft by unlawful taking or misapplication of entrusted property, involves the fraudulent conversion of property by someone to whom it has been entrusted. In New Jersey, these charges are governed by N.J.S.A. 2C:20-2. The severity of the charge depends on the value of the property taken and the circumstances of the offense. A conviction can result in significant prison time, fines, restitution orders, and a permanent criminal record that affects employment and professional licenses.
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, refer to the New Jersey Statutes Title 2C, Chapter 20-2. For local court procedures, visit the Burlington Vicinage website.
Local Defense Strategy for Burlington County
Defending an embezzlement case in Burlington County requires an understanding of local court procedures. The Law Division of the Superior Court handles these felony-level cases. Prosecutors in the Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office often pursue these charges aggressively, especially in cases involving businesses or public trust. An effective white collar crime defense lawyer in Burlington County will scrutinize the state’s evidence for weaknesses in proving intent, challenge the valuation of the alleged loss, and explore pre-trial diversion programs where applicable.
- Initial Consultation & Case Assessment: A lawyer will review all allegations, financial records, and communications to identify the state’s theory and potential defenses.
- Investigation & Evidence Review: Your defense team will conduct a parallel investigation, which may involve forensic accounting, to challenge the prosecution’s claims of misappropriation of funds.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Filing motions to suppress improperly obtained evidence or to dismiss charges based on insufficient evidence or procedural errors.
- Negotiation & Plea Bargaining: If appropriate, negotiating with prosecutors for a reduction in charges or a favorable plea agreement that minimizes penalties.
- Trial Preparation & Defense: If the case proceeds to trial, presenting a compelling defense to the jury, often focusing on lack of criminal intent or authorization for the transactions in question.
- Sentencing & Mitigation: If convicted, advocating for the most lenient sentence possible, including alternatives to incarceration such as probation and restitution.
Potential Penalties for Embezzlement in New Jersey
In Burlington County, embezzlement penalties are determined by the degree of the theft, with second-degree charges carrying 5-10 years in prison and fines up to $150,000.
| Value of Property / Circumstance | Degree / Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $75,000 or more | Second-Degree Crime | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | Restitution, felony record, loss of professional licenses. |
| $500 to $74,999 | Third-Degree Crime | 3-5 years | Up to $15,000 | Restitution, felony record. |
| Under $500 | Disorderly Persons Offense | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | Restitution, criminal record. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Embezzlement Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to financial crime cases. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand that an embezzlement accusation can devastate your personal and professional life. Our approach is to mount an aggressive, detail-oriented defense from the first consultation.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific local results for embezzlement in Burlington County are not enumerated, our firm’s extensive history in financial crime defense demonstrates our capability. We have successfully defended clients against similar theft and fraud charges by challenging the state’s evidence, negotiating pre-trial interventions, and achieving dismissals or charge reductions. Our commitment is to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Burlington County Embezzlement Defense Team
If you need an embezzlement lawyer in Burlington County, our New Jersey location serves clients throughout the county. Our location is accessible via the NJ Turnpike, I-295, and Route 130. We provide experienced legal defense for individuals in Mount Holly, Mount Laurel, Moorestown, Burlington City, Cinnaminson, Evesham, Medford, Bordentown, Pemberton, Willingboro, and Marlton.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Embezzlement Defense in Burlington County
What is the difference between embezzlement and theft in New Jersey?
Yes, there is a key difference. While both are prosecuted under theft statutes, embezzlement specifically involves property that was lawfully entrusted to the defendant, who then allegedly converted it for personal use. General theft does not require a prior position of trust.
Can I go to jail for a first-time embezzlement charge in Burlington County?
It depends on the degree of the charge. Second and third-degree embezzlement are indictable crimes (felonies) in New Jersey and carry state prison sentences. Even a first-time offender can face incarceration, though a strong defense may seek alternatives like probation or pre-trial intervention (PTI). The value of the alleged loss is the primary factor.
What are common defenses to embezzlement charges?
Common defenses include lack of intent to steal (you believed you were authorized), consent from the owner, mistaken identity, insufficient evidence to prove the alleged value, and procedural errors in the investigation. A misappropriation of funds defense lawyer in Burlington County will analyze the specific facts to identify the strongest defense strategy.
Should I speak to investigators if I am accused of embezzlement?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Anything you say can be used against you. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a white collar crime defense lawyer in Burlington County. Early legal intervention is important to prevent self-incrimination.
What is Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI) for embezzlement?
PTI is a diversion program for first-time, non-violent offenders. If accepted, you complete probationary terms (like community service and restitution) and the charges are dismissed. Eligibility for PTI in an embezzlement case is not guaranteed and depends on the prosecutor’s discretion, the amount involved, and your background.
How long does an embezzlement case take in Burlington County?
The timeline varies. A case in the Law Division of Superior Court can take 12 to 24 months or longer to resolve, depending on the issues involved, evidence, and whether it goes to trial. Early settlement conferences and case management orders set the pace. Your lawyer can provide a more specific estimate after reviewing your case.
Related Legal Services in Burlington County
If you are facing other legal challenges, our firm also assists with business law, contract disputes, and federal criminal defense in Burlington County. For more information on our statewide practice, visit our New Jersey civil litigation hub.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal guidance regarding your embezzlement case in Burlington County.
Burlington County cases are handled by our New Jersey embezzlement practice, where the whole process is set out.
Your case in Burlington County, New Jersey
Indictable charges are heard in the Criminal Part of the Law Division; disorderly-persons offenses are heard in the municipal court where the charge was filed. In Burlington County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Burlington Vicinage (8th Vicinage), 49 Rancocas Road, Mount Holly, NJ 08060, telephone (609) 518-2500, open Mon-Fri 8:30AM-4:30PM. Court procedures change; confirm the current schedule on the official vicinage website or with the clerk before you file or appear.
The governing law for this topic is the New Jersey Code of Criminal Justice, N.J.S.A. Title 2C. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles Burlington County matters from its New Jersey location at 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724; meetings are by appointment. Request a New Jersey consultation at (888) 437-7747 or (609) 983-0003.
Related New Jersey pages: Burlington County NJ lawyers directory · Embezzlement Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Embezzlement Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Embezzlement Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.