Union County Embezzlement Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Embezzlement in Union County is a serious white-collar crime prosecuted under New Jersey theft statutes, potentially carrying years in prison and substantial fines. If you are under investigation or have been charged, securing an experienced embezzlement lawyer Union County is critical. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for allegations of misappropriation of funds.
Understanding Embezzlement Charges in New Jersey
Embezzlement is a specific type of theft crime defined under New Jersey’s theft statutes. It involves the unlawful taking or conversion of property, money, or assets that were lawfully entrusted to the defendant. Unlike other thefts, the initial possession of the property is legal, but the subsequent appropriation for personal use is not. Charges are typically brought under N.J.S.A. 2C:20-1 et seq., which covers theft by unlawful taking or disposition.
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
The severity of the charge depends heavily on the value of the property embezzled. New Jersey law classifies theft offenses by degree, directly impacting potential penalties. A skilled misappropriation of funds defense lawyer Union County will immediately scrutinize the prosecution’s valuation of the alleged loss, as this is often a key point of contention and a potential avenue for defense or charge reduction.
Official Legal Resources
- N.J.S.A. 2C:20-1 et seq. (Official New Jersey Theft Statutes)
- Superior Court of New Jersey, Union Vicinage
The Local Court Process for Embezzlement Cases
Embezzlement cases in Union County are prosecuted in the Law Division of the Superior Court, located in Elizabeth. These are indictable offenses (New Jersey’s equivalent of felonies), meaning the process begins with a complaint, proceeds to a grand jury for indictment, and is then adjudicated in Superior Court. The process involves mandatory discovery, pre-trial conferences, and potentially financial evidence.
- Initial Complaint & Arrest: A complaint is filed, and an arrest warrant may be issued. Do not speak to investigators without your attorney present.
- First Appearance & Detention Hearing: You will be advised of the charges. Your attorney can argue for your release on conditions.
- Grand Jury Presentation: The prosecutor presents evidence to a grand jury to secure an indictment, moving the case to Superior Court.
- Pre-Trial Conferences & Discovery: Your defense lawyer will file motions, review all financial evidence, and engage in plea negotiations if appropriate.
- Trial or Disposition: If no plea agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial where the state must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, your attorney will advocate for the most lenient sentence possible and explore all appellate options.
Potential Penalties for Embezzlement in NJ
In Union County, embezzlement penalties are dictated by the degree of the theft offense, which is based on the value of the property involved, with fines, restitution, and potential prison time.
| Offense Degree | Property Value | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2nd Degree | $75,000+ | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 | Restitution, felony record, loss of professional licenses. |
| 3rd Degree | $500 – $74,999 | 3-5 years | Up to $15,000 | Restitution, felony record, potential license impact. |
| 4th Degree | $200 – $499 | Up to 18 months | Up to $10,000 | Restitution, criminal record. |
| Disorderly Persons | Under $200 | Up to 6 months (county jail) | Up to $1,000 | Restitution, misdemeanor 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, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. 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 reputation, career, and future. Our approach is to mount an aggressive, detail-oriented defense from the very first moment you contact us.
Our Approach to Embezzlement Defense
An effective defense against embezzlement charges requires a meticulous, multi-faceted strategy. As an experienced white collar crime defense lawyer Union County, our team immediately works to secure all evidence, including bank records, employment contracts, and internal communications. We analyze the prosecution’s case for weaknesses, such as lack of criminal intent, authorization for the use of funds, flawed accounting, or mistaken identity. We may also negotiate for pre-trial intervention (PTI) programs or other diversionary options for eligible clients to avoid a permanent conviction.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Union County Embezzlement Lawyers
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New Jersey Location — 44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (732) 334-7465
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients at Union County courts in Elizabeth. We are accessible via the NJ Turnpike, Garden State Parkway, Route 22, and I-78. If you are searching for an embezzlement lawyer Union County near Elizabeth, Union Township, Plainfield, Westfield, Scotch Plains, Cranford, Summit, Linden, Rahway, Clark, Roselle, or Springfield, contact us for a consultation. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Embezzlement Defense in Union County
What is the difference between embezzlement and theft?
Yes, there is a key difference. Embezzlement involves the fraudulent conversion of property that was lawfully entrusted to the defendant. General theft involves taking property without any right to initial possession. This distinction is important for your defense strategy.
Can I go to jail for a first-time embezzlement charge in NJ?
It depends on the degree of the charge. Second and third-degree crimes carry state prison sentences. However, for first-time offenders charged with third or fourth-degree crimes, a skilled attorney may argue for probation, Pre-Trial Intervention (PTI), or other alternatives to incarceration. The specific facts and value involved are critical.
What are common defenses to an embezzlement charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent (you believed you were authorized), mistake of fact, insufficient evidence that you were the one who took the funds, duress, entrapment, or that the value alleged is incorrect, which could reduce the degree of the offense. An attorney will identify the best defense based on your case details.
Will I lose my professional license if convicted?
It is a strong possibility. Convictions for crimes involving dishonesty, like embezzlement, often trigger disciplinary action from state licensing boards for professions such as law, finance, real estate, and healthcare. A primary goal of your defense is to avoid a conviction that would mandate such a report.
Should I talk to my employer or law enforcement if I’m suspected?
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 criminal defense lawyer. Do not attempt to explain or justify your actions without legal counsel present.
How quickly should I contact a lawyer after being accused?
Immediately. Early intervention by an embezzlement lawyer Union County is vital. Your attorney can advise you during internal investigations, communicate with law enforcement on your behalf to prevent missteps, and begin building your defense before formal charges are even filed, which can significantly impact the case outcome.
Union County is one part of a statewide practice, and our page on embezzlement lawyer New Jersey covers the process from start to finish.
Your case in Union 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 Union County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage (12th Vicinage), 2 Broad Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07207, telephone (908) 787-1650, 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 Union 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: Union County NJ lawyers directory · Embezzlement Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Embezzlement Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Embezzlement Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.