Baltimore Embezzlement Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Embezzlement in Baltimore is a serious white-collar crime involving the misappropriation of funds by someone entrusted with them, prosecuted under Maryland law. If you are under investigation or charged, securing a skilled embezzlement lawyer Baltimore is critical. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused defense for these complex financial cases.
Understanding Embezzlement Charges in Maryland
Embezzlement is a type of theft crime defined under Maryland’s consolidated theft statutes. Unlike simple theft, it involves a violation of trust, where funds or property lawfully in your possession are converted for personal use. The severity of the charge often depends on the value of the property involved, ranging from a misdemeanor to a felony.
Last verified: April 2026 | Baltimore City Circuit Court | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official state code, see the Maryland General Assembly statutes. For local court procedures, visit the Maryland Judiciary website.
Strategic Defense for Misappropriation of Funds Allegations
Defending against misappropriation of funds allegations requires a detailed, evidence-based strategy. A common local procedural fact is that Baltimore prosecutors often rely heavily on financial audits and paper trails provided by employers or institutions. An effective white collar crime defense lawyer Baltimore will scrutinize this evidence for errors, chain-of-custody issues, or lack of intent.
- Secure Immediate Legal Counsel: Do not speak to investigators or your employer without an attorney present.
- Evidence Preservation: Your lawyer will work to secure all relevant financial records, emails, and communications.
- Investigation & Analysis: We conduct an independent investigation to challenge the prosecution’s narrative and evidence.
- Negotiation & Litigation: We explore all options, from pre-trial negotiations to vigorously defending you at trial if necessary.
Potential Penalties for Embezzlement in Baltimore
In Baltimore, embezzlement penalties are based on the value of the property, with felony charges for amounts over $1,500 carrying potential state prison time.
| Value of Property | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under $100 | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | Restitution, probation |
| $100 to $1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | Restitution, probation, permanent record |
| $1,500 to $25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | Restitution, felony record, loss of professional licenses |
| Over $25,000 | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | Restitution, felony record, severe professional consequences |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Financial Crime Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings decades of combined legal experience to every case. Our founder, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands both sides of the courtroom. This background is invaluable when building a defense against complex financial crimes like embezzlement, where intent and evidence interpretation are everything.
Building Your Defense Strategy
Every embezzlement case is unique. Potential defense strategies we explore include lack of criminal intent (you believed you were entitled to the funds), authorization, insufficient evidence, mistaken identity, or procedural errors in the investigation. An experienced embezzlement lawyer Baltimore clients trust will identify the strongest angle for your situation.
Contact Our Baltimore Area Office
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 the Baltimore area and surrounding communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between embezzlement and theft?
Yes, there is a key difference. Theft generally involves taking property you have no right to. Embezzlement involves unlawfully taking property that was lawfully in your possession due to a position of trust, like an employee, trustee, or fiduciary.
Can I go to jail for a first-time embezzlement offense in Maryland?
It depends on the value of the property. For amounts over $1,500, state prison time is a possibility under Maryland law, even for first-time offenders. However, an experienced attorney can often argue for alternatives like probation, especially if restitution is made.
What should I do if my employer accuses me of embezzlement?
Do not resign or sign anything without legal advice. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a white collar crime defense lawyer Baltimore residents recommend. Anything you say can be used against you in a criminal case.
How long does an embezzlement case take?
The timeline varies widely. A simple misdemeanor case might resolve in a few months, while a complex felony case involving forensic accounting can take a year or more to move through the Baltimore City Circuit Court system.
Will I have to pay restitution?
Yes, in almost all embezzlement convictions, the court will order restitution—paying back the full amount allegedly taken. This is separate from any fines or court costs. An attorney can sometimes negotiate the restitution amount.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Under Va. Code § 13.1-1000 et seq., state law governs this practice area.