Embezzlement Lawyer in Mercer County, NJ — What Are Your Defense Options?
Embezzlement in Mercer County is a serious white-collar crime prosecuted under N.J.S.A. 2C:20-8, potentially carrying years in state prison and substantial fines. If you are accused of misappropriating funds, securing a dedicated embezzlement lawyer in Mercer County is critical. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Understanding Embezzlement Charges in New Jersey
Embezzlement, formally known as theft by failure to make required disposition of property received, is defined under N.J.S.A. 2C:20-8. This statute makes it a crime when a person, having obtained property of another and being required to make a specified payment or disposition, deals with the property as their own. The severity of the charge depends on the value of the property involved, ranging from a disorderly persons offense for amounts under $200 to a second-degree crime for amounts over $75,000.
Last verified: March 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Mercer Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, refer to N.J.S.A. 2C:20-8 (official New Jersey Legislature). Court procedures and filings are handled by the Superior Court of NJ, Mercer Vicinage.
handling an Embezzlement Case in Mercer County
Embezzlement cases in Mercer County are prosecuted in the Law Division of the Superior Court. These cases often involve financial records and can be part of broader investigations by state or federal agencies. Prosecutors in Trenton frequently seek significant restitution and may pursue charges that carry mandatory prison time for higher-value cases.
- Initial Investigation & Arrest: You may be contacted by law enforcement or served with a complaint. Do not speak to investigators without your attorney present.
- First Appearance & Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charges in Superior Court and enter a plea.
- Discovery Phase: Your defense attorney will obtain and review all evidence, including financial documents, bank records, and witness statements.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiations: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or challenge the charges. Most cases are resolved through plea negotiations at this stage.
- Trial: If no plea agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a jury trial in the Mercer Vicinage.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence based on statutory guidelines, which can include prison, fines, and restitution.
Potential Penalties for Embezzlement in New Jersey
In Mercer County, embezzlement penalties are determined by the value of the property involved, with higher degrees carrying prison sentences of 5-10 years and fines up to $150,000.
| Degree of Crime | Property Value | Incarceration | Fine |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2nd Degree | Over $75,000 | 5-10 years | Up to $150,000 |
| 3rd Degree | $500 – $75,000 | 3-5 years | Up to $15,000 |
| 4th Degree | $200 – $500 | Up to 18 months | Up to $10,000 |
| Disorderly Persons | Under $200 | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 |
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 every case. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand that an embezzlement charge can threaten your career, reputation, and freedom. Our approach involves a meticulous review of financial transactions and contracts to challenge the prosecution’s claim of criminal intent, a key element in any misappropriation of funds defense.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific case results in Mercer County for embezzlement are not publicly disclosed, our firm’s extensive experience in white-collar crime defense provides a strong foundation. We have successfully defended clients against similar financial fraud charges by challenging the sufficiency of evidence, negotiating for reduced charges, and advocating for alternative sentencing that focuses on restitution. A dedicated white collar crime defense lawyer in Mercer County from our team will work to protect your rights from the initial investigation through resolution.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Mercer County Residents
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) 651-9900
By appointment only.
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Mercer County. We are familiar with the local court procedures at the Mercer Vicinage Courthouse in Trenton. Our firm provides representation for individuals in Trenton, Princeton, Hamilton Township, Ewing, Lawrence, and surrounding communities. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — call (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Embezzlement Defense
What is the difference between embezzlement and theft?
Yes, there is a key difference. Embezzlement involves the unlawful taking of property that was lawfully entrusted to the defendant, such as funds by an employee or fiduciary. General theft typically involves taking property without any prior lawful possession.
Can I go to jail for an embezzlement charge in NJ?
It depends on the degree of the charge. Second-degree embezzlement (over $75,000) carries a presumption of incarceration with a sentencing range of 5-10 years in state prison. Lower-degree charges may result in probation, but jail time is a possibility for any conviction.
What are common defenses to embezzlement?
Common defenses include lack of criminal intent (you believed you were entitled to the funds), authorization or consent from the owner, insufficient evidence to prove the elements of the crime, and mistaken identity or accounting errors.
Should I talk to the police if they suspect me of embezzlement?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a lawyer. Statements you make can be used against you, even if you are trying to explain the situation.
What is restitution in an embezzlement case?
Restitution is a court order requiring the defendant to pay back the full amount of money that was allegedly embezzled. It is a common component of sentencing and may be a condition of probation, even if jail time is avoided.
Related Legal Services in Mercer County
If you are facing other legal challenges, our firm also assists with business law, contract disputes, and federal criminal defense in Mercer County. For more information on our statewide practice, visit our New Jersey civil litigation hub page.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Mercer County cases follow the same route as the rest of the state, and our page on embezzlement cases in New Jersey explains each stage.
Your case in Mercer 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 Mercer County that is the Superior Court of NJ, Mercer Vicinage (7th Vicinage), 175 South Broad Street, Trenton, NJ 08650, telephone (609) 571-4200, 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 Mercer 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: Mercer County NJ lawyers directory · Embezzlement Lawyer Bergen County, NJ · Embezzlement Lawyer Hudson County, NJ · Embezzlement Lawyer Monmouth County, NJ.