Embezzlement Defense Attorneys

Convictions for theft, embezzlement, fraud, or forgery can damage careers, restrict employment opportunities, and harm reputations. Under Washington law (RCW 10.37.110), theft involves exerting unauthorized control over the property or service of another person with the intent to deprive. At the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer, we provide experienced defense for embezzlement and employee theft charges throughout Southwest Washington.

Penalties for Theft and Embezzlement

Washington law classifies theft in three degrees based on the value of the property or services involved:

Additional penalties apply for Theft of a Firearm, regardless of value. Courts also typically order full restitution in embezzlement cases.

Valuation Disputes

Prosecutors sometimes charge offenses at a higher degree than the evidence supports. Fair market value assessments can exceed replacement costs, though the condition of the property at the time of the alleged theft matters legally. An experienced defense attorney will scrutinize the prosecution's valuation and challenge inflated figures to reduce the charge severity.

Fraud, Forgery, and Related Charges

Many embezzlement cases involve related fraud or forgery charges. Key defense considerations include:

• Prosecutors must prove their case -- the burden is always on the state
• Police often skip handwriting analysis in white-collar cases
• Insufficient evidence documentation is common in financial investigations
• Constitutional rights violations may result in evidence exclusion
• Authorities may improperly characterize business disputes as criminal charges

How We Can Help

• Reviewing financial records and challenging the alleged amount
• Disputing intent and asserting authorization defenses
• Negotiating restitution agreements to avoid incarceration
• Working with forensic accountants to challenge prosecution evidence

If you are under investigation for or have been charged with embezzlement, contact McAleer Law for a confidential consultation. We provide honest legal opinions without judgment and will answer all of your questions. Early intervention can significantly impact the outcome.