California Penal Code Section 503

Definition

Embezzlement under California Penal Code Section 503, is a criminal offense and it is normally filed as either a misdemeanor or felony. Embezzlement is when someone steals something that was delegated to them.

Example

A common example of Embezzlement is when someone steals money or property handed over to them by their employer.

Essentially, embezzlement is just another way of stealing. It carries the same charges and fines as theft under penal codes 488 and 487, depending on whether items are valued at over $950 (grand theft) or under $950 (petty theft).

Elements of the Crime

In order to take an Embezzlement CPC 503 case to trial, certain elements of the crime will have to be proven. This includes:

• The defendant had a relationship with the victim
• The defendant, given that they had a good rapport with the owner, was entrusted the property
• The defendant proceeded anyway to rob the victim

Punishments for CPC 503

These penalties are to be determined by a judge and he/she will make a decision based on the circumstances surrounding the case and the value of the property as mentioned earlier.

When found guilty of Embezzlement, it is usually filed as either a misdemeanor  or felony, which includes:

Embezzling items worth less than $950 is petty theft. Petty Theft is punishable by up to 6 months in prison and a one thousand dollar fine.

Embezzling items worth more than $950 is grand theft. Grand Theft is punishable by:

Misdemeanor charges for Grand Theft Embezzlement include one year in jail and a one thousand dollar fine

Felony  charges for Grand Theft Embezzlement include up to 16 months, two or three years in prison and a ten thousand dollar fine

Legal Defenses for California Penal Code 503

A good lawyer can present many legal and valid defenses for Embezzlement charges under California Penal Code 503 to prove someone’s innocence. MacGregor and Collins is based in Orange County, California, and has successfully defended  those who were falsely accused of Embezzlement. Call (949) 250-6097 to speak to a lawyer, should you be on trial for Embezzlement.