Have you been charged with embezzlement in Middletown, New York? Larkin Ingrassia Criminal Defense Attorneys can help when you contact us (845) 566-5345. We offer a free consultation with a dedicated Middletown embezzlement lawyer who can assess your case, explain your rights, and begin building a strong defense strategy.
Embezzlement cases are complex and often hinge on financial records, intent, and trust. Whether you’re under investigation or already facing charges, our legal team is here to protect your future. We’ll treat your case with the seriousness it deserves—and work to resolve it with skill, compassion, and experience on your side.
Why Choose Larkin Ingrassia Criminal Defense Attorneys To Help Me if I’ve Been Accused of Embezzlement in Middletown?
If you’re facing embezzlement or other white-collar criminal charges in Middletown, NY, Larkin Ingrassia Criminal Defense Attorneys offers the experienced legal support you need. Clients across the region turn to us for trusted advocacy and strategic defense in high-stakes cases.
Here’s what sets our firm apart:
- Our attorneys bring more than 50 years of combined experience in criminal defense and complex financial crime litigation.
- We offer free consultations so you can understand your rights and legal options before making any decisions.
- We have a proven record of success representing clients charged with offenses ranging from misdemeanors to serious felonies.
- Our team takes a client-first approach, prioritizing respect, compassion, and open communication throughout your case.
- We offer a collaborative, team-based defense strategy, drawing on diverse legal backgrounds to address every angle of your situation.
If you need help, call today to schedule your free consultation with a Middletown criminal defense attorney.
What Is Embezzlement in New York?
In New York, embezzlement is not listed as a standalone crime in the penal code. Instead, it falls under the broader category of larceny, which includes various types of theft-related offenses. Under this statute, a person commits larceny when they “wrongfully take, obtain, or withhold property from an owner” with the intent to deprive that person of it.
The law specifically includes embezzlement—as well as trick, false promise, and extortion—as recognized methods of committing larceny. Specific charges and penalties, however, will depend on the value of the stolen property, the defendant’s intent, and other aggravating factors.
Types of Embezzlement Charges
New York divides larceny into degrees based primarily on the value of the property allegedly stolen. However, grand larceny can also apply to theft involving specific types of property—such as credit cards, firearms, or public records—even if the value is below the usual monetary threshold.
The types of larceny are generally as follows:
- Petite larceny: Theft of property valued at $1,000 or less.
- Grand larceny in the fourth degree: Theft of property over $1,000.
- Grand larceny in the third degree: Theft of property valued at over $3,000.
- Grand larceny in the second degree: Theft of property valued at over $50,000.
- Grand larceny in the first degree: Theft of property valued at over $1 million.
Regardless of the degree, a larceny conviction can have serious legal and personal repercussions.
What Are the Penalties for Embezzlement in Middletown, New York?
Embezzlement charges in New York are prosecuted under the state’s larceny laws. The penalties vary widely depending on the degree of larceny involved, which is generally determined by the value of the property allegedly stolen.
Penalties are generally as follows:
- Petite larceny (class A misdemeanor): Up to 364 days imprisonment, up to $1,000 in fines.
- Grand larceny in the fourth degree (class E felony): Up to 4 years imprisonment, up to $5,000 in fines, or double the amount of the offender’s gain from the crime.
- Grand larceny in the third degree (class D felony): Up to 7 years imprisonment, up to $5,000 in fines, or double the amount of the offender’s gain from the crime.
- Grand larceny in the second degree (class C felony): Up to 15 years imprisonment, up to $5,000 in fines, or double the amount of the offender’s gain from the crime.
- Grand larceny in the first degree (class B felony): Up to 25 years imprisonment, up to $5,000 in fines, or double the amount of the offender’s gain from the crime.
Because the potential fines may exceed the statutory maximum if the court finds you profited significantly from the alleged embezzlement, it’s critical to have an attorney who understands how to challenge both the charges and the financial assumptions underlying them.
What Defenses Can Be Raised if I’m Accused of Embezzlement?
Being charged with embezzlement doesn’t automatically mean a conviction. Several legal defenses may be available based on the facts of your case:
- Lack of intent: Embezzlement is an intentional act. If the prosecution can’t prove you meant to deprive someone of their property, the case may not hold.
- Lawful ownership or use: If you had permission to access or use the funds, your actions may not rise to the level of criminal conduct.
- Accounting error or mistake: In complex financial settings, mistakes can happen. Miscommunications, clerical errors, or poor record-keeping do not always indicate criminal intent.
- Insufficient evidence: The prosecution must prove each element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. Weak documentation or unclear financial records may be used in your favor.
- Duress or coercion: If you were pressured or threatened into misusing funds, that can form the basis for a valid legal defense.
- False accusation or identity confusion: In workplaces where multiple people handle money or accounts, it’s not uncommon for blame to be wrongly assigned.
The right defense will depend on a detailed review of your case, financial documents, and the circumstances surrounding the allegations.
How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help if You’ve Been Accused of Embezzlement
Embezzlement cases are often complex, involving detailed financial records, employment policies, and intent-based legal standards. A skilled criminal defense attorney can make all the difference by:
- Investigating the allegations and gathering critical evidence
- Identifying weaknesses or inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case
- Negotiating with prosecutors for charge reductions or dismissal
- Arguing for reduced sentencing or alternative penalties where appropriate
- Representing you confidently in court if the case goes to trial
If you’re facing embezzlement charges in Middletown or anywhere in New York, don’t wait. The sooner you speak with an attorney, the more options you’ll have to protect your rights and your future
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation With Our Embezzlement Defense Lawyer
Allegations of embezzlement in Middletown, NY, can put your freedom, reputation, and future at risk. At Larkin Ingrassia Criminal Defense Attorneys, we’re here to offer the steady, experienced guidance you need to face these charges with confidence.
With the help of a knowledgeable legal team, you can challenge the accusations and work toward the best possible outcome. Call today to schedule your free consultation with a Middletown embezzlement lawyer.