Los Angeles Embezzlement by a Public Official Defense Lawyers

Are You in Need of an Embezzlement by a Public Official Defense Lawyer?

Few allegations can damage a person's reputation and career more quickly than accusations of embezzlement by a public official. These cases can attract media attention, public scrutiny, and intense pressure from law enforcement agencies seeking to make an example of the accused.

At Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, our Los Angeles embezzlement defense lawyers understand the complex legal and financial issues involved in public corruption cases. Our legal team includes former prosecutors, nationally recognized trial attorneys, and experienced criminal defense lawyers who know how to challenge government investigations and protect the rights of individuals accused of serious financial crimes.

You should contact a Los Angeles embezzlement defense lawyer if:

• You have learned that you are the subject of a government investigation.
• Law enforcement has requested an interview.
• Auditors have identified alleged financial irregularities.
• Search warrants have been executed involving your office or residence.
• You have been accused of misusing public funds.
• Criminal charges have already been filed.

Why Choose Us Over Other Embezzlement Defense Attorneys in Los Angeles?

The earlier an experienced defense attorney becomes involved, the greater the opportunity to protect your rights and begin building a defense strategy. Many public corruption investigations begin long before formal charges are filed. Investigators may review financial records, examine contracts, conduct audits, interview witnesses, and analyze years of transactions before making an arrest.

Allegations are not proof of guilt! Financial discrepancies, accounting errors, misunderstandings regarding authorized expenditures, and politically motivated accusations can all lead to embezzlement investigations. Prosecutors must prove every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt, including criminal intent.

When your freedom, reputation, and career are on the line, experience matters. Here’s what sets our law firm apart.

• Firm founded in 1994 with decades of criminal defense experience and a proven record of success.
• Former Deputy District Attorneys and former federal prosecutors on our legal team with insider knowledge of government investigations.
• AV-rated by Martindale-Hubbell for the highest ethical standards and legal ability.
• Multiple attorneys recognized by Super Lawyers based on peer reviews and independent research.
• Mark J. Werksman is a former Deputy District Attorney and former Assistant United States Attorney with extensive courtroom experience.
• Alan Jackson has tried more than 85 jury trials with a career success rate of 96%, demonstrating exceptional courtroom experience and proven results.
• Kelly Quinn is a certified specialist in writs and appeals who provides valuable appellate insight.
• Our attorneys have represented celebrities, professionals, public figures, and individuals facing high-profile criminal allegations.
• Clients receive the support of an entire defense team, not just a single attorney.

Don't Face Government Investigators Alone

Public corruption investigations are complex and difficult. Call (213) 688-0460 to learn more today.

What Is Embezzlement by a Public Official?

Embezzlement occurs when a person entrusted with money, property, or assets fraudulently converts those assets for personal use. When the accused is a public official, government employee, or public servant entrusted with taxpayer funds or government property, prosecutors may pursue charges under California laws governing embezzlement and public corruption.

To secure a conviction, prosecutors generally must prove the following:

• The defendant was a public official or person entrusted with public property.
• The defendant had lawful access to the funds or property.
• The defendant fraudulently appropriated the property for personal use or benefit.
• The defendant acted intentionally.

Common allegations may involve misuse of public funds, unauthorized government expenditures, improper reimbursement claims, payroll fraud, diversion of government resources, misappropriation of grant funds, or abuse of public contracts. These cases frequently center on allegations that a public official used government money, property, or authority for personal benefit or an unauthorized purpose.

Legal Penalties for Embezzlement

The penalties for embezzlement by a public official can be severe and may include both criminal and professional consequences. Depending on the amount of money involved and the circumstances of the alleged offense, a conviction may result in:

• Up to three years in county jail or state prison
• Stiff fines
• Payment of restitution
• Formal probation
• A permanent felony criminal record

The Personal Consequences of a Felony Conviction

A felony conviction can have lasting consequences that extend far beyond fines, probation, or incarceration. In addition to criminal penalties, individuals may face serious personal and professional setbacks that affect nearly every aspect of their lives.

Potential consequences of a felony conviction include:

• Loss of professional licenses, potentially impacting careers in healthcare, law, education, finance, real estate, and other licensed professions.
• Loss of gun rights, including restrictions on owning, possessing, or purchasing firearms under California and federal law.
• Damage to your reputation, which can affect personal relationships, community standing, and future opportunities.
• Damage to your military career, including the loss of security clearances, promotion opportunities, military benefits, or continued service eligibility.
• Damage to your immigration status, potentially resulting in visa denials, deportation proceedings, inadmissibility, or other adverse immigration consequences.

Accused of Misusing Public Funds?

The earlier you involve an attorney, the more opportunities there may be to protect your rights and challenge the allegations. Call (213) 688-0460 today for a free case evaluation.

How a Lawyer Can Help

Public corruption investigations often involve multiple agencies, forensic accountants, auditors, and prosecutors working together to build a case.

An experienced defense attorney can provide critical assistance by:

• Protecting Your Rights. Your lawyer can communicate with investigators on your behalf and help prevent statements that could later be used against you.
• Conducting an Independent Investigation. Defense counsel can review financial records, interview witnesses, and uncover evidence supporting your defense.
• Challenging Financial Evidence. Many embezzlement cases depend on accounting records, audits, and financial analyses that may contain errors or inaccurate assumptions.
• Working With Experts. Financial experts, forensic accountants, and auditors can help analyze complex transactions and challenge the prosecution's conclusions.
• Negotiating With Prosecutors. In some cases, early intervention may help secure reduced charges, alternative resolutions, or even prevent criminal charges from being filed.
• Representing You at Trial. If your case proceeds to trial, experienced courtroom advocacy is essential. Your attorney can challenge the government's evidence and present a compelling defense to the jury.

Effective Legal Defense Strategies

Every embezzlement case presents unique facts and circumstances. At Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, we carefully evaluate the evidence to determine the most effective defense strategy.

You Are Not a Public Official

The prosecution must prove that the defendant qualifies as a public official, government employee, or person entrusted with public property under the applicable law. If this element cannot be established, the prosecution's theory may be significantly weakened.

You Did Not Commit Fraud

The prosecution must prove fraudulent intent is to secure conviction for embezzlement. But many financial irregularities result from simple mistakes that don’t rise to the level of a crime. This may include:

• Accounting errors
• Administrative mistakes
• Miscommunications
• Clerical oversights
• Misunderstandings regarding authorization

Witnesses Against You Are Unreliable

The prosecution may rely heavily on testimony from co-workers, auditors, government employees, political opponents, and investigators to support its allegations. But these witnesses may be mistaken, biased, motivated by personal interests, or have incomplete information about the events in question.

You Were Acting Under Duress

In certain situations, a defendant may have acted because of threats, coercion, or pressure from others. If unlawful conduct occurred because of duress, criminal liability may be reduced or eliminated depending on the circumstances.

There's a Reasonable Explanation for What Happened

Financial transactions often appear suspicious when viewed without proper context. A thorough investigation may reveal that the alleged misconduct resulted from authorized expenditures, proper accounting procedures, approved budgetary decisions, or administrative misunderstandings.

Insufficient Evidence

The burden of proof rests entirely with the prosecution. Many embezzlement cases are built on financial records, audit reports, accounting analyses, emails and other communications, and witness testimony. If the evidence is incomplete, inconsistent, or unreliable, prosecutors may be unable to meet their burden.

Lack of Criminal Intent (Mens Rea)

Intent is one of the most important elements of an embezzlement charge. The prosecution must prove that the defendant intentionally and knowingly converted public funds or property for an improper purpose. Good-faith mistakes, misunderstandings, or administrative errors do not necessarily constitute criminal conduct.

False Accusations

Public officials may become targets of false allegations due to:

• Political rivalries
• Workplace disputes
• Personal conflicts
• Media attention
• Retaliation by others

Our defense team thoroughly investigates the motivations behind accusations and uncovers evidence supporting our client's innocence.

Your Constitutional Rights Were Violated

Government investigators must comply with constitutional protections during criminal investigations. When constitutional violations occur, critical evidence may be excluded from trial.

Examples of constitutional violations include:

• Unlawful interrogations
• Improper search warrants
• Violations of the right to counsel
• Miranda violations

Illegal Search

Financial crime investigations frequently involve searches of offices, homes, computers, electronic devices, and financial records to gather evidence. If law enforcement conducted an unlawful search or exceeded the scope of a warrant, evidence obtained during the search may be subject to suppression. Our attorneys carefully examine every aspect of the investigation to identify constitutional violations and challenge improperly obtained evidence.

What Clients Are Saying About Us

I would trust them with my life-JoAnn G. (5-Star Yelp Review)

They're amazing with integrity and accessibility. They truly saved the life of someone I know. I recommend them beyond all. I would trust them with my life.

I cannot thank him enough- Allen T. (5-Star Yelp Review)

Mark Werksman is a professional, educated, and articulate lawyer. He goes above and beyond to successfully represent his clients. He is full of wit and quick on his feet. Before I came to Mark, my mind was full of doubt with previous lawyers. One of them even told me there was nothing they could do to help me. Mark managed to settle my case beyond my expectations. He kept me updated with constant positive follow-ups. He stays on top of things and he strives to achieve nothing but the best results for all of his clients. I felt this every time I spoke with him. Thanks to Mark, the stress and worries are out the window. I cannot thank him enough. There are many lawyers out there. However, rationale, quick thinking, and intellect are rare. Mark meets the criteria for a top-notch lawyer.

Case Results

Embezzlement of Campaign Funds – Not Guilty on All Counts

Mark Werksman successfully represented a longtime Los Angeles lobbyist, a former Los Angeles City Council aide, and the aide's wife in a high-profile public corruption case involving allegations that they helped an elected official divert thousands of dollars in public funds for personal benefit. Following a lengthy and hard-fought trial, the jury deliberated for more than two days before returning not guilty verdicts on all counts for Mark’s client.

Speak With an Experienced Embezzlement by a Public Official Defense Lawyer in Los Angeles

At Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP, our experienced criminal defense attorneys aggressively represent public officials, government employees, and professionals facing serious embezzlement allegations throughout Los Angeles and California. We understand the challenges these cases present, and we are committed to protecting our clients at every stage of the process.

If you are under investigation or have been charged with embezzlement by a public official, contact call (213) 688-0460 to find out how we can help. We offer a free case evaluation.

Embezzlement allegations can jeopardize your career, reputation, and freedom. Contact a Los Angeles white-collar crime lawyer at Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP today at (213) 688-0460 for a free and confidential consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Embezzlement by a Public Official Charges in California

What is embezzlement by a public official?

Embezzlement by a public official involves allegations that a government employee, elected official, or other public servant fraudulently used or appropriated public funds, property, or resources for personal benefit. Prosecutors must prove several elements, including fraudulent intent, to secure a conviction.

Can I be charged if the financial discrepancy was an accounting error?

Yes. Investigators may initially suspect embezzlement when audits uncover irregularities. However, accounting mistakes, clerical errors, recordkeeping issues, and misunderstandings regarding authorized expenditures are not the same as criminal embezzlement and may provide a defense to the allegations.

What penalties can result from an embezzlement conviction?

Depending on the amount involved and the facts of the case, penalties may include jail or prison time, fines, restitution, probation, and a permanent criminal record. Additional consequences can include the loss of public employment, professional licensing issues, and damage to a person's reputation.

Can I be prosecuted if I never personally received any money?

Possibly. Prosecutors may argue that a defendant benefited indirectly from the alleged misuse of public funds or property. However, they must still prove that the defendant intentionally and fraudulently appropriated public assets.

What if I had authorization to make the expenditure?

If the transaction was approved, permitted under applicable policies, or reasonably believed to be authorized, the prosecution may have difficulty proving criminal conduct.

How do prosecutors prove embezzlement?

Prosecutors often rely on financial records, audit reports, emails, text messages, bank statements, contracts, and witness testimony. They may also use forensic accountants and financial experts to analyze transactions and present evidence at trial.

Can witness testimony be challenged in an embezzlement case?

Yes. Witnesses may have incomplete information, faulty memories, personal biases, or motives to shift blame. An experienced defense attorney can investigate witness credibility and expose inconsistencies in their testimony.

What should I do if investigators want to interview me?

You should consult a Los Angeles criminal defense attorney before speaking with investigators. Statements made during an interview can be misunderstood or used against you later, even if you believe you have done nothing wrong.

Can evidence be excluded if law enforcement violated my rights?

Yes. If investigators conducted an illegal search, obtained evidence through an invalid warrant, violated your Miranda rights, or otherwise infringed upon your constitutional protections, a court may suppress the evidence and limit what prosecutors can use against you.

Why should I hire Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP for an embezzlement defense case?

Our legal team includes former prosecutors, experienced trial attorneys, and appellate specialists who understand how public corruption and financial crime cases are investigated and prosecuted. We aggressively challenge the government's evidence, protect our clients' rights, and pursue the best possible outcome in every case.

Meet Our Embezzlement by a Public Official Defense Attorneys

Mark J. Werksman

Mark J. Werksman is the founding partner of Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP and a highly respected criminal defense attorney with nearly four decades of experience defending clients in state and federal courts. Since 1986, he has dedicated his practice exclusively to criminal law, representing individuals facing some of the most serious and complex criminal allegations, including white-collar crimes, fraud, embezzlement, federal investigations, murder, robbery, sex crimes, and other major felony offenses.

Before entering private practice, Mark served as both a Deputy District Attorney and an Assistant United States Attorney. His experience on both sides of the criminal justice system provides him with unique insight into how prosecutors investigate cases, evaluate evidence, and develop trial strategies. He uses that knowledge to identify weaknesses in the government's case and build effective defenses tailored to each client's circumstances.

Throughout his career, Mark has represented business owners, executives, professionals, public figures, government employees, and individuals facing high-profile criminal investigations. He is known for his strategic thinking, meticulous preparation, and powerful advocacy both inside and outside the courtroom.

Alan Jackson

Alan Jackson is a partner at Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP and one of California's most accomplished criminal defense trial attorneys. With decades of courtroom experience and a reputation for handling high-profile, high-stakes criminal cases, Alan has become a trusted advocate for individuals facing serious state and federal charges.

Before joining the defense bar, Alan served as a prosecutor with the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office, where he rose to the position of Assistant Head Deputy of the Major Crimes Division. In that role, he supervised and prosecuted some of the most serious criminal cases in the county, including homicide and other major felony matters.

Alan has represented executives, professionals, celebrities, public figures, and individuals facing complex criminal investigations and prosecutions. He is particularly known for handling cases involving murder, white-collar crime, fraud, public corruption, and other serious felony offenses where a client's freedom and reputation are on the line. As lead counsel in the nationally followed Karen Read murder case, he helped secure an acquittal on murder and manslaughter charges after exposing weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence and challenging the integrity of the investigation.

Kelly Quinn

Kelly Quinn is a partner at Werksman Jackson & Quinn LLP and a skilled criminal defense attorney known for her expertise in writs, appeals, and complex post-conviction matters. As a certified specialist in writs and appeals, she brings a sophisticated legal perspective to serious criminal cases, helping clients challenge legal errors, preserve critical issues, and pursue relief when trial court rulings or convictions are flawed.

Kelly works closely with the firm’s trial attorneys to strengthen defense strategies from the earliest stages of a case. Her appellate background allows her to identify constitutional issues, procedural errors, evidentiary problems, and other legal concerns that may affect the outcome of criminal proceedings.

Kelly has handled complex appeals, writ petitions, and post-conviction challenges involving serious state and federal criminal matters. Known for her meticulous preparation, persuasive writing, and clear legal analysis, Kelly provides clients with disciplined advocacy in cases where precision and strategy are essential.