Tacoma, WA Embezzlement Defense Attorney

Aggressive Tacoma Embezzlement Lawyer Ready To Defend Your Reputation And Freedom

If you’re under investigation or facing embezzlement charges in Washington, your future is at risk. These accusations can lead to felony convictions, prison time and lasting damage to your name. At The Law Office of Michael Austin Stewart Criminal Defense Lawyer, we don’t wait for the system to act. We step in immediately to protect your rights and challenge the case against you.

Penalties For Being Convicted Of Embezzlement In Washington

Embezzlement is charged under Washington’s general theft laws. Most cases involve alleged misappropriation of money or property entrusted to someone through a position of trust. The severity of the charge depends on the value of the assets and the nature of the relationship.

If convicted, you may face the following penalties:

  • Felony classification: Theft of more than $750 is considered a felony under state law.
  • Lengthy prison sentences: Class B felonies carry up to 10 years in prison.
  • High fines: Courts may impose fines up to $20,000.
  • Restitution orders: You may be required to repay the full amount allegedly taken.
  • Permanent career harm: A conviction can end careers and block professional opportunities.

Prosecutors in Pierce County take these cases seriously, especially when they involve public funds or fiduciary duties. But a charge is not the same as a conviction. That’s where an experienced Tacoma embezzlement attorney can make the difference.

What Are Some Common Defenses To Embezzlement Charges?

Not every accusation leads to a conviction. Many cases fall apart once the facts are carefully examined. As experienced fraud defense attorneys in Tacoma, we evaluate every angle to uncover the truth and weaken the government’s case.

Defenses that may apply include:

  • No criminal intent: Mistakes, disorganization or bad accounting are not crimes.
  • Authorized use: If you had the right to manage or use the funds, that’s not theft.
  • Insufficient proof: The state must prove every detail beyond a reasonable doubt.
  • False reports: Accusers may exaggerate, misinterpret or fabricate allegations.
  • Rights violations: If your rights were violated, key evidence may be excluded.

We dig into the evidence, consult financial experts when needed and build strong defenses. When your reputation is on the line, we don’t back down. We fight for your future in and out of court.

Trusted Local Defense Across Tacoma And Pierce County

At The Law Office of Michael Austin Stewart Criminal Defense Lawyer, we represent individuals throughout Tacoma and Pierce County who are facing serious embezzlement accusations. We’ve earned a reputation for handling complex and high-stakes cases with urgency, skill and resolve.

We defend clients in cases involving:

  • Alleged employee theft or misappropriation
  • Public or nonprofit funds
  • Large-scale financial fraud
  • Investigations involving plea offers or media attention
  • Repeat allegations or career-related consequences

We move quickly, speak directly and stand firm in court. Every case matters, and every client deserves a tough defense.

Charged With Embezzlement In Tacoma? Talk To Us.

Call The Law Office of Michael Austin Stewart Criminal Defense Lawyer at 123-456-7890 or send us an email to speak directly with a Tacoma embezzlement lawyer. It’s best to consult with an attorney early to protect your rights and start building your defense.

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The first few hours after an arrest can be incredibly stressful, but they may also be incredibly important for your case. Anything you say during questioning could be used against you in court, even if police appear sympathetic to your circumstances. During this time, protecting your rights is absolutely critical. If you have been accused of a crime, do not hesitate to get in contact with a skilled criminal defense lawyer who can advise you on how to respond.

Attorney Michael Austin Stewart has decades of experience representing clients throughout Pierce County and the South Puget Sound in serious felony cases. When you work with our firm, your case will receive close attention from a seasoned trial attorney who will explore all of your options to fight the charges in court.

Proven experience representing clients in high-stakes criminal matters

When your freedom, reputation, or career is at risk, you need a respected and aggressive criminal defense attorney on your side. Attorney Michael Austin Stewart's successful case results speak to his diligence and willingness to fully investigate a charge. Across his 30-year career, he has obtained favorable outcomes for many clients, routinely securing sentencing terms well below the government's request as well as dismissals and not guilty verdicts.

Past case results are not a guarantee of future outcomes. Instead, they show the lengths we are willing to go to protect our clients. You only get one chance to protect your freedom and your name in a criminal case, so you should not settle for anything less than the best when looking for the right attorney.

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Case Results

Our firm has a demonstrated history of successes in criminal defense cases, frequently securing ideal outcomes through our fierce advocacy.

Felony DUI Dismissed

Achieved after court found no probable cause for the traffic stop

Felony Domestic Charges Dismissed

Secured after further investigation revealed death threats were falsified

Firearm Charge Dismissed

Achieved after it was revealed that the officer conducted a warrantless search without reasonable suspicion

Not Guilty Verdict in Rape Case

Defendant was completely exonerated after extensive cross-examination and arguments from defense

Reputable criminal defense trusted by local communities

Attorney Michael Austin Stewart has a reputation for being extremely tough in the courtroom while being approachable and personable with his clients. His main goal is to set you at ease while providing aggressive representation in court, taking a stand to protect your rights. We are available 24/7, as we remain in close communication with our clients in every case.

Our firm has also been recognized with many awards for our excellent client service and strong representation. Some of these accolades include placement in the Top 100 Trial Lawyers by The National Trial Lawyers, recognition as a Super Lawyer, and a 10.0 Avvo rating. We have also earned many 5-star reviews from clients we have personally helped through difficult situations, highlighting the trust we have built up across Tacoma and the wider community.

Strong counsel when you need it most

You can trust our firm to handle your case with the tact and care that it deserves. We know how to manage the media in cases that garner public attention—having taken on cases featured in CBS, The Washington Times, The Seattle Times, and other outlets—working to protect our clients' privacy as we build a careful defense. We also know how to navigate communication with police and prosecutors to minimize any possible risks.

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The Law Office of Michael Austin Stewart Criminal Defense Lawyer

Focused on
the Best Case
Outcome

Whether you are facing property crime charges, allegations of violent crime, or sex crime accusations, our firm will seek the best possible outcome to your case. To accomplish this, we carry out in-depth investigations to uncover all of the relevant facts, allowing us to build a nuanced argument to present to the court. Attorney Michael Austin Stewart is a trial-tested criminal defense lawyer with the skills and legal knowledge to present a strong case on your behalf.

If you have any questions about how we can help with your situation, do not hesitate to reach out. Seeking early legal counsel is critical for making sure that you are fairly represented during the criminal proceedings.

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Verdict Spotlight

Felony DUI Dismissed

Achieved after court found no probable cause for the traffic stop

Felony Domestic Charges Dismissed

Secured after further investigation revealed death threats were falsified

Firearm Charge Dismissed

Achieved after it was revealed that the officer conducted a warrantless search without reasonable suspicion

Not Guilty Verdict in Rape Case

Defendant was completely exonerated after extensive cross-examination and arguments from defense

Award-Winning

Our firm has been honored with many awards for our exceptional criminal defense.

30+ Years of Experience

Attorney Michal Austin Stewart has decades of courtroom experience defending clients accused of felony crimes.

Free Consultations

We offer free consultations to any prospective clients with questions about a pending criminal case or investigation.