No, if the value is under $1,000, it may be charged as a misdemeanor. However, most cases involve larger amounts and result in felony charges.
Although Arizona does not have a statute specifically labeled “embezzlement,” these cases are prosecuted under ARS §13-1802, the state’s general theft statute. Embezzlement is defined as the unauthorized use, transfer, or conversion of funds or property by someone who had legal access—but not ownership—of those assets.
Common examples of embezzlement include:
To secure a conviction, the prosecution must prove:
Embezzlement penalties in Arizona are tied directly to the value of the property or money stolen, and can range from a misdemeanor to a serious felony. In many cases, a single act of embezzlement can involve multiple counts or aggravating circumstances, leading to enhanced sentencing.
| Value of Property | Classification | Potential Prison Time |
|---|---|---|
| Under $1,000 | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months jail |
| $1,000 – $2,000 | Class 6 Felony | 6 months – 1.5 years |
| $2,000 – $3,000 | Class 5 Felony | 9 months – 2 years |
| $3,000 – $4,000 | Class 4 Felony | 1.5 – 3 years |
| $4,000 – $25,000 | Class 3 Felony | 2.5 – 8.75 years |
| $25,000+ | Class 2 Felony | 4 – 12.5 years |
Additional consequences include:
If the embezzlement was committed as part of an ongoing scheme or enterprise, it may also fall under fraudulent schemes and artifices (ARS §13-2310), which can significantly increase the penalties.
The defense strategy for an embezzlement case depends heavily on the facts, financial records, and whether law enforcement followed proper procedures during the investigation. At Feldman & Royle, we build a tailored defense based on legal and factual weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Possible defenses include:
Our team also collaborates with forensic accountants, financial experts, and investigators to analyze the prosecution’s claims and build a strong counter-narrative.
Feldman & Royle is a top-rated criminal defense law firm based in Phoenix, known for handling complex and high-stakes white-collar cases. We take a proactive and aggressive approach, aiming to resolve your case through dismissal, reduction of charges, or a favorable plea agreement whenever possible. If the trial is necessary, we are fully prepared to present a compelling defense in court.
Why choose Feldman & Royle?
Your career, your finances, and your freedom are on the line — you need a defense team that will fight back with skill and experience.
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