Embezzlement Lawyer

Defending Clients Across Wyoming and South Dakota

Embezzlement charges are serious, and in Wyoming, even a first-time offense can result in felony charges, prison time, and life-changing damage to your reputation, career, and future. 

If you’ve been accused of taking funds from an employer, business, or organization, the time to act is now.

At Just Criminal Law, we defend people facing high-stakes financial crime charges, including felony embezzlement. Whether you're under investigation or have already been charged, our team can help you navigate the legal process, protect your rights, and fight for the best possible outcome.

Reasons why clients choose us:

• Former prosecutors with experience handling complex white-collar cases
• Strategic defense planning based on a full review of the evidence
• Thorough, client-centered representation throughout the case
• Flat-fee pricing for transparency and peace of mind
• Serving clients across Wyoming and South Dakota

Call (307) 300-2240 or contact us online to schedule a personalized case review.

Trusted When Everything Is on the Line

When you're facing charges that threaten your reputation and livelihood, choosing the right defense team matters. At Just Criminal Law, we take that responsibility seriously, and it shows in the feedback we receive from clients we've helped through some of the most difficult moments of their lives:

"From the first day I called this law firm it was different from others."

“I was able to speak directly with an attorney. He answered all my questions and told me about his team I felt confident and comfortable. I hired them and they were able to get my case dismissed in about 2 months!” – Former Client

“Working with Just Criminal Law has been as enjoyable as possible throughout a stressful situation.”

“With knowledgeable, honest, and professional paralegals like Lisa, and litigators like Josh, I was confident that my legal issues were being addressed with my best interests being paramount.” – Former Client

“I would like to give them 10 stars.”

“It was money well spent, Josh Taylor did his job the whole process from start to finish deserves a 10 start would not think twice about using their professional services TOP NOTCH.” – Former Client

Meet Your Defense Team: Christina L. Williams & Josh Taylor

• Christina L. Williams – A former prosecutor with more than 15 years of experience, Christina understands the financial crime units that handle embezzlement investigations and how to challenge their assumptions. She helps clients take control of their cases early and works to minimize exposure to criminal penalties, reputational harm, and long-term consequences.
• Josh Taylor – Josh has handled complex fraud and embezzlement cases at both the state and federal levels, including during his time as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney. He’s known for his attention to detail, command of the evidence, and ability to break down complicated cases in ways judges and juries understand. His goal is always to protect his client’s future, not just beat the charge.

Learn more about our team.

What Is Embezzlement Under Wyoming Law?

Embezzlement is a form of theft but unlike robbery or burglary, it involves the unlawful taking of property that was entrusted to you. Under Wyoming Statute § 6-3-402, embezzlement falls under the broader offense of larceny by bailee, which applies when someone takes property that was lawfully in their possession but never legally theirs to keep.

Examples include:

• Taking money from a cash register or business account
• Misusing funds from a company credit card or bank account
• Falsifying payroll, invoices, or reimbursement requests
• Pocketing deposits, fees, or payments intended for a business

These cases often involve employers, but can also include non-profits, public agencies, partnerships, or anyone who placed financial trust in you.

Felony or Misdemeanor? Understanding the Penalties

In Wyoming, the severity of an embezzlement charge depends on the value of the property taken:

Less than $1,000:

• Misdemeanor
• Up to 6 months in jail
• Fines up to $750
• Restitution to the alleged victim

$1,000 or more:

• Felony
• Up to 10 years in prison
• Fines up to $10,000
• Restitution and potential civil liability

Additional charges, such as forgery, computer crimes, or breach of fiduciary duty, may also be filed depending on how the funds were taken. In some cases, federal prosecutors may get involved, especially if the alleged offense involved wire fraud, mail fraud, or financial institutions.

South Dakota classifies embezzlement separately, under SDCL §§ 22-30A-10 to 22-30A-17, and penalties are similarly based on the amount taken, with felony charges applying to amounts over $1,000 and enhancements available for public officials or multiple offenses.

How We Defend Against Embezzlement Charges

Financial crime cases often come down to paperwork, internal audits, and assumptions –  not clear-cut evidence. We begin every embezzlement defense with a detailed review of:

• How the alleged theft was discovered and reported
• What financial records were reviewed — and by whom
• Whether policies or expectations were clearly communicated
• The role of other individuals with access to the same funds
• Whether there was actual intent to steal or a misunderstanding

We may consult forensic accountants, challenge faulty audits, and seek early resolution before charges are even filed. In cases where restitution is a factor, we help clients weigh their options carefully, including negotiated pleas, diversion programs, or alternatives to incarceration.

The Long-Term Impact of an Embezzlement Conviction

Beyond jail or prison time, embezzlement charges carry lasting consequences:

• Loss of employment, especially in finance, education, or government
• Difficulty securing future jobs, especially those requiring background checks
• Damage to reputation in your community and professional circles
• Restitution orders that can remain in place for years
• Immigration consequences for non-citizens

These serious repercussions are why a strategic, early defense is essential and why working with experienced counsel is critical.

Call a Wyoming Embezzlement Defense Lawyer Today

If you’ve been accused of embezzlement or believe you’re under investigation, don’t wait for charges to escalate. Our team is here to protect your rights, explain your options, and fight for a resolution that protects your future.

Call (307) 300-2240 or contact us online for a confidential consultation. We serve clients across Wyoming and South Dakota and can get to work immediately.