Mistakes, miscommunications, and poor bookkeeping become embezzlement charges. We analyze records and present legitimate explanations. Save your professional future—call today.
Being charged with embezzlement—legally referred to in Georgia as theft by conversion—is a serious matter. It means you’re being accused of misusing funds or property that were legally entrusted to you. These charges don’t just threaten your freedom—they can damage your reputation, career, and future long before you ever set foot in court.
At J. Ryan Brown Law, we understand what’s at stake. Whether you’re an employee, contractor, business partner, or someone in a position of trust, we know how to push back on the prosecution’s assumptions and protect your side of the story. If you’re facing embezzlement charges in Newnan or Coweta County, you don’t need judgment—you need an experienced criminal defense lawyer who’s ready to fight for you.
While the word “embezzlement” is commonly used, Georgia law does not use that term directly. Instead, cases of embezzlement are prosecuted under O.C.G.A. § 16-8-4, which defines theft by conversion.
According to Georgia Code § 16-8-4 (2024), theft by conversion occurs when:
In other words, embezzlement isn’t taking property by force—it’s about misusing what was legally entrusted to you.
This could include:
Theft by conversion can arise in many everyday business and employment settings. Common scenarios include:
Even if the original transfer of funds or property was lawful, using it for a purpose not authorized by the agreement can give rise to criminal charges.
The penalties for theft by conversion—Georgia’s version of embezzlement—depend largely on the value of the property or money involved.
Less than $1,500: Usually charged as a misdemeanor, punishable by:
$1,500 to $5,000: Felony, punishable by:
$5,000 to $25,000: Felony, punishable by:
More than $25,000: Felony, punishable by:
Additional penalties may apply if the victim was a person over the age of 65 or if the alleged embezzlement involved government funds or public property.
Georgia law also includes several presumptions that can strengthen the state’s case, including:
These presumptions shift the burden to the defense—making it even more critical to have a skilled attorney challenge the accusations.
In addition to jail time and fines, a conviction for theft by conversion can lead to:
At J. Ryan Brown Law, we don’t take shortcuts when your future is on the line. We dig deep into the evidence, challenge assumptions, and focus on the weaknesses in the state’s case. Some common defense strategies include:
Embezzlement is a specific intent crime. The state must prove that you intended to violate the agreement and knowingly used the property or funds for personal gain.
We often show:
Many embezzlement cases stem from ambiguous contracts or vague verbal agreements. If the terms of the agreement were unclear—or if both sides understood them differently—criminal charges may not be appropriate.
If the prosecution can’t prove exactly how the funds were misused or when the alleged conversion occurred, we challenge the factual basis for the charges.
If law enforcement seized bank records, devices, or other evidence without a proper warrant or probable cause, we may move to suppress that evidence.
If you are under investigation, have been contacted by law enforcement, or have already been charged with theft by conversion:
Our Newnan-based law firm represents individuals and professionals throughout West Georgia who have been accused of embezzlement, theft by conversion, or other white-collar crimes. This includes clients in:
Whether you’re facing charges for the first time or you’ve been caught up in a complicated business dispute, we treat your case with the attention and strategy it deserves.
Here’s what makes us different:
We understand the damage these charges can do to your name, your business, and your peace of mind. Let us help you push back with a strong defense, clear guidance, and honest answers every step of the way.
The sooner you call, the more options we have. If you’re facing theft by conversion charges in Newnan or anywhere in Coweta County, don’t wait. Your future deserves more than guesswork or delay.
Contact J. Ryan Brown Law today for a confidential consultation. We’ll help you understand your rights, assess your legal options, and build a defense that works.
