Charges rejected
Felony domestic violence arrest. The prosecutor declined to file charges at the arraignment.
2022Home / Fraud & Embezzlement Defense · Los Angeles
Fraud and embezzlement defense lawyer in Los Angeles.
White-collar accusations often begin long before an arrest: with an internal investigation, a demand letter or a call from a detective. Getting a lawyer involved at that stage can change the outcome.
Cases we handle
- Embezzlement by employees, partners or managers.
- Fraud and false pretenses.
- Identity theft.
- Selling counterfeit goods.
- Real estate and loan-related fraud allegations.
Paper cases need paper defenses
Fraud cases are built on records: bank statements, emails, accounting entries and contracts. We review the records ourselves, often with a forensic accountant, to test the prosecution's theory of intent and loss. Many cases that look like crimes are business disputes or accounting errors.
Restitution and resolution
The amount of the alleged loss drives both charges and sentencing. Early, documented restitution discussions can lead to reduced charges, diversion or a civil resolution instead of a criminal one.
Free 20-minute consultation: (310) 415-9499.
Case results
Recent results.
Selected outcomes from the firm’s closed matters.
Dismissed
Firearm discharge case dismissed after the client completed diversion. No conviction.
2023Dismissed
Criminal case against a commercial property owner and its company over a cannabis tenant. Dismissed as to both.
2022Dismissed
Property owner charged with building-permit violations tied to a tenant's dispensary. Case dismissed.
2025Funds returned
Cash seized in a raid aimed at a neighbor was returned to the client, who was never charged.
2023Results depend on the facts of each case. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Client details are withheld for privacy.
Common questions
Questions clients ask first.
General information about California law, not legal advice for your situation.
Should I talk to investigators if I have not been charged?
Not without a lawyer. Statements made during an investigation are often the most important evidence in the case.
Is embezzlement a felony in California?
It is punished like theft: generally a misdemeanor at $950 or less, and potentially a felony above that.
Client reviews
5.0 stars on Google from 46 clients.
Very grateful to Mr. Manavi for representing me against a insurance company that was trying to deny me equitable payment in the repair of my childhood home after a negligent plumber. Mr. Manavi advocated fiercely, expertly, and strategically to secure a favorable outcome.
Saman had great attention to detail when it came to my case. … Not only was he accurate in the timeline I provided for my case but he was very clear in communicating his strategy and made me feel very comfortable with my case.
He was always available when I needed him and kept me informed throughout the entire process. He explained things clearly, but was also very understanding and easy to talk to, which made a stressful situation feel a lot more manageable.
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Contact
Get answers in one phone call.
The first 20 minutes are free. Have any documents handy, such as a contract, lease, citation or police report, and a short description of what you hope to achieve.
Email
saman@manavilaw.com
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