Embezzlement Lawyer Virginia, VA
You’ve been accused of misappropriating funds from your workplace, a business partner, or an organization. Perhaps a financial audit uncovered unexplained discrepancies, or a former colleague reported a concern. Now you face an embezzlement charge in Virginia—a serious criminal allegation that can expose you to jail time, a permanent record, and collateral consequences for your professional licenses and reputation. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases actively, and a conviction can follow you for the rest of your life. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel provide experienced defense representation for individuals facing embezzlement charges in Virginia. Reach our firm at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Embezzlement Means in Virginia
Under Virginia law, embezzlement is the wrongful and fraudulent use or conversion of money or property that a person has received for another. The offense is prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-111 as larceny, which means the penalties depend on the value of the property involved. A case is heard in the Virginia General District Court or Circuit Court, depending on whether the charge is a misdemeanor or felony. The statute does not require a specific dollar threshold for embezzlement itself; instead, the punishment follows the general larceny framework. If the value of the property taken is less than $1,000, the charge is petit larceny and is a Class 1 misdemeanor. If the value is $1,000 or more, or the property is a firearm regardless of value, the offense becomes grand larceny—a felony. This grading structure means the stakes rise sharply as the dollar amount increases.
Virginia courts handle embezzlement allegations through the established criminal process. The Commonwealth’s Attorney does not plea-bargain directly with the judge, but discussions between the prosecution and defense counsel are a routine part of Virginia criminal practice under Rule 3A:8 of the Rules of the Supreme Court of Virginia. In many cases, the prosecution may agree to amend charges or resolve the matter through a disposition that avoids a trial. An experienced defense attorney can evaluate the state’s evidence and work toward a resolution that protects your future.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Embezzlement Cases
When you engage Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel begin with a thorough review of the alleged conduct. Embezzlement cases frequently involve detailed financial records, complicated employer‑employee relationships, and nuanced accounting questions. The defense team examines whether the accused actually received the property in a fiduciary capacity, whether there was a wrongful intent, and whether the value of the property has been accurately calculated. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, understands how the Commonwealth builds its case and where the evidence may be vulnerable to challenge.
Depending on the facts, the defense may pursue several strategies. Negotiations with the prosecutor can sometimes result in reduced charges—for example, an amendment to a lesser offense or a disposition under Virginia’s first‑offender statute (Va. Code § 19.2‑303.2), which allows the court to defer proceedings and, upon successful completion of probation, dismiss the charge entirely. If a trial is necessary, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel prepare a thorough defense, challenging the state’s evidence and presenting the client’s side of the story. Throughout, the goal is to protect the client’s freedom, reputation, and future.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris is the Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. A former prosecutor, he has practiced law in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York since founding the firm in 1997. He understands criminal procedure from both sides of the courtroom and brings that insight to every embezzlement defense. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience and 4,739+ documented firm-wide results to the representation of clients facing criminal charges in Virginia. Results may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a lawyer for an embezzlement charge in Virginia?
Anyone facing an embezzlement charge in Virginia should speak with a defense attorney as soon as possible. Even a misdemeanor conviction can result in a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and professional licenses. A felony conviction carries the possibility of prison time and the loss of certain civil rights. An attorney can evaluate the evidence, identify potential defenses, negotiate with the prosecutor, and explain the likely course of the case before you make any decisions.
What are the penalties for embezzlement in Virginia?
Embezzlement penalties in Virginia depend on the value of the property taken and whether the offense is charged as petit larceny (misdemeanor) or grand larceny (felony). As a Class 1 misdemeanor, petit larceny carries up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Grand larceny is punishable by one to 20 years in prison, or at the discretion of a jury, up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. The specific sentence is determined by the court after considering the facts and any mitigating circumstances.
Can first‑time embezzlement charges be dismissed in Virginia?
First‑time offenders may be eligible for a deferred disposition under Virginia law that can result in dismissal of the charge. Under Va. Code § 19.2‑303.2, a court can defer proceedings and place a defendant on probation. If the defendant completes all probation conditions—which often include restitution, community service, and avoiding new offenses—the court may dismiss the charge. An attorney can advise you whether your circumstances qualify for this first‑offender program.
What should I do if I’m under investigation for embezzlement?
If you suspect you are under investigation for embezzlement, do not discuss the matter with anyone except your attorney. Avoid speaking with law enforcement, co‑workers, or the alleged victim. Preserve any documents or electronic records that may be relevant. The sooner you involve a criminal defense attorney, the sooner you can begin building a protective strategy—before charges are filed.
How does a Virginia embezzlement case proceed through the courts?
An embezzlement case in Virginia begins with an arrest or summons and proceeds to an arraignment where the charges are formally presented. In a misdemeanor case, trial is held in the General District Court. For a felony, the preliminary hearing takes place in the General District Court, and if the judge finds probable cause, the case is certified to the Circuit Court for trial. Throughout the process, pretrial motions and negotiations may shape the outcome. The timeline varies by jurisdiction and court scheduling.
What experience does the firm have with embezzlement cases?
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has defended individuals against financial crime allegations, including embezzlement, in Virginia courts since 1997. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring experience both as former prosecutors and as defense counsel. Their understanding of how financial‑crime investigations are built, coupled with familiarity with Virginia’s criminal procedure, allows them to develop a focused defense strategy for each client. Results vary; prior outcomes do not guarantee a similar result.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case. Results may vary.