Embezzlement Lawyer Dinwiddie County, VA

A knock on the door from investigators, an unexpected audit at work—accusations of embezzlement can feel like the ground is shifting beneath your feet. In Dinwiddie County, a charge under Va. Code § 18.2-111 threatens jail time, steep fines, and a permanent criminal record. Whether the allegation stems from a dispute with a former employer, a misunderstanding over business funds, or a complex financial investigation, you need an experienced defense lawyer who understands both the law and the local courts. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel defend clients facing embezzlement charges in Dinwiddie County. Call (888) 437-7747 to discuss your situation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

Defending an Embezzlement Charge in Dinwiddie County

A strong defense begins with a thorough review of the prosecution’s evidence. Embezzlement requires a showing of fraudulent intent—a simple bookkeeping mistake or a disputed ownership right does not satisfy that standard. Our attorneys examine financial records, interview witnesses, and scrutinize the chain of custody for any evidence the Commonwealth intends to introduce. If law enforcement exceeded the scope of a search warrant or failed to give Miranda warnings, a motion to suppress may be filed. In many cases, the value of the property allegedly taken is a central issue; a discrepancy in the valuation can move a case from felony territory to a misdemeanor, which dramatically reduces exposure. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel also explore whether a civil resolution—such as restitution or an accounting between former business partners—could resolve the matter without a criminal conviction.

What to Expect When Facing an Embezzlement Case

If you are arrested or receive a summons, your first court appearance will be at the Dinwiddie County General District Court, located at the Dinwiddie Courthouse, Dinwiddie, VA 23841. For a first-offense misdemeanor, the magistrate often releases you on personal recognizance; for a felony charge, a secured bond is typical and the amount is set at the initial appearance. The General District Court conducts a preliminary hearing in felony cases to determine whether probable cause exists. If the judge finds probable cause, the case is certified to the Dinwiddie County Circuit Court, where you have an absolute right to a jury trial. Throughout this process, the Commonwealth’s Attorney for Dinwiddie County prosecutes the case, but defense counsel and the prosecutor may discuss a resolution—for example, an amendment to a reduced charge or participation in a first-offender program where available. Timelines vary with court scheduling, but Virginia’s speedy trial statute requires a trial within five months for a misdemeanor and nine months for a felony if the defendant remains in custody.

Penalties for Embezzlement Under Virginia Law

Embezzlement is punished as larceny under Va. Code § 18.2-111. The classification turns on the dollar amount: if the value of the property or money is $1,000 or more, the offense is grand larceny, a felony. A conviction can carry one to 20 years in prison, though a jury has discretion to impose a sentence of up to 12 months in jail. When the value is less than $1,000, the charge is petit larceny—a Class 1 misdemeanor—which is punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Beyond incarceration, a conviction leaves a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, professional licenses, and housing. An embezzlement charge prosecuted in Dinwiddie County Circuit Court as a felony also carries long-term collateral consequences, including a loss of firearm rights. For a comprehensive statutory analysis, you can also visit our firm’s Virginia criminal law page.

Experienced Criminal Defense for Dinwiddie County

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced criminal defense since 1997 and is a former prosecutor. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team bring extensive combined legal experience, including backgrounds as former prosecutors and former law enforcement officers—giving them insight into how the other side builds its case and where its investigation may have weaknesses. The firm has documented case results in Dinwiddie County across multiple practice areas. Results may vary. To speak with an attorney about an embezzlement investigation or charge, call (888) 437-7747.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is embezzlement under Virginia law?

Embezzlement is the wrongful and fraudulent use of money or property entrusted to someone by another, charged as larceny under Va. Code § 18.2-111. The key element is a breach of trust—the accused had lawful possession of the property but converted it to their own use with fraudulent intent. Because Virginia treats embezzlement as larceny, the punishment depends on the value of the property, with a statutory amount as the threshold between misdemeanor petit larceny and felony grand larceny.

What are the penalties for embezzlement in Dinwiddie County?

An embezzlement conviction is punished as larceny: a Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine) if the value is under $1,000, and a felony (1‑20 years imprisonment) if the value is $1,000 or more. Felony cases are heard in Dinwiddie County Circuit Court, where defendants have a right to a jury trial. The specific sentence varies with the facts and the defendant’s record.

How does a Virginia lawyer defend against embezzlement charges?

A defense may challenge whether the accused acted with fraudulent intent, whether the property was actually owned by someone else, or whether the evidence was obtained in violation of the defendant’s constitutional rights. Attorneys also scrutinize the valuation of the allegedly embezzled property—a reduction in the claimed amount can change a felony to a misdemeanor. Restitution and negotiated resolutions are often part of the defense strategy.

What should I do if I am facing embezzlement charges in Dinwiddie County?

Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately, and do not discuss the facts with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all financial documents, emails, and other records. Your attorney can advise you on whether to speak with investigators and can begin building a defense before the first court date at the Dinwiddie County General District Court.

Can embezzlement charges be expunged in Virginia?

Virginia allows expungement only for charges that ended in an acquittal, nolle prosequi, or dismissal—convictions generally cannot be expunged. A petition for expungement is filed in the Dinwiddie County Circuit Court under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. If a first-offender disposition or deferred judgment leads to a dismissal, that may also be eligible for expungement.

Do I need a lawyer if I am only being investigated for embezzlement?

Yes, an investigation is a critical point to retain counsel; statements made before an arrest can still be used against you. An attorney can communicate with investigators, help prevent the seizure of privileged documents, and begin developing a defense strategy before charges are filed. Early involvement often results in a better outcome.

For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

Serving Dinwiddie County from our Richmond location: 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225. By appointment only. Call (888) 437-7747 to schedule.

Additional resources: Virginia Code | Dinwiddie County General District Court | Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.

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