Embezzlement Lawyer Virginia, VA
You took an administrative shortcut at work, or maybe you borrowed money from a business account intending to pay it back. Now a detective is asking questions, and you’re being told you could face felony charges. Embezzlement allegations often catch people off guard—the line between a misunderstanding and a criminal accusation can blur quickly. In Virginia, a conviction can mean years in prison and a permanent felony record that follows you into every job application, housing decision, and personal relationship. An experienced embezzlement lawyer can examine the state’s evidence, challenge the prosecution’s narrative, and work to protect your future. For a consultation about your situation, call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
Defense Strategy in Embezzlement Cases
An embezzlement charge under Va. Code § 18.2-111 does not require the prosecution to prove you stole money in the traditional sense. Instead, the Commonwealth must show that you lawfully received money or property belonging to another person and then wrongfully converted it to your own use. This means the state’s case often turns on accounting records, employment policies, and whether you had the required intent to permanently deprive the owner of the property.
Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel focus on the facts the prosecution must establish, such as whether you were indeed entrusted with the funds, whether any money you took was authorized or within the scope of your duties, and whether the state can prove fraudulent intent beyond a reasonable doubt. Many embezzlement cases involve complex financial documents, and the defense often includes scrutinizing those records for mistakes, gaps, or alternative explanations that undercut the government’s theory of theft.
What to Expect When Facing an Embezzlement Charge in Virginia
After an accusation, law enforcement may contact you directly or seek an arrest warrant on the basis of a complaint. Embezzlement cases are generally handled in the Virginia General District Court if the alleged value falls below the felony threshold, or in the Circuit Court if the amount meets the grand larceny standard. The initial hearing in General District Court may be an arraignment, where you are formally notified of the charges and bond is set. For felony matters, a preliminary hearing will follow to determine whether there is probable cause to send the case to the grand jury.
Throughout the process, you have the right to be represented by counsel. The court calendar, the complexity of the financial evidence, and the posture of any plea discussions will influence the timeline. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel advocate at every stage, from advocating for a reasonable bond to negotiating with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a resolution that may avoid trial or reduce the charge, if the evidence allows.
Potential Penalties for Embezzlement in Virginia
Because embezzlement is punished as larceny under Virginia law, the severity of the charge depends on the value of the property involved. If the value is less than $1,000, the offense is classified as petit larceny, a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. When the value reaches $1,000 or more, the charge is grand larceny, a felony that carries a sentence of one to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $2,500. A conviction also results in a permanent criminal record, loss of certain civil rights, and serious implications for professional licensing, security clearances, and future employment.
A judge may impose probation, restitution, or a suspended sentence depending on the circumstances. The availability of first-offender dispositions, deferred adjudication, or expungement later will depend on the final disposition of the case. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel explain the potential consequences clearly so you can make informed decisions about how to proceed.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who has practiced since 1997. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris 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 bring extensive combined legal experience. Results may vary.
The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys contribute deep trial and investigative backgrounds. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have handled a wide range of criminal matters in Virginia courts. The team serves clients from the firm’s Fairfax location and appears in courts across the Commonwealth. Call (888) 437-7747 to discuss your embezzlement case with an experienced attorney.
Frequently Asked Questions About Embezzlement Charges in Virginia
What exactly is embezzlement under Virginia law?
Embezzlement is defined by Va. Code § 18.2-111 as wrongfully converting money or property that was entrusted to you by another person. It differs from larceny because you initially had lawful possession of the item. The prosecution must prove you acted with fraudulent intent to permanently deprive the owner of the property, not merely that a mistake or bad accounting occurred.
Do I need a lawyer if I’ve been accused of embezzlement?
Yes. Embezzlement charges can be felonies, and the consequences include prison time and a permanent record. Even if you believe the accusation is a misunderstanding, an attorney can communicate with law enforcement on your behalf, protect your rights during questioning, and begin building a defense before charges are formally filed. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel conduct early review of the financial records to challenge the state’s narrative.
Can an embezzlement charge be reduced or dropped in Virginia?
It is possible for an embezzlement charge to be reduced or dismissed depending on the evidence. If the prosecution cannot prove intent or the value of the property is in dispute, the charge may be amended to a lesser offense. In some cases, restitution and cooperation can lead to a more favorable resolution. Each case depends on its own facts, and an attorney reviews the specifics to determine the strong $1 strategy.
What should I do if I’m contacted by the police about an embezzlement investigation?
You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions until you have spoken with counsel. Anything you say can be used against you. Contact an attorney immediately after the encounter. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can be reached at (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation so that you have legal advice before you speak with investigators again.
How does the court determine the value of the property in an embezzlement case?
Virginia courts look at the fair market value of the money or property that was converted at the time of the offense. The Commonwealth typically presents financial records, bank statements, and other documentation to establish the amount. The defense may challenge the valuation by showing errors or arguing that certain amounts were authorized or reimbursed. The value directly affects whether the charge is a misdemeanor or felony.
What is the statute of limitations for embezzlement in Virginia?
The statute of limitations for embezzlement generally follows the same period as the underlying larceny classification. For a felony embezzlement (grand larceny), the prosecution typically must bring charges within a time frame set by law. For misdemeanor embezzlement, the period is shorter. Because the deadline can vary based on when the offense was discovered and other factors, it is important to consult an attorney about the specific timing in your case.
For a comprehensive review of Virginia’s embezzlement statute and related case law, visit our main site’s Virginia Criminal Defense practice area.
Reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation about an embezzlement matter in Virginia. Our Fairfax location serves clients throughout the Commonwealth.
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