Embezzlement Lawyer Fairfax County — Defending Against Financial Crime Charges
Embezzlement in Fairfax County is a serious white-collar crime prosecuted under Virginia law, often as larceny or fraud. If you are accused of misappropriation of funds, you need an experienced embezzlement lawyer in Fairfax County. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for complex financial cases.
Virginia Embezzlement Law and Penalties
Embezzlement in Virginia is typically charged under larceny or fraud statutes, such as Va. Code § 18.2-111 (embezzlement) or § 18.2-178 (obtaining money by false pretenses). The classification and penalties depend heavily on the value of the property or funds involved.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Mr. Sris’s background in accounting and information systems provides a unique advantage in dissecting complex financial evidence and transactions in embezzlement cases.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia’s embezzlement and fraud statutes, visit the Virginia General Assembly website (Va. Code § 18.2-111). Court procedures and filings for Fairfax County are handled through the Fairfax County General District Court for misdemeanors and the Fairfax County Circuit Court for felonies.
Fairfax County Court Procedures for Embezzlement Cases
Embezzlement charges in Fairfax County begin with an investigation, often by police or an employer, followed by an arrest or summons. Misdemeanor embezzlement cases (involving smaller amounts) are heard in Fairfax County General District Court. Felony embezzlement charges, which carry potential prison time, start with a preliminary hearing in General District Court before moving to Fairfax County Circuit Court for a jury trial.
- Initial Appearance & Bond: After arrest, you will appear before a magistrate. For many first-offense financial crimes, personal recognizance bond is possible.
- Secure Legal Counsel: Contact an embezzlement defense lawyer immediately. Do not speak to investigators without an attorney present.
- Case Review & Discovery: Your attorney will obtain all evidence from the prosecution, including financial records, audit trails, and witness statements.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Strategy: A defense strategy is built, which may involve challenging the sufficiency of evidence, filing motions to suppress, or negotiating for a reduction or dismissal.
- Resolution: Your case may be resolved through a plea agreement, a diversion program, or proceed to a bench or jury trial.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, your attorney will advocate for the most favorable sentence. Appeals are filed with the Virginia Court of Appeals.
Potential Penalties for Embezzlement in Virginia
In Fairfax County, embezzlement penalties range from a misdemeanor with jail time to a felony with years in prison, based entirely on the value of the property taken.
| Offense / Value | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Embezzlement under $1,000 | Petit Larceny (Class 1 Misdemeanor) | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Criminal record, restitution |
| Embezzlement $1,000 – $5,000 | Grand Larceny (Class 6 Felony) | 1 – 5 years | Up to $2,500 | Felony record, restitution, loss of professional licenses |
| Embezzlement $5,000+ | Grand Larceny (Class 5 Felony) | 1 – 10 years (or 12 months at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | Felony record, significant restitution, permanent career impact |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Embezzlement Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm-wide track record includes over 4,739 case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We combine former prosecutorial insight with a founder’s background in accounting to build powerful defenses against financial crime allegations. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to relentless representation.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Case Results in Fairfax County
Our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable outcomes in Fairfax County courts. In one case involving a charge of “Obtain Money on False Pretence >= $200.00 Felony,” our defense resulted in the charge being reduced to a misdemeanor with a suspended jail sentence.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting, provides strategic oversight on complex financial defense matters. His unique skill set is invaluable for clients facing embezzlement and other white-collar allegations.
Embezzlement Lawyer Near Fairfax County
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fairfax County courts. We are your local embezzlement lawyer near Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
By appointment only.
FAQs: Embezzlement Defense in Fairfax County
What is the difference between embezzlement and theft in Virginia?
Yes, there is a key difference. Theft or larceny involves taking property without consent. Embezzlement under Va. Code § 18.2-111 involves the fraudulent conversion of property already in your lawful possession due to a position of trust, like an employee or fiduciary. Both are serious, but embezzlement charges often carry greater stigma.
Can I go to jail for a first-time embezzlement charge in Fairfax County?
It depends on the value involved and the circumstances. A first-time misdemeanor embezzlement (under $1,000) can carry up to 12 months in jail, though alternatives like probation are possible. Felony embezzlement carries a mandatory possibility of prison. An experienced misappropriation of funds defense lawyer in Fairfax County can fight for a non-custodial outcome.
What should I do if I am under investigation for embezzlement?
First, do not speak to investigators, your employer, or anyone else about the case without an attorney. Second, immediately contact a white collar crime defense lawyer in Fairfax County. Third, preserve any documents or records that may be relevant. Early legal intervention is the most critical step to protect your rights.
Is restitution always required in an embezzlement case?
Yes, virtually always. Virginia courts will order you to pay restitution to the victim for the full amount allegedly embezzled, regardless of whether you are convicted or plead guilty. A skilled attorney can negotiate the amount and payment terms.
Can an embezzlement charge be expunged from my record in Virginia?
It depends on the final disposition. If you are acquitted, the charge is dismissed (nolle prosequi), or you complete a first-offender program, you may petition for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. A conviction for embezzlement, however, generally cannot be expunged in Virginia.
Internal Resources
For more information on related legal matters, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page, explore defense options for federal crimes in Fairfax County, or learn about our defense for other business-related charges.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.