Embezzlement Lawyer Chesterfield County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Embezzlement in Chesterfield County is a serious white-collar crime prosecuted under Virginia and federal law, carrying severe penalties including prison time and fines. If you are accused of misappropriation of funds, securing an experienced embezzlement lawyer Chesterfield County is critical. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for complex financial cases.
Statutory Definition of Embezzlement in Virginia
Embezzlement is the fraudulent conversion or misappropriation of funds or property entrusted to one’s care. In Virginia, this offense is primarily prosecuted under larceny statutes (Va. Code § 18.2-95 for grand larceny, § 18.2-96 for petit larceny) when the value of the property determines the charge level. Federal charges may apply under statutes like 18 U.S.C. § 656 (bank embezzlement) or § 666 (theft concerning programs receiving federal funds). The prosecution must prove you had lawful possession of the property due to a position of trust and intentionally converted it for personal use.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia’s larceny statutes, see Va. Code § 18.2-95 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information and procedures can be found at the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for Embezzlement Charges
Embezzlement cases in Chesterfield County begin with an investigation, often by police or a corporate entity, followed by an arrest or summons. Misdemeanor petit larceny (value under $1,000) is heard in Chesterfield County General District Court. Felony grand larceny (value $1,000+) starts with a preliminary hearing in General District Court before moving to Chesterfield County Circuit Court for a jury trial. Federal charges are prosecuted in U.S. District Court.
- Secure an attorney immediately upon suspicion or accusation to advise you during any investigation.
- Your attorney will review all financial records and communications to assess the prosecution’s evidence.
- We will file pre-trial motions to challenge the legality of evidence or the sufficiency of the charging documents.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to seek a reduction of charges or a favorable plea agreement, if in your best interest.
- Prepare for and conduct a vigorous trial defense if the case proceeds, challenging the intent element and the valuation of the alleged loss.
Potential Penalties for Embezzlement
In Chesterfield County, embezzlement penalties depend on the value of the property and whether it’s charged as a state or federal crime, ranging from misdemeanors to long-term felonies.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Criminal record, restitution |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1 to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | Felony record, significant restitution |
| Federal Bank Embezzlement | Federal Felony | Up to 30 years | Up to $1,000,000 | Federal prison, forfeiture |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Financial Crime Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex financial cases. Our background in accounting and information systems provides a unique advantage in dissecting financial evidence, tracing transactions, and challenging forensic reports in embezzlement and misappropriation of funds defense lawyer Chesterfield County cases.
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
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes. In Chesterfield County, we have secured results including dismissals and charge reductions in various criminal matters. For instance, we have achieved “Not Guilty” verdicts on charges like profane language over public airways and dismissals for alcohol-related offenses.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on complex criminal defense, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor and firm founder with a multi-state practice and a background in accounting that is particularly valuable in financial cases.
Contact Our Richmond Location for Chesterfield County
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges in Chesterfield County courts. We are accessible via I-95, I-295, and Route 1.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
We serve communities including Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Chesterfield County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Embezzlement charged as petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Can embezzlement charges be expunged in Virginia?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement only for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. A conviction for embezzlement, even a misdemeanor, generally cannot be expunged from your record, making a strong defense from the outset critical.
How does bail work for an embezzlement arrest in Chesterfield County?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. For felony embezzlement, a secured bond requiring a bail bondsman (typically 10% of the bond amount) is common. For first-offense misdemeanor charges, personal recognizance release is possible.
What’s the difference between state and federal embezzlement charges?
State charges are filed in Virginia courts for violations of state law. Federal charges apply if the crime involves federally insured banks, interstate commerce, or theft from programs receiving federal funds, and are prosecuted in U.S. District Court with typically longer potential sentences.
Do I need a lawyer for an embezzlement investigation?
Yes. If you are under investigation for embezzlement or misappropriation of funds, you should consult an attorney immediately. An experienced embezzlement lawyer Chesterfield County can advise you during interviews, help secure evidence, and protect your rights before charges are even filed.
Related Legal Information
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. If you are in a neighboring area, consider our Henrico County criminal defense lawyer services. For other legal needs in Chesterfield County, see our Chesterfield County DUI lawyer page.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance regarding your specific case.