Embezzlement Lawyer Fairfax — Defending Against Misappropriation of Funds Charges
Embezzlement in Fairfax County is a serious white-collar crime prosecuted under Virginia law. If you are accused of misappropriating funds, you need an experienced embezzlement lawyer Fairfax from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Our firm has documented results defending clients in Fairfax County General District and Circuit Courts. We provide 24/7 phone consultations to discuss your case.
Virginia Embezzlement Law and Penalties
Embezzlement in Virginia is defined as the fraudulent conversion or misappropriation of property, money, or assets entrusted to one’s care. It is prosecuted under various statutes, primarily Va. Code § 18.2-111. The severity of the charge depends on the value of the property involved. An experienced white collar crime defense lawyer Fairfax can explain how these statutes apply to your specific situation.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
External Legal Resources
For the official Virginia statute on embezzlement, see Va. Code § 18.2-111 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information and procedures can be found at the Fairfax County General District Court website.
handling an Embezzlement Case in Fairfax County
Fairfax County prosecutors take financial crimes seriously. The Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office will often pursue charges based on forensic accounting and financial records. A misappropriation of funds defense lawyer Fairfax must be prepared to challenge the evidence of intent and fraudulent conversion. In Fairfax County General District Court, preliminary hearings for felony embezzlement set the stage for potential Circuit Court trials.
- Secure Immediate Legal Counsel: Contact an embezzlement lawyer Fairfax immediately upon suspicion or accusation to protect your rights during any investigation.
- Case Assessment & Discovery: Your attorney will obtain all evidence from the prosecution, including financial records, emails, and audit reports, to build your defense.
- Develop a Defense Strategy: Strategies may include challenging the intent to defraud, arguing a lack of fraudulent conversion, or negotiating for a reduced charge based on restitution.
- Court Proceedings: Your case will proceed through Fairfax County General District Court for preliminary matters and, if a felony, to Fairfax County Circuit Court for trial.
- Resolution: Work with your lawyer to pursue the best possible outcome, which could be dismissal, reduction of charges, or a favorable plea agreement.
Potential Penalties for Embezzlement in Virginia
In Fairfax County, embezzlement penalties are severe and depend on the value of the property taken, ranging from a misdemeanor with jail time to a felony carrying years in prison.
| Offense / Value | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Embezzlement under $1,000 | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Restitution, permanent criminal record |
| Embezzlement $1,000+ | Grand Larceny (Felony) | 1 to 20 years* | At court’s discretion | Restitution, felony record, loss of professional licenses |
| Embezzlement from Employer | Varies by value | See above | See above | Civil liability, career damage, loss of security clearances |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
*Sentencing for felonies is guided by Virginia’s discretionary sentencing guidelines.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Embezzlement Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to vigorous defense. We understand the complex financial evidence involved in embezzlement cases and work with forensic experts to challenge the prosecution’s claims.
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 and Client Advocacy
In Fairfax County, our firm has a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing serious charges. While every case is unique, our approach is thorough and strategic. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, provides oversight on complex financial cases, leveraging his background in accounting and information systems.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Fairfax Embezzlement Defense Lawyers
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fairfax County courts. We represent individuals from Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area.
Need an embezzlement lawyer near Fairfax? We offer 24/7 phone consultations. Meetings are by appointment only at our Fairfax location.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Embezzlement Defense in Fairfax
What is the difference between embezzlement and theft in Virginia?
Yes, there is a key difference. Theft involves taking property you have no right to, while embezzlement involves the fraudulent conversion of property that was lawfully entrusted to you. This legal distinction is crucial for your defense strategy with an embezzlement lawyer Fairfax.
Can I go to jail for a first-time embezzlement charge in Fairfax?
It depends on the value of the alleged loss. Embezzlement under $1,000 is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail. For amounts over $1,000, it is a felony with the potential for prison time. An experienced white collar crime defense lawyer Fairfax can work to mitigate these penalties, especially for first-time offenders.
What are common defenses to an embezzlement charge?
Common defenses include lack of fraudulent intent (you believed you had a right to the funds), absence of conversion (the funds were not misappropriated), mistake of fact, or insufficient evidence. A misappropriation of funds defense lawyer Fairfax will analyze the specific facts to identify the strongest defense.
Should I speak to investigators if I’m suspected of embezzlement?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. You should politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact an embezzlement lawyer Fairfax. Anything you say can be used against you, even if you are trying to explain your innocence.
Can I get an embezzlement charge expunged in Virginia?
Virginia expungement law (Va. Code § 19.2-392.2) generally allows expungement only for acquittals, dismissals, or cases where the charges were nolle prossed. A conviction for embezzlement typically cannot be expunged, highlighting the importance of a strong defense from the outset.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Fairfax City and Falls Church. If you are facing other charges, explore our services as a DUI lawyer in Fairfax or a divorce and family law lawyer in Fairfax.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Consult with an attorney for the most current legal guidance.