Embezzlement Lawyer Prince William County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Embezzlement in Prince William 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 Prince William County. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for complex financial charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince William County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Embezzlement involves the fraudulent taking of money or property by someone to whom it was entrusted. In Virginia, this is typically prosecuted under statutes for larceny (Va. Code § 18.2-95 for grand larceny, § 18.2-96 for petit larceny) or obtaining money by false pretenses (Va. Code § 18.2-178). The specific charge and penalties depend on the value of the property and the circumstances. As a white collar crime, these cases often involve complex financial records and require a defense lawyer with a detailed approach.
For the official Virginia statutes, see Va. Code § 18.2-95 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Prince William County General District Court website.
- Secure all relevant financial records, emails, and communications related to the accusation.
- Consult immediately with an embezzlement lawyer Prince William County to protect your rights during any investigation.
- Your attorney will analyze the prosecution’s evidence for weaknesses, such as lack of intent or authorization.
- Prepare for potential motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors.
- If the case proceeds, develop a trial strategy focused on challenging the elements of the crime.
In Prince William County, embezzlement penalties range from a Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine) for petit larceny under $1,000, to a felony with years in prison for larger amounts.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Embezzlement under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Grand Larceny (Embezzlement $1,000-$5,000) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, restitution, difficulty finding employment |
| Grand Larceny (Embezzlement over $5,000) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | None | Severe felony record, significant restitution |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and more than 4,739 documented case results firm-wide, we have the depth to handle complex financial defense. Our team includes attorneys with backgrounds that provide an advantage in dissecting financial evidence and transactions.
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
In Prince William County, we have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing serious charges. Results may vary. Our approach involves meticulous case review and strategic planning from the start.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Prince William County courts. We are your local embezzlement lawyer near Manassas and Woodbridge, serving communities like Dale City, Dumfries, Gainesville, Haymarket, Lake Ridge, and Occoquan. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
FAQs: Embezzlement Defense in Prince William County
What is the penalty for embezzlement in Virginia?
It depends on the value. Embezzlement under $1,000 is petit larceny, a Class 1 misdemeanor with up to 12 months in jail. Over $1,000 is grand larceny, a felony carrying 1 to 10 years in prison. Restitution is always ordered.
Can I go to jail for a first-time embezzlement charge?
Yes. Virginia law allows jail time for even first-time misdemeanor larceny convictions. For felony embezzlement, prison time is likely. An experienced misappropriation of funds defense lawyer Prince William County can work to mitigate these penalties.
What’s the difference between embezzlement and theft?
Embezzlement is a specific type of theft where the person had lawful possession or access to the property initially, like an employee, and then converted it for personal use. General theft involves taking property without any right to possession.
Do I need a lawyer for an embezzlement investigation?
Yes. If you are under investigation for misappropriation of funds, consult a white collar crime defense lawyer Prince William County immediately. Do not speak to investigators without an attorney present, as statements can be used against you.
What are common defenses to embezzlement?
Defenses include lack of intent to steal (you believed you were authorized), consent from the owner, mistaken identity, or insufficient evidence that you were the one who took the funds. Each case requires a detailed review by your embezzlement lawyer.
For related legal help, see our pages for Criminal Defense Lawyer Fairfax County and Business Lawyer Prince William County. Learn more about our firm on our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.