Virginia Embezzlement Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Embezzlement in Virginia is a serious white-collar crime prosecuted under state and federal law, carrying severe penalties including prison time and fines. As an embezzlement lawyer Virginia, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. defends clients against charges of misappropriation of funds. Our firm has handled firm-wide 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Contact us 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Virginia Embezzlement Law and Penalties
Embezzlement in Virginia is prosecuted under larceny statutes, primarily Va. Code § 18.2-111, which defines the crime as wrongfully appropriating property entrusted to you. The severity of the charge depends on the value of the property taken. For amounts under $1,000, it is petit larceny, a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. For amounts of $1,000 or more, it is grand larceny, a felony that can be classified as a Class 6 felony (1-5 years in prison) or a Class 5 felony (1-10 years). Federal embezzlement charges under 18 U.S.C. § 666 can carry even longer sentences.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Courts | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia’s larceny statutes, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-111 (official Virginia General Assembly). For federal law, see the U.S. Code (Cornell Legal Information Institute). Court procedures are managed by the Virginia Court System.
Defending an Embezzlement Case in Virginia
Defending against embezzlement requires a detailed understanding of financial records and intent. A common local procedural fact is that prosecutors often rely on forensic accounting reports. In Virginia courts, establishing a lack of fraudulent intent is a primary defense strategy. The accused may have believed they were entitled to the funds or intended to repay them.
- Initial Consultation: Discuss all details of the accusation and your employment relationship with a defense lawyer.
- Evidence Review: Your attorney will subpoena and analyze all financial records, emails, and company policies.
- Defense Strategy: Build a defense based on lack of intent, authorization, or mistaken accounting.
- Negotiation or Trial: Work to have charges reduced or dismissed pre-trial, or prepare for a jury trial to argue your case.
Potential Penalties for Embezzlement in Virginia
In Virginia, embezzlement penalties range from misdemeanor jail time for smaller amounts to lengthy felony prison sentences for larger sums, plus substantial fines and mandatory restitution.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Value under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Restitution, criminal record |
| Grand Larceny (Value $1,000+) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | Restitution, felony record, loss of professional licenses |
| Grand Larceny (Value $1,000+ with aggravation) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | Restitution, felony record, severe collateral consequences |
| Federal Embezzlement (18 U.S.C. § 666) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years per count | Substantial fines | Restitution, federal felony record, asset forfeiture |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in White-Collar Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We understand that embezzlement and misappropriation of funds charges can threaten your career, reputation, and freedom. Our approach involves meticulous case analysis and strategic defense planning.
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
Documented Case Results
Our firm has a documented record of firm-wide 4,739+ case results across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and DC, with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In white-collar defense, favorable outcomes often involve pre-trial negotiations to reduce felony charges to misdemeanors, secure alternatives to incarceration, or achieve case dismissals based on lack of evidence.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Virginia Embezzlement Defense Lawyers
If you are under investigation or have been charged with embezzlement in Virginia, contact a white collar crime defense lawyer Virginia immediately. Our Fairfax location serves clients across the state.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
We serve communities across Virginia, including Fairfax, Arlington, Richmond, and Virginia Beach.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between state and federal embezzlement charges in Virginia?
It depends on who is alleged to have been defrauded. State charges apply to theft from private employers or individuals under Va. Code § 18.2-111. Federal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 666 apply if the funds belonged to an organization, state, or local government agency that receives over $10,000 in federal benefits in a year. Federal penalties are typically more severe.
Can I go to jail for a first-time embezzlement offense in Virginia?
Yes. Even a first-time offense classified as grand larceny (over $1,000) is a felony with a potential prison sentence of 1-5 years. For smaller amounts under $1,000, jail time of up to 12 months is possible. An experienced misappropriation of funds defense lawyer Virginia can work to mitigate these penalties.
What are common defenses to an embezzlement charge?
Common defenses include lack of fraudulent intent (you believed you were authorized), mistake or accident in accounting, entrapment, insufficient evidence to prove the value or your exclusive control, and duress. Your attorney will analyze the specific facts to identify the strongest defense strategy.
Will I have to pay restitution if convicted?
Yes. Virginia courts almost always order restitution to the victim as part of the sentence in an embezzlement case. This is a separate financial obligation from any fines imposed by the court and is mandatory.
Should I speak to investigators without a lawyer?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Anything you say can be used against you. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a white collar crime defense lawyer Virginia. Early legal intervention is critical.
Related Pages: For other legal issues, see our pages on Virginia Federal Criminal Defense, Federal Criminal Lawyer Fairfax County, and Petit Larceny Lawyer in Accomack.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current legal guidance.