Embezzlement Lawyer in Virginia — Federal & State Defense
Embezzlement in Virginia is prosecuted under both state and federal law, with penalties including significant prison time and fines. As an embezzlement lawyer Virginia, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. defends against these serious white-collar charges. Our firm has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Contact us 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Courts | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Embezzlement Law & Penalties
Embezzlement in Virginia is defined as the fraudulent appropriation of property by a person to whom it has been entrusted. It is prosecuted under various statutes depending on the value and nature of the property. State-level charges are typically brought under Virginia’s larceny statutes (Va. Code § 18.2-95 for grand larceny, § 18.2-96 for petit larceny), while federal charges may be brought under statutes like 18 U.S.C. § 656 (theft by bank employee) or § 666 (theft concerning programs receiving federal funds). The key element is the breach of a fiduciary duty.
For a misappropriation of funds defense lawyer Virginia, understanding whether a case will be prosecuted in state or federal court is a critical first step. Federal jurisdiction often applies when the offense involves federal agencies, financial institutions, or crosses state lines.
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-95 (Grand Larceny) — Official Virginia statute.
- U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia — Federal court website.
- Initial Investigation: Law enforcement or a federal agency (FBI, Secret Service) investigates suspected financial discrepancies.
- Charging Decision: Prosecutors decide whether to file state charges in Circuit Court or federal charges in U.S. District Court.
- Arraignment & Bond Hearing: You appear in court, are formally charged, and a bond is set. Federal bonds are often more restrictive.
- Discovery & Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney reviews all evidence and files motions to challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most cases are resolved through negotiation. If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a bench or jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the court imposes a sentence based on federal or state sentencing guidelines.
In Virginia, embezzlement penalties range from a Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months jail) for petit larceny to a Class 2 felony (20 years to life) for bank fraud, with federal sentences often being more severe.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Value under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Criminal record, restitution |
| Grand Larceny (Value $1,000+) | Felony (Class 6, 5, or 2) | 1 year to life | Up to $100,000 | Felony record, restitution, asset forfeiture |
| Federal Bank Embezzlement (18 U.S.C. § 656) | Federal Felony | Up to 30 years | Up to $1,000,000 | Federal prison, supervised release, forfeiture |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Virginia Embezzlement Defense Team
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 team includes attorneys with specific insight into complex financial investigations. Mr. Sris’s background in accounting and information systems provides a unique advantage in dissecting financial records and digital evidence central to embezzlement cases. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes in complex white-collar matters.
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
Case Results & Client Advocacy
Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. In white-collar and federal defense, our strategies focus on challenging the intent element, negotiating restitution agreements, and pursuing pre-trial diversions where possible. For instance, our team, including white collar crime defense lawyer Virginia Matthew Greene, has successfully negotiated resolutions that avoided prison time for clients facing federal fraud charges by demonstrating cooperation and arranging restitution.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Embezzlement Lawyer Near Virginia
Our Fairfax location is centrally located to serve clients across Virginia, including those facing charges in federal courts in Alexandria, Richmond, or Roanoke. We serve communities statewide.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Virginia Embezzlement Defense FAQs
What is the difference between state and federal embezzlement charges in Virginia?
It depends on the specific circumstances. State charges apply to theft from Virginia entities. Federal charges apply if the victim is a federal agency, bank, or if the crime involves interstate commerce. A white collar crime defense lawyer Virginia can analyze your case to determine the likely jurisdiction.
Can I go to jail for embezzlement in Virginia?
Yes. Penalties range from up to 12 months for a misdemeanor to 30 years or more in federal prison for major fraud. The sentence depends on the amount taken, your criminal history, and whether restitution is made.
What are the defenses to an embezzlement charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent (you believed you were entitled to the funds), mistake, insufficient evidence, or entrapment. An experienced embezzlement lawyer Virginia will examine the transaction records and communications to build your defense.
Is restitution mandatory in embezzlement cases?
Virtually always. Courts in Virginia and federal courts almost always order full restitution to the victim as part of the sentence, even if it reduces the jail time imposed. Arranging restitution proactively can be a powerful negotiation point.
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. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a misappropriation of funds defense lawyer Virginia. Anything you say can be used against you.
Related Pages: Virginia Federal Criminal Lawyer | Federal Criminal Lawyer Fairfax County | Reckless Driving Lawyer Accomack
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.