Embezzlement Lawyer Arlington County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Embezzlement in Arlington County is a serious white-collar crime prosecuted under Virginia law as larceny or under federal statutes. A conviction can mean prison, fines, and a permanent felony record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those accused of misappropriation of funds. Our Arlington County embezzlement lawyer team has handled complex financial cases. We offer 24/7 consultations.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court & U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Embezzlement Law and Penalties
Embezzlement in Virginia is typically prosecuted as larceny under Va. Code § 18.2-95 (grand larceny) or § 18.2-96 (petit larceny), depending on the value of the property or funds taken. The key element is the unlawful conversion of property by someone to whom it was entrusted. Federal embezzlement charges may apply if the crime involves federal funds, programs, or crosses state lines, falling under statutes like 18 U.S.C. § 666 or § 641. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to building your defense.
Official Legal Resources
- Virginia Larceny Statutes (Official Virginia General Assembly)
- U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia
Defending an Embezzlement Case in Arlington County Courts
Arlington County embezzlement cases may start in Arlington County General District Court for preliminary hearings but are often tried in Arlington County Circuit Court for felonies, or in the federal Alexandria Division of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. These cases hinge on financial records, intent, and the definition of authorized use. A common local procedural fact is that prosecutors often rely on forensic accounting reports. Building a defense requires challenging the evidence of intent to permanently deprive and examining the authority granted to the defendant.
- Secure immediate legal representation before speaking with investigators.
- Your attorney will file a motion to preserve all evidence, including electronic records.
- We engage a forensic accountant to conduct an independent review of the financial records.
- We file pre-trial motions to challenge the sufficiency of the evidence or suppress improperly obtained evidence.
- We negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney or U.S. Attorney for a reduction or dismissal based on our findings.
- If necessary, we prepare for a jury trial, presenting a clear narrative about authorization or lack of criminal intent.
Potential Penalties for Embezzlement in Virginia
In Arlington County, embezzlement penalties depend on the value involved: over $1,000 is a felony with prison time; under $1,000 is a misdemeanor with jail and fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Embezzlement ≥ $1,000 (Grand Larceny) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | Up to $2,500 | Permanent felony record, restitution, loss of professional licenses. |
| Embezzlement < $1,000 (Petit Larceny) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Criminal record, restitution, potential immigration consequences. |
| Federal Embezzlement | Felony | Varies by statute; often 10+ years | Up to $250,000+ | Federal prison, supervised release, massive restitution orders. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Embezzlement Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors and attorneys with deep experience in financial crime defense. We understand that an embezzlement accusation can threaten your livelihood, reputation, and freedom. We approach each case with a detailed strategy, often working with financial experts to audit the records in question. Our goal is to secure the best possible outcome, whether through dismissal, reduction of charges, or a favorable verdict at trial.
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 in Arlington County
Our firm has a record of achieving favorable results in Arlington County. In one case, a charge of Destruction of Property With Intent Under $1000 (Va. Code § 18.2-137) was nolle prossed. In another, a Fare Evasion charge was dismissed. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Attorney Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, provides strategic oversight on complex financial cases. His unique skill set is a significant asset in dissecting embezzlement allegations.
Contact Our Arlington County Embezzlement Lawyers
Our Arlington location serves clients throughout Arlington County, including the neighborhoods of Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, and Pentagon City. We are accessible for meetings regarding your misappropriation of funds defense lawyer Arlington County needs.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Embezzlement Defense
What is the difference between embezzlement and theft in Virginia?
Yes, there is a key difference. Theft involves taking property without initial right to it. Embezzlement involves the unlawful conversion of property that was lawfully entrusted to the defendant. Both can be charged as larceny under Virginia law, but the prosecution must prove different elements regarding how the defendant gained control of the funds.
Can I go to jail for a first-time embezzlement charge in Arlington County?
It depends on the value embezzled and the specifics of the case. For a first-time offense involving less than $1,000, jail is possible but not guaranteed. For amounts over $1,000 (a felony), the court guidelines often recommend active incarceration. An experienced embezzlement lawyer Arlington County can argue for alternatives like probation, restitution, and suspended sentences.
What are common defenses to an embezzlement charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to permanently deprive (you intended to repay), claim of right or authorization to use the funds, mistaken identity, insufficient evidence, and entrapment. The best defense depends entirely on the financial facts and communications in your case.
Should I speak to the police or my employer if I’m accused of embezzlement?
No. You have the right to remain silent and should exercise it. Anything you say can be used against you. Politely decline to answer questions and state you wish to speak with your attorney. Contact a white collar crime defense lawyer Arlington County immediately.
Can embezzlement charges be federal?
Yes. If the alleged crime involves federal agency funds, federally insured banks, interstate commerce, or crosses state lines, federal prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia may take the case. Federal penalties are typically more severe than state penalties.
What should I look for in an embezzlement defense attorney?
Look for an attorney with specific experience in financial crime defense, familiarity with both Arlington County courts and federal court, a track record in complex cases, and the resources to work with forensic accountants. A former prosecutor’s insight can be invaluable.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.