Embezzlement Lawyer in Manassas, Virginia — What Are Your Defense Options?
Embezzlement in Manassas is a serious white collar crime prosecuted under Virginia law, with penalties ranging from a Class 1 misdemeanor to a Class 2 felony depending on the value involved. An experienced Embezzlement Lawyer Manassas is critical to challenge the prosecution’s evidence of intent and unauthorized control. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Virginia Embezzlement Law and Penalties
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Embezzlement in Virginia is defined as the fraudulent conversion or misappropriation of property, money, or assets entrusted to you. The specific statute is Va. Code § 18.2-111. The severity of the charge depends on the value of the property embezzled. If the value is less than $1,000, it is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. If the value is $1,000 or more, it is a Class 2 felony, carrying a potential prison sentence of 1 to 20 years and a fine of up to $2,500. The prosecution must prove you had lawful possession of the property due to a position of trust and intentionally converted it for your own use.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s embezzlement statute, refer to the official Va. Code § 18.2-111 (Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and filings for Manassas cases are handled through the Manassas General District Court website.
Local Court Process for Embezzlement Charges in Manassas
Embezzlement cases in Manassas begin at the Manassas General District Court for preliminary hearings and misdemeanor trials, with felonies moving to Manassas Circuit Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney must prove specific intent to defraud, which is often the central point of defense. A misappropriation of funds defense lawyer Manassas will scrutinize financial records, employment agreements, and authorization logs to challenge the element of fraudulent intent.
- Initial Appearance & Bond Hearing: You will be arraigned in Manassas General District Court, where the charges are formally read, and bond conditions are set.
- Preliminary Hearing (Felony Cases): For felony embezzlement, a hearing is held in GDC to determine if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court for trial.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your attorney will obtain all evidence, including financial statements, emails, and witness lists, to build your defense.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges may be filed based on procedural errors or lack of evidence.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: Your case will proceed to a bench trial in GDC (misdemeanor) or a jury trial in Circuit Court (felony), or a favorable plea agreement may be negotiated.
- Sentencing (if applicable): If convicted, sentencing will consider restitution, fines, and potential incarceration.
Potential Penalties for Embezzlement in Manassas
In Manassas, embezzlement penalties are determined by the value of the property involved, ranging from jail time for misdemeanors to lengthy prison sentences for felonies, plus mandatory restitution.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Embezzlement under $1,000 | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, permanent criminal record |
| Embezzlement $1,000 or more | Class 2 Felony | 1 to 20 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, felony record, loss of professional licenses |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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 complex financial defense. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand that embezzlement charges threaten your freedom, reputation, and career, requiring a meticulous, evidence-based defense strategy.
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
Our firm actively practices in Manassas courts. While specific local case counts are proprietary, our firm-wide results demonstrate our commitment to vigorous defense. For example, we have successfully defended clients against charges like driving on a suspended license, achieving amendments to lesser offenses. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting, provides strategic oversight on complex financial cases like embezzlement.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Manassas Embezzlement Defense Lawyers
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas courts (9311 Lee Avenue). We are a trusted white collar crime defense lawyer Manassas near Manassas National Battlefield Park and Historic Downtown. We serve clients throughout the Manassas community.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions: Embezzlement Defense in Manassas
What is the difference between embezzlement and theft in Virginia?
Yes, there is a key difference. Theft involves taking property you never had a right to possess. Embezzlement under Va. Code § 18.2-111 involves the fraudulent conversion of property that was lawfully entrusted to you due to your position of trust, such as an employee, fiduciary, or agent.
Can I go to jail for a first-time embezzlement charge in Manassas?
It depends on the value and circumstances. A first-time Class 1 misdemeanor embezzlement (under $1,000) can result in up to 12 months in jail, though alternatives like probation are possible. A felony embezzlement charge carries a mandatory possibility of prison. An experienced Embezzlement Lawyer Manassas can advocate for reduced charges or alternative sentencing, especially for first-time offenders.
What are common defenses to an embezzlement charge?
Common defenses include lack of fraudulent intent (you believed you were authorized), mistake of fact, insufficient evidence to prove the value or the conversion, duress, or entrapment. A misappropriation of funds defense lawyer Manassas will analyze all financial records and communications to identify the strongest defense strategy for your case.
Is restitution mandatory in a Virginia embezzlement case?
Yes. Virginia courts almost always order restitution to the victim as part of the sentence in an embezzlement conviction, regardless of whether jail time is imposed. The amount must be proven by the prosecution.
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 a white collar crime defense lawyer Manassas. Anything you say can be used to build the prosecution’s case against you.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Fairfax County and Prince William County. If you are facing other charges in Manassas, our firm also handles DUI cases and family law matters.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Consult an attorney for current legal advice.