In Arlington County, theft of government property under 18 U.S.C. § 641 carries up to 10 years in federal prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 21 documented results in Arlington County. A Theft of Government Property lawyer Arlington County from our firm can build your defense.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-91 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Federal law under 18 U.S.C. § 641 makes it a crime to embezzle, steal, or knowingly convert property of the United States government. This includes money, records, or any tangible item valued at $1,000 or more. A Theft of Government Property lawyer Arlington County understands that the government must prove you acted with intent to deprive the owner of the property. The statute covers both direct theft and unauthorized use of government assets. Penalties increase significantly for property valued over $1,000.
For more information, review the Virginia breaking and entering statute (Va. Code § 18.2-91) and the Arlington County General District Court website.
In Arlington County, theft of government property cases often begin with a federal investigation by agencies like the FBI or IRS. The prosecutor must show you knowingly took property belonging to the U.S. government. Your first court appearance will be at the Arlington County General District Court for a preliminary hearing.
- Contact a Theft of Government Property lawyer Arlington County immediately upon learning of an investigation.
- Do not speak to investigators without your attorney present.
- Preserve all documents and records related to the alleged theft.
- Attend all court hearings at Arlington County General District Court.
- Work with your lawyer to negotiate a plea or prepare for trial.
- Consider diversion programs if eligible under federal guidelines.
In Arlington County, theft of government property carries up to 10 years in federal prison and fines up to $250,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft of Government Property (under $1,000) | Federal Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year | Up to $100,000 | None | Federal criminal record |
| Theft of Government Property ($1,000+) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $250,000 | None | Federal criminal record, loss of federal benefits |
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. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and has documented 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. Our federal property theft defense lawyer Arlington County team includes former prosecutors who understand how the government builds its case. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating deep legal experience.
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
In Arlington County, our firm has 21 documented results: 11 dismissed/not guilty, 10 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate). Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, we have 4,739+ documented results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our government asset theft lawyer Arlington County team has handled numerous theft of government property cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Arlington location is near the Arlington County courts, accessible via I-395 and Route 50. We serve Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only.
What is the penalty for theft of government property in Arlington County?
Yes, penalties depend on the property value. Under 18 U.S.C. § 641, theft of property valued under $1,000 is a federal misdemeanor carrying up to 1 year in prison. Property valued at $1,000 or more is a felony carrying up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $250,000.
Can theft of government property charges be dismissed in Arlington County?
Yes, charges can be dismissed if the government cannot prove you acted with intent to steal. A Theft of Government Property lawyer Arlington County can challenge the evidence, including lack of intent or mistaken identity. Our firm has 11 dismissals in Arlington County.
How does the court process work for theft of government property in Arlington County?
It depends on whether the case is state or federal. Federal cases begin with an indictment and initial appearance in federal court. State cases start at Arlington County General District Court. Both require a preliminary hearing and potential trial.
Do I need a lawyer for theft of government property in Arlington County?
Yes, theft of government property is a serious federal offense. Even a misdemeanor conviction creates a permanent federal criminal record. A Theft of Government Property lawyer Arlington County can negotiate with prosecutors and protect your rights.
What is the difference between theft of government property and other theft charges in Arlington County?
Theft of government property involves property belonging to the U.S. government, not private individuals. It is prosecuted federally under 18 U.S.C. § 641, while other theft charges fall under Virginia state law (Va. Code § 18.2-91). Federal penalties are generally more severe.
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Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.