Embezzlement Defense Lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia
Embezzlement in Chesterfield County is a serious white-collar crime prosecuted under Virginia and federal law, involving the misappropriation of funds by someone entrusted with them. If you are facing these charges, you need an experienced embezzlement lawyer Chesterfield County. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Virginia Embezzlement Law and Penalties
Embezzlement in Virginia is prosecuted under larceny statutes. The specific charge and penalties depend on the value of the property or funds taken. Virginia law distinguishes between petit larceny (a misdemeanor) and grand larceny (a felony).
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Under Va. Code § 18.2-95, grand larceny involves property valued at $1,000 or more and is a felony punishable by 1 to 20 years in prison, or at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Petit larceny, under Va. Code § 18.2-96, involves property valued under $1,000 and is a Class 1 misdemeanor, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. If the embezzlement involves a public record or is committed by a public officer, the penalties can be more severe. Federal embezzlement charges under 18 U.S.C. § 666 can carry even longer prison sentences.
In Chesterfield County, an embezzlement charge can range from a Class 1 misdemeanor to a felony with decades in prison, depending on the amount and circumstances.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Embezzlement under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Criminal record, restitution, loss of employment |
| Grand Larceny (Embezzlement $1,000+) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-20 years (or 12 months at jury discretion for Class 5) | Up to $2,500 (Class 5) | None directly | Felony record, significant restitution, professional license revocation |
| Federal Embezzlement (18 U.S.C. § 666) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years per count | Substantial fines | None directly | Federal prison, forfeiture, permanent federal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Defense Approach for Embezzlement Cases
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 crime defense. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand that an embezzlement accusation can threaten your career, reputation, and freedom. Our defense strategy focuses on challenging the intent element, examining financial records for errors, negotiating restitution agreements, and, when necessary, mounting an aggressive trial defense.
- Initial Case Assessment: We conduct a thorough review of all financial documents, employment records, and the prosecution’s evidence to identify weaknesses in their case.
- Investigation & experienced Consultation: Our team, sometimes with forensic accountants, investigates the source of the allegations and the accuracy of the claimed losses.
- Pre-Trial Motions: We file motions to suppress improperly obtained evidence or challenge the sufficiency of the prosecution’s case.
- Negotiation & Resolution: We engage with prosecutors to seek a reduction of charges, explore pre-trial diversion programs, or negotiate a favorable plea agreement that may avoid jail time.
- Trial Preparation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we prepare a full trial defense, focusing on lack of criminal intent, authorization, or mistaken accounting.
- Sentencing & Mitigation: If a conviction occurs, we present powerful mitigation evidence to argue for minimal penalties, probation, and favorable restitution terms.
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
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our commitment to client defense is demonstrated through our documented results. In Chesterfield County, we have secured favorable outcomes in financial and property crime cases. For instance, our team has experience with cases involving charges like “Purchase/Possess Alcohol” and “Profane Language Over Public Airway,” achieving dismissals and not-guilty verdicts in Chesterfield General District Court. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our senior attorney, Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. His background in accounting and information systems offers a unique advantage in dissecting financial evidence, a crucial skill for any misappropriation of funds defense lawyer Chesterfield County.
Contact Our Chesterfield County Embezzlement Defense Lawyers
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
Phones 24/7/365; Office by appointment. By appointment only.
Our Richmond location serves clients in Chesterfield County, including the communities of Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley. We are accessible via I-95, I-295, Route 1, Route 10, and Route 360 (Hull Street). If you need an embezzlement lawyer Chesterfield County near the Chesterfield County Courthouse complex, contact us for a 24/7 phone consultation.
Embezzlement Defense FAQs for Chesterfield County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Chesterfield County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at Chesterfield County General District Court (9500 Courthouse Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832). 5 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 2 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Chesterfield County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. An experienced white collar crime defense lawyer Chesterfield County can advise on your specific eligibility.
How does bail work in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Chesterfield County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Chesterfield County General District Court. Bond amount set by magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%); public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony)
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for an embezzlement charge in Chesterfield County?
Yes. Embezzlement charges are complex and carry severe penalties, including felony records and prison time. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases vigorously. A skilled embezzlement lawyer Chesterfield County can challenge the evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and protect your rights throughout the process at Chesterfield County General District and Circuit Courts.
What is the difference between state and federal embezzlement charges?
State charges are filed in Virginia courts (like Chesterfield County) for violations of state law, typically based on the value of the property. Federal charges are filed in U.S. District Court for offenses involving federal programs, agencies, or interstate commerce, often carrying longer mandatory sentences. A defense attorney experienced in both arenas is crucial.
Internal Resources: For more information on related legal issues, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and with related charges such as DUI in Chesterfield County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal guidance regarding your embezzlement case in Chesterfield County.