Embezzlement Lawyer Falls Church — What Are Your Defense Options?
Embezzlement in Falls Church is a serious white-collar crime prosecuted under Virginia law. If you are accused of misappropriating funds, you need an experienced embezzlement lawyer Falls Church from SRIS, P.C. Our firm has documented results defending clients in Falls Church General District Court and Circuit Court. We provide 24/7 consultations to discuss your case.
Virginia Embezzlement Law and Penalties
Last verified: April 2026 | Falls Church General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Embezzlement, the fraudulent taking of property by someone to whom it was entrusted, is defined under Virginia’s larceny statutes. The specific charges and penalties depend heavily on the value of the property involved. For a white collar crime defense lawyer Falls Church, understanding these thresholds is critical to building your defense strategy.
The primary statute is Va. Code § 18.2-95 (Grand Larceny). If the value of the money or property is $1,000 or more, the charge is grand larceny, a felony. Penalties can include 1 to 20 years in prison. For property valued under $1,000, the charge is petit larceny under Va. Code § 18.2-96, a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
In Falls Church, an embezzlement charge can range from a misdemeanor with jail time to a felony carrying years in prison, based on the alleged value taken.
| Charge | 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, loss of professional license |
| Grand Larceny (Value $1,000+) | Felony | 1 – 20 years | Court discretion | Felony record, significant restitution, permanent career impact |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
- Initial Consultation: Contact an embezzlement lawyer Falls Church immediately. Discuss all details of the accusation confidentially.
- Evidence Review: Your attorney will scrutinize financial records, employment agreements, and communications to understand the state’s case.
- Strategy Development: Based on the evidence, your lawyer will determine the best approach, which may involve challenging intent, valuation, or procedural errors.
- Court Representation: Your attorney will represent you at all hearings in Falls Church General District Court or Circuit Court, advocating for dismissal, reduction, or acquittal.
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 cases like embezzlement. Our background in accounting and information systems provides a unique advantage in dissecting financial evidence. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes across Virginia, including in Falls Church.
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 has secured favorable results for clients facing serious charges. In Falls Church, we have documented case outcomes including dismissals and charge reductions. For instance, our team, including experienced attorneys like Mr. Sris, has successfully navigated complex larceny and fraud cases by meticulously challenging the prosecution’s evidence and valuation methods.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Embezzlement Defense Lawyer Near Falls Church, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients in Falls Church. We are accessible via Route 7, Route 29, I-66, and I-495, near the West Falls Church Metro.
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.
Serving Falls Church and surrounding communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between embezzlement and theft in Virginia?
It depends on the relationship to the property. Theft involves taking property you have no right to. Embezzlement involves fraudulently converting property that was lawfully entrusted to you. Both are prosecuted under Virginia’s larceny statutes, but the circumstances of access are a key element the prosecution must prove.
Can I go to jail for a first-time embezzlement charge in Falls Church?
Yes. Even a first-time petit larceny (under $1,000) charge is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail. For felony grand larceny ($1,000+), state prison time is a possibility. An experienced embezzlement lawyer Falls Church can work to mitigate these penalties, often seeking alternatives to incarceration for first-time offenders.
What are common defenses to embezzlement charges?
Common defenses include lack of fraudulent intent (you believed you had a right to the funds), mistaken valuation (the amount is below the felony threshold), insufficient evidence, or authorization. A white collar crime defense lawyer Falls Church will analyze the specific facts to identify the most viable defense strategy for your case.
Will I lose my professional license if convicted of embezzlement?
It is a significant risk. Many professional licensing boards in Virginia (for CPAs, realtors, attorneys, etc.) can revoke or suspend a license following a felony or misdemeanor conviction involving fraud or dishonesty. A conviction can end a career. A strong defense is essential to protect your livelihood.
Should I talk to investigators without a lawyer?
No. You should always consult with an attorney before speaking with law enforcement or investigators about a misappropriation of funds allegation. What you say can be used to establish intent, a critical element of the crime. An attorney can advise you on your rights and manage communications.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding embezzlement charges in Falls Church.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Fairfax County and with related matters such as Business Law in Falls Church.