Embezzlement Lawyer Prince William County, VA
An embezzlement charge in Prince William County can lead to serious consequences, including a felony conviction, incarceration, and a permanent criminal record. Embezzlement is prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-111, which treats the offense as larceny. The classification—misdemeanor or felony—depends on the value of the property alleged to have been taken. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel represent individuals facing embezzlement allegations in the Prince William County General District Court and Circuit Court. Our firm has documented 141 criminal case results in Prince William County, with 118 dismissed or not guilty and 19 reduced or amended. Results may vary. If you need legal guidance after an embezzlement charge, reach our location at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Embezzlement Means in Prince William County
Embezzlement in Virginia involves the wrongful appropriation of money or property that a person has been entrusted to hold or manage. Under Va. Code § 18.2-111, an individual may be charged if they fraudulently use, dispose of, or conceal assets belonging to another. The offense is treated as larceny, so the potential penalties follow the same statutory structure: if the value is $1,000 or more, the charge is grand larceny, a felony punishable by imprisonment for one to twenty years or, at the discretion of a jury, confinement in jail for up to twelve months and a fine of up to $2,500. For amounts under $1,000, the charge is petit larceny, a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to twelve months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
In Prince William County, misdemeanor embezzlement cases are heard in the General District Court at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas. Felony cases begin with a preliminary hearing in that same court before being certified to the Prince William County Circuit Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office prosecutes these matters, and the procedural timeline varies by case complexity and court scheduling. Because embezzlement often involves financial records, investigation can be lengthy. An experienced defense attorney familiar with these local courts can examine the evidence for weaknesses and work toward a favorable resolution.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Embezzlement Cases
When a client brings an embezzlement matter to Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel begin by analyzing the specific allegations and the financial records involved. The defense approach may challenge whether the accused actually held a position of trust over the property, whether the handling of funds was authorized, and whether the prosecution can prove fraudulent intent beyond a reasonable doubt. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, understands how the Commonwealth’s Attorney builds cases and uses that insight to identify procedural and evidentiary issues.
Throughout the process, the team reviews the state’s evidence—bank statements, accounting records, and witness testimony—and consults with financial attorneys when necessary. They appear at every court hearing, from arraignment through trial if needed. The objective is to seek a dismissal, a reduction of charges, or a negotiated resolution that minimizes the long-term impact on the client’s record and professional reputation. Every case is evaluated on its own facts; the outcome depends on the specific circumstances and the applicable law.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., established the firm in 1997 and is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. He is a former prosecutor who draws on that experience to guide clients through criminal proceedings. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). His Of Counsel team brings extensive combined legal experience, and each member is engaged as Of Counsel—not as an employee or associate.
Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have handled 141 documented criminal results in Prince William County, including 118 dismissals or not-guilty findings and 19 reduced or amended charges. Results may vary. The team is available to discuss your situation; call (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against embezzlement charges?
A defense against embezzlement charges may challenge evidence, procedural compliance, and proof of fraudulent intent. An attorney examines whether the accused had lawful authority over the property and whether the state can prove the elements required by Va. Code § 18.2-111. Defenses can include a lack of intent to permanently deprive the owner, authorization for the handling of funds, or insufficient evidence. Experienced counsel also reviews pretrial procedures and may negotiate with the prosecutor to amend or dismiss charges when the facts support a favorable outcome.
What should I do if I am facing embezzlement charges in Prince William County?
If you are facing embezzlement charges, contact a criminal defense attorney immediately and do not discuss the case with anyone else. Preserve all relevant documents, emails, and financial records. Early involvement of counsel can help protect your rights at the initial appearance and any bond hearing. Your attorney can advise you on whether statements should be made to investigators and can begin evaluating the evidence right away. To schedule a consultation with Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., call (888) 437-7747.
What are the potential penalties for embezzlement under Virginia law?
The penalty for embezzlement follows Virginia’s larceny statute, with grand larceny as a felony and petit larceny as a misdemeanor. When the property value is $1,000 or more, grand larceny carries a sentence of one to twenty years in prison, or up to twelve months in jail at the jury’s discretion and a fine of up to $2,500. For amounts under $1,000, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to twelve months in jail and a $2,500 fine. In addition, a conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment and professional licensing.
Do I need a lawyer for an embezzlement charge in Prince William County?
Yes, legal representation is critical because an embezzlement conviction carries the possibility of incarceration and a lasting criminal record. Even if the amount involved is small, a petit larceny misdemeanor can still result in jail time. An attorney who appears regularly at the Prince William County General District Court and Circuit Court can evaluate the evidence, advise you on the trusted course of action, and work to protect your future. Attempting to handle the matter alone may lead to an outcome that could have been avoided with proper counsel.
Can embezzlement charges be reduced or dismissed?
Embezzlement charges may be reduced or dismissed depending on the strength of the evidence and the specific facts of the case. A prosecutor may agree to amend the charge to a lesser offense if the evidence of fraudulent intent is weak or if the defendant makes restitution. In some instances, a pretrial resolution may result in a dismissal. Each case is unique, and Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel assess all available options based on the circumstances. Results may vary.
Related Practice Areas:
Criminal Lawyer Fairfax County |
Criminal Lawyer Stafford County |
Criminal Lawyer Loudoun County |
Criminal Lawyer Arlington County
Virginia Primary Sources:
Virginia Code § 18.2-111 (Embezzlement) |
Prince William County General District Court |
Virginia Judicial System
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Results may vary.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.