Embezzlement Lawyer Alexandria, VA
Under Va. Code § 18.2-111, embezzlement is treated as larceny in Virginia. If you are facing an embezzlement charge in Alexandria—whether the accused wrongful taking of money, property, or financial assets from an employer, a business partner, or a trust—the consequences can be serious. Depending on the value involved, the charge may be a misdemeanor or a felony, and a conviction can bring incarceration, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represent clients charged with embezzlement at the Alexandria General District Court and Alexandria Circuit Court, located at 520 King Street. With a practice founded in 1997, the firm brings extensive experience defending individuals in embezzlement and other criminal matters. To request a consultation, call (888) 437-7747.
What Embezzlement Means in Alexandria, Virginia
Embezzlement is a specific theft offense defined by Va. Code § 18.2-111. It occurs when a person who has been entrusted with another person’s or entity’s money or property wrongfully and fraudulently converts it for their own use. In Virginia, embezzlement is punished under the same grading scheme as larceny. The value of the property taken is critical: if the amount is less than $1,000, the charge is typically petit larceny, a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. If the amount is $1,000 or more, the charge is grand larceny, a felony that can result in one to 20 years in prison. A conviction can also require restitution to the victim and create long‑term consequences for employment, professional licensing, and immigration status.
Alexandria embezzlement cases are prosecuted by the Alexandria Commonwealth’s Attorney. Misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings are heard at the Alexandria General District Court (520 King Street, 2nd Floor), while felony trials proceed at the Alexandria Circuit Court. For a first‑time embezzlement offense where the facts allow, Virginia law may offer a deferred disposition under § 19.2‑303.2, under which a defendant placed on probation can see the charge dismissed after successful completion of court‑imposed terms. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are familiar with these local procedures and work to pursue the most favorable resolution available under the law.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Embezzlement Cases
Every embezzlement case begins with a thorough review of the financial records, employment documents, and other evidence. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, brings insight into how the Commonwealth’s Attorney builds its case. Together with experienced Of Counsel, the firm identifies weaknesses in the evidence, evaluates whether the property was actually entrusted to the accused, and examines whether all elements under § 18.2‑111 are provable.
In many cases the team negotiates with prosecutors to seek a charge reduction, such as an amendment from felony grand larceny to misdemeanor petit larceny, or works to secure a deferred disposition for eligible first‑time offenses. If a trial is necessary, the firm prepares a rigorous defense, challenging witness testimony, forensic accounting, and any procedural missteps. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel also advise on the collateral consequences of a conviction, helping clients understand the full picture before making decisions about their case. Results may vary.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris is the Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., which he established in 1997. As a former prosecutor, he understands criminal prosecution from both sides of the courtroom. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). He is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York, and he keeps his personal caseload manageable to stay deeply involved in each matter.
Alongside Mr. Sris, Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience to embezzlement and other criminal defense cases. The firm’s Arlington location serves Alexandria and the surrounding communities, with consultations available by appointment. To speak with Mr. Sris or his team, call (888) 437-7747.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for embezzlement in Virginia?
Embezzlement penalties in Virginia depend on the value of the property taken. If the value is under $1,000, the offense is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. If the value is $1,000 or more, it is graded as grand larceny, a felony with a potential sentence of one to 20 years in prison. The court also may order full restitution. A conviction will create a permanent criminal record unless later expunged under very limited circumstances (such as a dismissal or acquittal, under Va. Code § 19.2‑392.2). Because the financial threshold and the specific facts matter, speaking with an experienced attorney early is critical.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against embezzlement charges?
An embezzlement defense often challenges whether the accused acted with fraudulent intent, whether a fiduciary relationship existed, and whether the property was actually embezzled. A defense attorney will scrutinize the financial records, employment policies, and any written agreements. The attorney may argue that the accused lacked the required intent to permanently deprive the owner of the property, that the property was taken under a claim of right, or that a mistake in accounting occurred. In some cases, the defense can seek to have charges reduced or dismissed through negotiation with the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Each case is unique, and the strategy depends on a full review of the evidence.
Can embezzlement charges be dropped or reduced in Alexandria?
Yes, it is possible for embezzlement charges to be reduced or dismissed in Alexandria, often through negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney or after the successful completion of a deferred disposition program. Under Va. Code § 19.2‑303.2, a first‑time offender may be placed on probation with conditions; if the defendant complies, the court can dismiss the charge. Additionally, a misdemeanor embezzlement charge can sometimes be amended to a lesser offense. An attorney who knows the Alexandria courts and prosecutorial practices can present mitigating factors—such as restitution already made, lack of prior record, or documented accounting errors—to support a favorable resolution.
How does the court process work for an embezzlement case in Alexandria?
An embezzlement case in Alexandria begins with an arrest or summons, followed by an arraignment at the Alexandria General District Court. If the charge is a misdemeanor, the trial is held at the General District Court. For felony charges, the General District Court holds a preliminary hearing to determine whether there is probable cause; if so, the case is certified to the Alexandria Circuit Court for trial. At the Circuit Court, the case may proceed to a jury trial or a negotiated resolution. Throughout the process, the defense can file motions to suppress evidence, challenge the admissibility of financial records, and engage in plea discussions.
Do I need a lawyer for an embezzlement charge in Alexandria?
Yes, anyone facing an embezzlement charge in Alexandria should consult a criminal defense lawyer as early as possible. Even a misdemeanor embezzlement conviction can result in jail time, significant fines, a permanent record, and lasting damage to your career and reputation. An experienced attorney can assess the strength of the prosecution’s case, advise on whether a deferred disposition is available, and advocate for favorable outcomes. Contact Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your situation.
Related criminal defense pages: Fairfax County criminal defense lawyer | Prince William County criminal defense lawyer | Manassas criminal defense lawyer | Falls Church criminal defense lawyer.
Official Virginia resources: Va. Code § 18.2‑111 (Embezzlement) | Alexandria Circuit Court | Alexandria General District Court.
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