Embezzlement Lawyer Arlington County, VA

Facing an embezzlement charge in Arlington County, Virginia, can put your career, finances, and freedom at risk. Embezzlement is treated seriously under Virginia law, and a conviction can lead to incarceration, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you are under investigation or have been charged, you need a defense team that understands how these cases are prosecuted in Arlington County courts. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have represented clients in criminal matters throughout Virginia, including Arlington County, since 1997. We concentrate on building a thorough defense by examining the evidence, challenging flawed valuations, and negotiating with the Commonwealth’s Attorney when it serves the client’s interests. To request a consultation about your embezzlement case, call (888) 437-7747. Results may vary. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

Understanding Embezzlement Charges in Arlington County

Under Va. Code § 18.2-111, embezzlement occurs when a person wrongfully and fraudulently uses, disposes of, or conceals money or property that they received for another person or employer. Virginia law treats embezzlement as a form of larceny, and the severity of the charge depends on the value of the property taken. If the value is $1,000 or more, the offense is grand larceny, a felony punishable by one to twenty years in prison under § 18.2-95, or, at the discretion of a jury, up to twelve months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. If the value is less than $1,000, the charge is petit larceny, a Class 1 misdemeanor that carries up to twelve months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500 under § 18.2-96. These are the maximum penalties; actual sentences depend on the facts of the case, the defendant’s criminal history, and the quality of the defense presented.

In Arlington County, misdemeanor embezzlement cases are heard in the Arlington County General District Court at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd, Suite 2400, Arlington, VA 22201. Felony cases begin in General District Court for a preliminary hearing and then, if probable cause is found, proceed to the Arlington County Circuit Court for trial. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Arlington County prosecutes all embezzlement offenses. The court schedules hearings according to its calendar, and the timeline varies. Understanding this two-tier court structure is critical because it affects discovery, plea negotiations, and trial strategy. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are familiar with the local procedures and the expectations of the Arlington County courts.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Approach Embezzlement Defense

Defending against an embezzlement charge requires a close examination of the financial records, the nature of the accused’s relationship to the property, and any procedural missteps by investigators. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel begin by scrutinizing the evidence the Commonwealth intends to rely on—bank statements, accounting logs, business records—and identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Embezzlement charges often hinge on whether the accused acted with criminal intent; a misunderstanding of authorization or a good-faith belief that the transaction was proper may undercut the charge. We work with the client to gather documentation that supports a defense of honest intent, authorization, or repayment.

When the evidence is strong, our team often engages the prosecutor early to explore alternatives. In Virginia, while plea bargaining is not conducted before the judge, the Commonwealth’s Attorney may agree to reduce or amend charges under Va. Sup. Ct. R. 3A:8. For example, a felony embezzlement charge might be reduced to a misdemeanor if the circumstances warrant and the defendant has no prior record. Our goal is to achieve the most favorable resolution possible under the facts of the case, whether that means a dismissal, a reduction in charges, or a vigorous trial defense. Every case is different, and we tailor the approach accordingly.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced law since 1997. A former prosecutor, he brings a firsthand understanding of how criminal cases are built and prosecuted. He is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York, and he has managed a multi-state practice for nearly three decades. His experience includes handling criminal matters at every stage, from investigation through trial. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).

Alongside Mr. Sris, the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys contribute decades of collective experience in criminal defense. They include lawyers with backgrounds in law enforcement and former prosecution, giving the team insight into both sides of a criminal case. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have represented clients in Arlington County courts and throughout Virginia. They work collaboratively to examine the evidence, develop defense strategies, and negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney when it best serves the client. Results may vary. past outcomes do not guarantee a similar result.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is embezzlement under Virginia law?

Embezzlement is the fraudulent use or concealment of money or property that a person lawfully received for another, and it is treated as larceny under Va. Code § 18.2-111. Unlike theft, embezzlement involves a breach of trust because the accused originally had rightful possession of the property. The value of the property determines whether the charge is a felony or a misdemeanor. For example, if a bookkeeper diverts company funds, that may constitute embezzlement. An experienced attorney can evaluate whether the evidence supports the charge or whether an alternative explanation exists.

What are the potential penalties for embezzlement in Arlington County?

Penalties depend on the value taken: if $1,000 or more, it is grand larceny, a felony with up to 20 years in prison or, at a jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine; if under $1,000, it is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A conviction also creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, professional licensing, and housing. Courts may consider restitution when determining a sentence. Because these consequences are severe, having an experienced Arlington County embezzlement lawyer on your side is important.

Can embezzlement charges be reduced or dismissed?

Yes, embezzlement charges in Virginia may be reduced or dismissed if the evidence is weak, the valuation is challenged, or the Commonwealth agrees to amend the charge. For example, a felony embezzlement might be reduced to a misdemeanor. A skilled defense may also lead to a nolle prosequi (a decision not to prosecute) or a deferred disposition under certain first-offender programs. The outcome depends on the facts of the case and the defense strategy. Early intervention by an attorney can make a decisive difference.

Do I need a lawyer for an embezzlement charge in Arlington County?

While you are not legally required to have a lawyer, representing yourself is risky because embezzlement charges can result in incarceration, fines, and a lasting criminal record. An attorney can assess the strength of the Commonwealth’s evidence, identify procedural errors, negotiate with the prosecutor, and advocate for a reduced charge or lighter sentence. The Arlington County General District Court and Circuit Court have specific procedures that an experienced lawyer understands. For anyone facing a felony or even a misdemeanor embezzlement charge, professional legal representation is strongly advisable.

How does the court process work for embezzlement cases in Arlington County?

Misdemeanor embezzlement cases are tried in Arlington County General District Court, while felony cases start with a preliminary hearing there and, if probable cause is found, proceed to Arlington County Circuit Court for trial. The process begins with an arraignment, then discovery, pre-trial motions, and finally a trial or plea. The timeline varies depending on the court’s docket and the complexity of the financial evidence. A defendant may have the right to a jury trial in Circuit Court. Understanding these stages is critical for making informed decisions, and an attorney can guide you through each step.

What should I do if I am under investigation for embezzlement?

If you are under investigation, do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney present, and preserve any documents or records that may be relevant. Even before charges are filed, you have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you. Contact an embezzlement defense lawyer in Arlington County as soon as possible to protect your rights and begin building a defense. Early legal advice can influence whether charges are filed and, if so, what they are. Call (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation with Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel.

Additional resources: Read the full text of Va. Code § 18.2-111 and learn more about the Arlington County General District Court.

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results may vary.

Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., by appointment. 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room 719, Arlington, VA 22209. (888) 437-7747.

Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.