Embezzlement Lawyer Alexandria, VA
An embezzlement charge in Alexandria, Virginia, carries serious consequences—incarceration, fines, restitution, and a permanent criminal record. Embezzlement, defined by Va. Code § 18.2-111, occurs when a person wrongfully and fraudulently uses, disposes of, conceals, or takes money or property that they have received for another, such as an employer, principal, or bailee. Because Virginia law treats embezzlement as larceny, the offense is graded by the value of the property involved—ranging from a Class 1 misdemeanor for amounts under $1,000 to a felony carrying years of imprisonment when the amount reaches the grand-larceny threshold. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Practices in criminal defense and represents individuals facing embezzlement allegations in Alexandria and throughout Northern Virginia. Mr. Sris, the firm’s Owner and Founder, is a former prosecutor whose background gives him firsthand insight into how the prosecution builds its case. His Of Counsel team brings additional experience in criminal and civil litigation. To request a consultation, call (888) 437‑7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Embezzlement Means in Alexandria
Embezzlement cases in Alexandria are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Misdemeanor charges—typically when the value of the property is less than $1,000—are heard in the Alexandria General District Court. Felony charges, where the value is $1,000 or more, proceed to the Alexandria Circuit Court. Because embezzlement is punished as larceny under Va. Code § 18.2-111, the classification and potential sentence follow the same statutory scheme as theft: grand larceny for $1,000 or more (a felony, one to twenty years in prison), and petit larceny for less than $1,000 (a Class 1 misdemeanor, up to twelve months in jail and a $2,500 fine). A conviction may also require restitution to the victim and create a criminal record that can affect employment, professional licenses, and other rights long after the case ends.
Our Arlington location serves clients at the Alexandria courts. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel appear regularly in the Alexandria General District Court and the Alexandria Circuit Court, and they understand the local procedures, the expectations of the judges, and the prosecutorial approach of the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office. The firm works to protect clients’ interests at every stage—from the initial investigation through plea negotiations, trial, and, if needed, post-conviction relief.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Embezzlement Cases
When you work with Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel, the first step is a thorough review of the facts and evidence. Embezzlement cases often turn on financial records, accounting practices, and the nature of the defendant’s relationship to the property or funds at issue. The firm examines whether the government can prove each element beyond a reasonable doubt—particularly the alleged fraudulent intent and the alleged misuse of property that the defendant received for another.
The defense strategy is shaped by the specific circumstances of the case. In many situations, early engagement with the prosecutor can lead to amended charges, a deferred disposition, or an agreement that avoids the most severe consequences. If the case proceeds to trial, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are prepared to challenge the evidence, cross‑examine witnesses, and present the client’s side. The timeline for an embezzlement case depends on the court’s calendar and the complexity of the financial records, but the firm works to move the matter toward resolution while protecting the client’s rights at every step.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded the firm in 1997 and is a former prosecutor. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. His prosecutorial background provides valuable understanding of how the government builds an embezzlement case. He also 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 additional experience in criminal defense and civil litigation. Together, they represent clients in embezzlement and other white‑collar matters in Alexandria and across Virginia. The firm’s collective experience allows it to address the financial and documentary complexities that embezzlement cases present, while also focusing on the personal impact a charge has on the client’s career and reputation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is embezzlement under Virginia law?
Embezzlement in Virginia is defined by Va. Code § 18.2-111 as the wrongful and fraudulent use, disposal, concealment, or taking of money or property that a person has received for another, such as an employer, principal, or bailee. The statute treats embezzlement as larceny, so the offense is classified—and punished—according to the value of the property involved. The prosecution must prove that the defendant intentionally misused property entrusted to them, and that they acted with fraudulent intent. Common scenarios include an employee diverting company funds, a trustee misappropriating assets, or a financial officer altering records to conceal personal use.
How does a lawyer defend against embezzlement charges?
An experienced defense attorney may challenge the evidence, scrutinize financial records, and assess whether the prosecution can prove fraudulent intent beyond a reasonable doubt. Defenses can include lack of intent, authorization to use the funds, or a good‑faith belief that the use was proper. Often, the defense involves forensic accounting analysis to show that the alleged misuse is not what it appears. Early involvement allows counsel to negotiate with the prosecutor before formal charges are filed, seek amended charges, or explore deferred‑disposition programs where available. Every case is unique, and the defense approach is tailored to the specific facts.
What are the penalties for embezzlement in Alexandria?
Because embezzlement is punished as larceny, the penalty depends on the value of the property taken. If the value is $1,000 or more, the offense is grand larceny—a felony that can result in imprisonment of one to twenty years. If the value is less than $1,000, the offense is petit larceny, a Class 1 misdemeanor that carries up to twelve months in jail and a $2,500 fine. The court may also order restitution to the victim. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, professional licenses, and other rights.
Do I need a lawyer if I am accused of embezzlement in Alexandria?
Yes—even a misdemeanor charge can lead to jail time and a criminal record with long‑term consequences. An attorney can explain the charges, protect your rights, and develop a strategy to seek favorable outcomes. A lawyer can also intervene early, sometimes before charges are formally filed, to engage with the prosecutor or law enforcement. The court process and the financial evidence involved make self‑representation particularly risky. Consulting an experienced criminal defense attorney is a critical first step.
What should I do if I am facing embezzlement charges in Alexandria?
Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all relevant documents, emails, and financial records—both paper and electronic. Avoid making any statements to law enforcement or to your employer that could be used against you. The statute of limitations and court deadlines in Virginia require prompt action, and an attorney can advise you on the steps that are most appropriate in your specific situation.
Where are embezzlement cases heard in Alexandria?
Misdemeanor embezzlement cases are heard in the Alexandria General District Court; felony cases proceed to the Alexandria Circuit Court. Both courts are located in the Alexandria courthouse complex at 520 King Street. The firm’s Arlington location regularly serves clients at these courts, and Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are familiar with the local judges, prosecutors, and courtroom procedures.
Related practice areas:
Criminal defense lawyer in Fairfax County •
Criminal defense lawyer in Fairfax City •
Criminal defense lawyer in Falls Church City •
Criminal defense lawyer in Prince William County •
Criminal defense lawyer in Manassas City
Virginia resources:
Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) •
Virginia Courts
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