Embezzlement Lawyer Greene County — Defending Against Financial Crime Charges
Embezzlement in Greene County is a serious white-collar crime prosecuted under Virginia law, often as larceny or fraud. If you are accused of misappropriation of funds, the consequences can include felony charges, prison time, and a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for clients facing these complex charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Greene County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Embezzlement Law and Defenses
Embezzlement in Virginia is typically prosecuted under statutes for larceny (Va. Code § 18.2-95 for grand larceny, § 18.2-96 for petit larceny) or obtaining money by false pretenses (§ 18.2-178). The key element is the unlawful taking of property entrusted to you. Defenses often challenge the intent to permanently deprive the owner, claim a right to the property, or argue a lack of fraudulent intent. The specific charges and penalties depend heavily on the value of the property involved.
For official statute text, refer to the Virginia larceny statutes (law.lis.virginia.gov). Court procedures for Greene County are handled at the Greene County General District Court website (vacourts.gov).
- Secure immediate legal counsel before speaking with investigators or employers.
- Gather and preserve all relevant financial documents, emails, and employment contracts.
- Your attorney will analyze the prosecution’s evidence for weaknesses in proving intent or value.
- We will explore all defense avenues, which may include negotiation for reduced charges or case dismissal.
Potential Penalties for Embezzlement in Virginia
In Greene County, embezzlement penalties are based on the value of the property, ranging from a misdemeanor to a felony with years in prison.
| Value / Charge | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under $1,000 (Petit Larceny) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Criminal record, restitution |
| $1,000 to $100,000 (Grand Larceny) | Felony (Class 6 or 5) | 1 to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | Felony record, significant restitution |
| Over $100,000 | Felony (Class 3 or higher) | 5 to 20 years+ | Court discretion | Major felony, substantial restitution |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in White-Collar and Financial Crime Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris’s background in accounting and information systems provides a unique advantage in dissecting complex financial evidence, a critical skill for any embezzlement lawyer Greene County clients trust. Our team, including former Maryland prosecutor Kristen Fisher, understands how these cases are built from the inside.
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 documented results in Greene County show a commitment to favorable outcomes. We have secured dismissals and not-guilty verdicts for clients. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. In complex financial cases, a meticulous defense built on evidence review and strategic negotiation is essential. Our secondary attorney on this matter, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor with a background in accounting who personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, demonstrating his deep legal acumen.
Contact Our Greene County Embezzlement Defense Lawyers
Our Fairfax location serves clients in Greene County. We are accessible via Route 29 and Route 33, serving communities like Stanardsville and Ruckersville. Embezzlement lawyer near Greene County available for consultation.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions: Embezzlement Defense
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, while embezzlement involves unlawfully converting property that was lawfully entrusted to you. Both can be charged as larceny under Virginia law, but the prosecution must prove different elements regarding possession and intent.
Can I go to jail for a first-time embezzlement charge in Greene County?
Yes. Even a first offense classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor (property under $1,000) carries a potential jail sentence of up to 12 months. Felony charges for higher amounts carry mandatory prison time. An experienced misappropriation of funds defense lawyer Greene County can work to mitigate these severe penalties.
What are common defenses to an embezzlement charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to steal (e.g., you believed you were entitled to the funds), consent from the owner, insufficient evidence to prove the value or the act, or mistaken identity. A thorough investigation is needed to identify the strongest defense strategy for your specific situation.
Is embezzlement a state or federal crime?
It can be both. Most cases are prosecuted under state law in Virginia courts like Greene County General District or Circuit Court. However, if the crime involves federal funds, crosses state lines, or involves a federally insured bank, it may be prosecuted as a federal crime with typically harsher penalties.
Why do I need a specialized lawyer for an embezzlement charge?
Embezzlement cases are evidence-intensive, often involving complex financial records. A specialized white collar crime defense lawyer Greene County has the experience to audit these records, challenge forensic accounting, understand nuanced intent defenses, and negotiate with prosecutors who specialize in financial crimes.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Fairfax County. If you are facing other charges, we are also a DUI defense lawyer serving Greene County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.