Embezzlement Lawyer Fairfax — Defending Against Misappropriation of Funds Charges
Embezzlement in Fairfax County is a serious white-collar crime prosecuted under Virginia law. If you are accused of misappropriating funds, you need an experienced embezzlement lawyer Fairfax. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results defending clients in Fairfax County General District and Circuit Courts. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how these complex financial cases are built.
Virginia Embezzlement Law and Penalties
Embezzlement in Virginia is defined as the fraudulent conversion or misappropriation of property, money, or assets entrusted to you. It is prosecuted under various statutes depending on the value and nature of the property, primarily Va. Code § 18.2-111. The severity of the charge hinges on the value of the misappropriated funds.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Penalties for Embezzlement in Fairfax
In Fairfax County, embezzlement penalties range from a Class 1 misdemeanor to a felony, with potential prison time, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
| Value of Funds | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under $1,000 | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Restitution, criminal record |
| $1,000 or more | Grand Larceny (Felony) | 1 to 20 years* | At court’s discretion | Restitution, felony record, loss of professional licenses |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
*Sentencing for felony larceny can vary; a Class 6 felony carries 1-5 years, while a Class 5 felony carries 1-10 years (or up to 12 months at jury discretion).
Our Defense Approach for Embezzlement Cases
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex financial cases. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In Fairfax County, we have secured documented results for clients facing serious financial allegations. Our defense strategy is built on a meticulous review of financial records, witness statements, and the intent element required for conviction.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
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
Our team also includes Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, providing a unique advantage in dissecting complex financial evidence.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable outcomes in Fairfax County courts. While every case is unique, our approach focuses on thorough case preparation and strategic negotiation. We examine every detail, from transaction records to the circumstances of the alleged misappropriation of funds.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Fairfax County Court Process
Embezzlement cases in Fairfax County typically begin with an investigation, often by law enforcement or an employer. Misdemeanor charges are heard at the Fairfax County General District Court (4110 Chain Bridge Road). Felony charges start with a preliminary hearing there before moving to Fairfax County Circuit Court for trial.
- Investigation & Arrest: Law enforcement or an internal audit uncovers discrepancies, skilled to an investigation and potential arrest.
- Initial Court Appearance: You will be arraigned in General District Court, where charges are formally read, and bond conditions are set.
- Case Review & Discovery: Your defense attorney obtains all evidence from the prosecution, including financial records, reports, and witness statements.
- Preliminary Hearing (Felonies): For felony charges, a hearing is held in GDC to determine if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiation: Your lawyer files motions to challenge evidence and engages in plea negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial or Resolution: The case proceeds to a bench or jury trial, or is resolved through a negotiated plea agreement.
Contact Our Fairfax Embezzlement Defense Lawyers
Our Fairfax location serves clients throughout Northern Virginia. We are accessible for those seeking a dedicated white collar crime defense lawyer Fairfax.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
Phones 24/7/365. Office by appointment only.
We serve Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area.
FAQs: Embezzlement Defense in Fairfax, VA
What is the difference between embezzlement and theft in Virginia?
Yes, there is a key difference. Theft involves taking property without permission. Embezzlement involves the fraudulent conversion of property that was lawfully entrusted to you. The breach of trust is a central element of embezzlement charges under Va. Code § 18.2-111.
Can I go to jail for a first-time embezzlement charge in Fairfax?
It depends on the value of the funds and the circumstances. For amounts under $1,000 (a misdemeanor), jail is possible but not guaranteed. For felony amounts, incarceration is a significant risk. An experienced embezzlement lawyer Fairfax can work to mitigate penalties, potentially seeking alternatives like restitution and probation.
What are common defenses to misappropriation of funds charges?
Common defenses include lack of fraudulent intent (you believed you were entitled to the funds), mistake or accident, insufficient evidence, duress, or entrapment. A thorough investigation by your defense team is essential to identify and prove the applicable defense strategy.
Will I have to pay restitution if convicted of embezzlement?
Yes, almost certainly. Virginia courts routinely order restitution to the victim as part of the sentence in embezzlement convictions. This is separate from any fines paid to the court and is meant to make the victim financially whole.
How long does an embezzlement case take in Fairfax County?
A misdemeanor case in General District Court may be resolved in a few months. A felony case, which moves to Circuit Court, can take 6 months to over a year, depending on complexity, evidence volume, and court scheduling.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing related charges, our firm also provides defense for other serious matters: Federal Criminal Lawyer Fairfax County, Business Lawyer Fairfax County, and Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current legal guidance.