Embezzlement Lawyer in Arlington, Virginia — Defending Against Fraud Charges
Embezzlement in Arlington, Virginia, is a serious white-collar crime prosecuted under both state and federal law, carrying severe penalties. If you are under investigation or charged, you need an experienced embezzlement lawyer Arlington Virginia. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for financial crime allegations. Our firm has documented results in Arlington County courts. Contact us 24/7 for a consultation by appointment.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Embezzlement Law and Penalties
Embezzlement is defined as the fraudulent appropriation of property by a person to whom it has been entrusted. In Virginia, embezzlement charges are typically brought under larceny statutes (Va. Code § 18.2-95 for grand larceny, § 18.2-96 for petit larceny) or specific embezzlement provisions. The classification depends on the value of the property taken. Grand larceny (value of $1,000 or more) is a felony. Petit larceny (value under $1,000) is a misdemeanor. Federal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 656 (bank embezzlement) or § 666 (theft concerning programs receiving federal funds) may also apply, especially if federal funds or financial institutions are involved.
In Arlington, embezzlement penalties range from up to 12 months in jail for a misdemeanor to 1-20 years in prison for a felony, plus substantial fines and restitution.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Embezzlement under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Restitution, permanent criminal record |
| Grand Larceny (Embezzlement $1,000+) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-20 years | Up to $2,500 (Class 6) or discretionary | N/A | Restitution, felony record, loss of professional licenses |
| Federal Bank Embezzlement (18 U.S.C. § 656) | Federal Felony | Up to 30 years | Up to $1,000,000 | N/A | Federal prison, severe fines, asset forfeiture |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
External Legal Resources
For the official Virginia statutes on larceny and embezzlement, visit the Virginia General Assembly website (Va. Code § 18.2-95). For information on the Arlington County court where these cases are heard, see the Arlington County General District Court website.
Defending Embezzlement Charges in Arlington County
An effective defense against embezzlement charges requires a detailed understanding of financial records and intent. A common defense is lack of fraudulent intent—arguing the accused believed they had a right to the funds or that it was a misunderstanding. Other defenses include insufficient evidence, mistaken identity, or procedural errors in the investigation. In Arlington County General District Court (for misdemeanors) and Circuit Court (for felonies), prosecutors must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt. Early intervention by a skilled fraud attorney is critical to challenge the prosecution’s case before formal charges are filed.
- Initial Consultation & Case Assessment: Contact an embezzlement lawyer immediately. We review all allegations, warrants, and evidence with you.
- Investigation & Evidence Review: Our team, including Of Counsel attorney Bryan Block with his investigative background, scrutinizes financial documents, emails, and witness statements.
- Pre-Charge Negotiation: If possible, we engage with investigators or prosecutors to present mitigating evidence and seek to avoid formal charges.
- Formal Defense & Motions: If charged, we file motions to suppress evidence, challenge the sufficiency of the indictment, or seek discovery of all prosecution materials.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: We prepare for trial while simultaneously negotiating for reduced charges or alternative resolutions, such as restitution agreements or first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2.
- Sentencing & Appeal: If convicted, we advocate for minimal penalties and explore all appellate options.
Our Firm’s Experience in Financial Crime Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We have handled over firm-wide 4,739 cases with a documented favorable outcome rate. Our approach to white-collar defense is thorough and detail-oriented. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, has a background in accounting and information systems, providing a unique advantage in dissecting complex financial evidence. This foundation is crucial for building a strong defense against embezzlement and other fraud charges.
Documented Case Results
Our firm has a record of achieving positive results for clients facing criminal charges in Arlington County. While every case is unique, our documented outcomes in Arlington include dismissals and favorable reductions. For example, we have secured dismissals (nolle prosequi) for charges such as destruction of property and fare evasion in Arlington County General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Arlington Location — 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719, Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only.
Our Arlington location serves clients at the Arlington County courts. We represent individuals in Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington. As an experienced financial crime lawyer near Arlington, we offer 24/7 phone consultations. Meetings are by appointment only.
Embezzlement Defense FAQs
What is the difference between state and federal embezzlement charges?
It depends on the circumstances. State charges in Virginia apply to theft from private employers or individuals. Federal embezzlement charges apply when the property belongs to the U.S. government, a financial institution, or an organization receiving federal funds. Federal penalties are typically more severe.
Can I go to jail for a first-time embezzlement offense in Virginia?
Yes. Even a first-time Class 1 misdemeanor embezzlement charge in Arlington carries a potential sentence of up to 12 months in jail. Felony charges carry prison time. An experienced fraud charges defense lawyer can work to mitigate these penalties.
What should I do if I am under investigation for embezzlement?
Immediately contact an embezzlement lawyer Arlington Virginia. Do not speak to investigators or your employer without legal counsel. An attorney can advise you on your rights and may intervene before formal charges are filed.
What defenses are available against embezzlement charges?
Common defenses include lack of intent to defraud, claim of right (belief you were entitled to the funds), insufficient evidence, mistaken identity, or duress. A white collar defense lawyer will analyze the specific facts to build the strongest defense strategy.
Can an embezzlement charge be expunged in Virginia?
It depends on the outcome. If charges are dismissed or you are found not guilty, you may petition for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. A conviction for embezzlement generally cannot be expunged from your record.
Internal Resources
For more information on criminal defense in Virginia, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. If you are facing related charges, consider reading about DUI defense in Arlington. For defense in a nearby jurisdiction, see our page for an Alexandria criminal defense lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Consult an attorney for current legal advice.
For the full picture beyond Arlington County, our page on embezzlement cases in Virginia covers the process end to end.