Virginia Beach VA Embezzlement Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Embezzlement in Virginia Beach is a serious financial crime prosecuted under state and federal law. A Virginia Beach VA embezzlement lawyer from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides critical defense against charges that can carry felony penalties, prison time, and permanent damage to your reputation and career. Our firm has documented case results in Virginia Beach courts and offers 24/7 consultations.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Embezzlement Law and Penalties
Embezzlement in Virginia is a form of larceny defined under Va. Code § 18.2-111. It involves the fraudulent conversion of property, money, or assets entrusted to you by virtue of your employment or position. Unlike simple theft, embezzlement hinges on a breach of trust. The severity of the charge depends on the value of the property taken. If the value is $1,000 or more, it is grand larceny, a felony. If under $1,000, it is petit larceny, a misdemeanor. Federal embezzlement charges under statutes like 18 U.S.C. § 666 can also apply, especially if federal funds, agencies, or programs are involved, carrying even more severe penalties.
- Secure immediate legal counsel before speaking with investigators or employers.
- Your attorney will conduct a thorough review of financial records and employment agreements.
- We will challenge the prosecution’s evidence of fraudulent intent, a key element of the crime.
- Explore defenses such as lack of intent, permission, or mistaken accounting.
- Negotiate for case dismissal, reduction to a lesser offense, or a favorable plea agreement.
- Prepare for trial in Virginia Beach Circuit Court if a just resolution cannot be reached.
In Virginia Beach, embezzlement penalties range from a Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months in jail, $2,500 fine) for petit larceny to a Class 5 felony (1-10 years in prison) for grand larceny, with higher-value cases potentially facing federal indictment.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Value under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None (unless CDL) | Criminal record, restitution, loss of employment |
| Grand Larceny (Value $1,000+) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | None (unless CDL) | Felony record, restitution, professional license revocation, federal charges possible |
| Federal Embezzlement (18 U.S.C. § 666) | Federal Felony | Up to 10 years per count | Substantial fines | N/A | Federal prison, mandatory restitution, asset forfeiture |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with 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 white collar defense lawyers understand the intricate details of financial investigations. Mr. Sris’s background in accounting and information systems provides a unique advantage in dissecting complex financial records and digital evidence often central to embezzlement cases. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing serious financial crime allegations.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our approach to defending embezzlement charges is meticulous and proactive. We have secured favorable results for clients in Virginia Beach and across the Commonwealth. For instance, our team, including secondary attorney Mr. Sris, has successfully negotiated for the dismissal of charges where intent could not be proven, obtained reductions from felonies to misdemeanors, and structured restitution plans that satisfied courts and avoided incarceration.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 | Local: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Our Richmond location serves clients at Virginia Beach courts. We are accessible via I-64 and other major highways. Serving Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Virginia Beach Embezzlement Defense FAQs
What is the difference between embezzlement and theft?
Yes, there is a key legal 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 the central element that makes embezzlement a distinct financial crime.
Can I go to jail for a first-time embezzlement charge in Virginia Beach?
It depends on the value and circumstances. For a first-time petit larceny embezzlement (under $1,000), jail time is possible but not guaranteed. For grand larceny ($1,000+), the charge is a felony with a potential prison sentence of 1-10 years. An experienced financial crime lawyer can work to mitigate these penalties, often seeking alternatives like probation and restitution.
What should I do if I am accused of embezzlement at work?
1. Do not speak to your employer, HR, or law enforcement without an attorney. 2. Contact a Virginia Beach VA embezzlement lawyer immediately. 3. Preserve any documents or records related to your work and the allegations. 4. Let your attorney handle all communications to protect your rights and build a defense against the fraud charges.
Can embezzlement charges be federal?
Yes. If the alleged embezzlement involves funds from a federal program, agency, or organization that receives federal funds, you can face federal indictment under statutes like 18 U.S.C. § 666. Federal penalties are typically more severe than state charges, making early involvement of a lawyer with federal defense experience critical.
What are common defenses to embezzlement?
Common defenses include lack of fraudulent intent (you believed you were entitled to the funds), mistake or accident in accounting, authorization from your employer, insufficient evidence to prove the value or your control, and entrapment. A skilled fraud charges defense attorney will identify the strongest defense based on the specific facts of your case.
For more information on Virginia criminal law, visit the Virginia Courts website. To discuss your case with a Virginia Beach VA embezzlement lawyer, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation. We also assist with related matters like criminal defense in Henrico County and DUI defense in Virginia Beach. Learn more about our firm on our Virginia criminal lawyer hub page.