Embezzlement Lawyer Virginia Beach — Defending Against Financial Crime Charges
Embezzlement in Virginia Beach is a serious white-collar crime prosecuted under Virginia and federal law, carrying severe penalties including prison and fines. If you are accused of misappropriation of funds, securing an experienced embezzlement lawyer Virginia Beach is critical. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense, drawing on our deep understanding of financial investigations and courtroom procedures.
Virginia Embezzlement Law and Penalties
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Embezzlement, often referred to as misappropriation of funds, is defined under Virginia law as the fraudulent conversion of property lawfully received for the benefit of another. Unlike simple theft, it involves a breach of trust. The specific charges and penalties depend heavily on the value of the property involved. Virginia Code § 18.2-111 covers embezzlement by employees, officers, and other fiduciaries. For a full understanding of the statute, you can review the official Virginia General Assembly text for § 18.2-111.
External Legal Resources
For official court information, visit the Virginia Beach General District Court website.
Defending Embezzlement Charges in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach prosecutors and federal authorities in the Eastern District of Virginia aggressively pursue financial crimes. A key local procedural fact is that many embezzlement cases begin with an internal audit or a report to the Virginia Beach Police Department’s Financial Crimes Unit before formal charges are filed. Early intervention by a skilled embezzlement lawyer Virginia Beach can be key.
- Secure Immediate Legal Counsel: Do not speak to employers, law enforcement, or investigators without an attorney present.
- Case Assessment: Your lawyer will review all evidence, including financial records, employment contracts, and audit reports to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Investigation & Negotiation: A defense investigation may uncover lack of intent, authorization for the use of funds, or accounting errors. Your attorney will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for Virginia Beach.
- Trial Preparation: If a plea agreement is not in your best interest, your lawyer will prepare a vigorous defense for trial in Virginia Beach General District or Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Embezzlement in Virginia
In Virginia Beach, embezzlement penalties are determined by the value of the property converted, ranging from a misdemeanor to a felony with decades in prison.
| Value of Property | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under $1,000 | Petit Larceny (Misdemeanor) | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Criminal record, restitution |
| $1,000 to $100,000 | Grand Larceny (Felony) | 1 to 20 years | Up to $2,500 | Felony record, restitution, loss of professional licenses |
| Over $100,000 | Grand Larceny (Felony) | Potential for 20-year maximum | Substantial fines | Severe felony record, significant restitution, asset forfeiture |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in 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+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand that embezzlement and misappropriation of funds charges are not just legal problems but can destroy reputations and careers. Our defense strategy is built on meticulous review of financial evidence, challenging the prosecution’s proof of criminal intent, and exploring all avenues for case resolution.
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
While specific results are confidential, our approach in cases involving financial allegations focuses on achieving the best possible outcome, whether through negotiation, pre-trial motion, or trial. In one instance, our defense led to the reduction of a felony embezzlement charge to a misdemeanor with no jail time. In another, we successfully argued for the return of seized assets. Firm founder Mr. Sris provides strategic oversight on complex financial cases, ensuring every defense is thorough.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Virginia Beach Embezzlement Defense Lawyer Near Me
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at Virginia Beach courts. We are accessible via I-264, I-64, and Route 44. We serve Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Embezzlement Defense
What is the difference between theft and embezzlement in Virginia?
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 element often leads to more severe scrutiny and penalties.
Can I go to jail for a first-time embezzlement charge in Virginia Beach?
It depends on the value involved. For amounts under $1,000, jail is possible but not mandatory. For felony amounts over $1,000, incarceration is a real risk. An experienced white collar crime defense lawyer Virginia Beach can work to mitigate this, often by negotiating for alternatives like probation, restitution, and suspended sentences.
What should I do if my employer accuses me of embezzlement?
Do not resign or sign anything without legal advice. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately contact a criminal defense attorney. Anything you say to your employer can be used against you in a criminal investigation.
Can embezzlement charges be federal?
Yes. If the alleged crime involves federal funds, crosses state lines, affects interstate commerce, or involves a federally insured bank, you could face federal embezzlement charges under statutes like 18 U.S.C. § 666 or § 656, prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia.
What defenses are available against embezzlement charges?
Common defenses include lack of fraudulent intent (you believed you were authorized), mistake or accounting error, duress, entrapment, and insufficiency of evidence. Your attorney will identify the strongest defense based on the specific facts of your case.
Internal Resources: For related legal help, see our pages on Virginia Beach criminal defense and Virginia federal criminal defense. You can also learn about defense in Henrico County.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.