Embezzlement Lawyer in Albemarle County, VA — What Are Your Defense Options?
Embezzlement in Albemarle County is a serious white-collar crime prosecuted under Virginia law, often as larceny or fraud. If you are accused of misappropriation of funds, you need an experienced embezzlement lawyer in Albemarle County. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for clients facing these complex charges. Our team understands the financial and legal stakes involved.
Last verified: April 2026 | Albemarle County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Embezzlement Law and Penalties
Embezzlement in Virginia is typically charged under larceny statutes (Va. Code § 18.2-95 et seq.) or computer fraud laws when funds are taken via electronic means. The charge and penalties depend heavily on the value of the property or funds involved. Grand larceny, which includes embezzlement of $1,000 or more, is a felony. Petit larceny (under $1,000) is a misdemeanor. A conviction can result in prison, fines, and a permanent criminal record that affects future employment and professional licenses.
External Legal Resources
For the official Virginia statute on larceny, see Va. Code § 18.2-95 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information for Albemarle County can be found at the Albemarle County General District Court website.
Defending an Embezzlement Case in Albemarle County
Defending against embezzlement charges requires a detailed analysis of financial records, intent, and the relationship between the parties. In Albemarle County, these cases are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Albemarle County General District Court for preliminary matters and misdemeanors, with felonies moving to Circuit Court. A common defense challenges the prosecution’s ability to prove the specific intent to permanently deprive the owner of the funds, which is a required element of the crime.
- Secure Immediate Legal Counsel: Do not speak to investigators or employers without an attorney present. Contact a defense lawyer immediately.
- Preserve All Evidence: Gather and secure any documents, emails, or records related to the allegations. Do not alter or destroy anything.
- Case Analysis: Your attorney will conduct a thorough review of financial records, employment agreements, and authority levels to build your defense strategy.
- Negotiation or Trial: Based on the evidence, your lawyer will advise on seeking a favorable plea agreement or preparing for a trial to contest the charges.
Potential Penalties for Embezzlement in Virginia
In Albemarle County, embezzlement penalties are severe, ranging from misdemeanor charges for smaller amounts to felony convictions carrying years in prison.
| Charge / Value | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Criminal record, restitution |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000 – $100,000) | Felony (Class 6, 5, or 4) | 1 to 20 years* | Up to $100,000* | Felony record, restitution, loss of professional licenses |
| Grand Larceny (Over $100,000) | Class 3 Felony | 5 to 20 years | Up to $100,000 | Severe felony record, substantial restitution |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
*Penalties escalate based on the specific value and circumstances. A Class 6 felony carries 1-5 years, a Class 5 felony carries 1-10 years (or up to 12 months at jury discretion), and a Class 4 felony carries 2-10 years.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997, 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 white-collar crime allegations threaten your livelihood, reputation, and freedom. Our approach is direct and focused on protecting your rights from the initial investigation through 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
Our firm has a documented result in Albemarle County involving a reduced charge. In that case, a charge was amended to a favorable disposition for the client. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Our secondary attorney, Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting, provides strategic oversight on complex financial defense matters.
Contact Our Albemarle County Embezzlement Defense Lawyer
Our Richmond location serves clients in Albemarle County and the Charlottesville area. We are accessible from I-64 and Route 29. If you need an embezzlement lawyer near Albemarle County or Charlottesville, contact us 24/7.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only. We serve the Charlottesville area, Crozet, Earlysville, Ivy, and North Garden.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Albemarle County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Albemarle County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Embezzlement under $1,000 is typically charged as petit larceny, a Class 1 misdemeanor. Cases are heard at Albemarle County General District Court.
Can embezzlement charges be expunged in Virginia?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement only for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. A conviction for embezzlement, whether misdemeanor or felony, generally cannot be expunged from your record. This makes securing a dismissal or not guilty verdict critically important.
What is the difference between embezzlement and theft?
Embezzlement is a specific type of theft where the person accused had lawful possession or access to the funds or property initially, based on a position of trust (like an employee), and then wrongfully converted them for personal use. General theft or larceny involves taking property without any initial right to possession.
Do I need a lawyer for an embezzlement investigation?
Yes. If you are under investigation or accused of misappropriation of funds, you must consult a white collar crime defense lawyer in Albemarle County immediately. Do not speak to law enforcement, your employer, or internal investigators without an attorney. Early legal intervention is key to protecting your rights.
What defenses are available against embezzlement charges?
Common defenses include lack of intent (you believed you were authorized), consent from the owner, mistake of fact, insufficient evidence, or entrapment. Your attorney will analyze the specific facts, financial records, and your authority level to identify the strongest defense strategy for your case.
Internal Resources: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby jurisdictions like Henrico County. If you are facing other charges, learn about our DUI defense services in Albemarle County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your specific situation.