Embezzlement Lawyer Alexandria — What Are Your Defense Options?
Embezzlement in Alexandria is a serious white-collar crime prosecuted under Virginia law, often as larceny or fraud. An embezzlement lawyer Alexandria from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for charges involving misappropriation of funds. Our firm has handled complex financial cases in Alexandria General District and Circuit Courts. Contact us 24/7 for a case review.
Virginia Embezzlement Law and Penalties
Embezzlement in Virginia is typically prosecuted under larceny statutes (Va. Code § 18.2-95 et seq.) or computer fraud statutes if funds were accessed electronically. The crime involves the fraudulent conversion of property or funds entrusted to someone by virtue of their employment or position. The value of the property determines the charge: under $1,000 is petit larceny (Class 1 misdemeanor); $1,000 or more is grand larceny (felony).
Last verified: April 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official Virginia statute on larceny, see Va. Code § 18.2-95 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information for Alexandria cases is available at the Alexandria General District Court website.
Defending an Embezzlement Case in Alexandria
An Alexandria embezzlement case often involves complex financial records. Prosecutors from the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office must prove you intentionally converted entrusted funds for personal use. A common local procedural fact is that these cases frequently involve forensic accounting. The key is challenging the intent element and the valuation of the alleged loss.
- Secure Immediate Legal Counsel: Do not speak to employers or investigators without an attorney present. Statements can be misconstrued.
- Preserve All Records: Gather any documents, emails, or records related to your job duties and the funds in question.
- Case Analysis: Your attorney will review the prosecution’s evidence to assess the strength of their case on intent and valuation.
- Develop a Defense Strategy: This may involve arguing lack of intent, mistake, authorization, or challenging the alleged amount.
- Negotiation or Trial: Your lawyer will pursue a dismissal, reduction, or present your defense at a bench or jury trial in Alexandria Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Embezzlement in Alexandria
In Alexandria, embezzlement penalties depend on the value of the property, ranging from a misdemeanor with jail time to a felony with prison.
| Charge | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Value under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Criminal record, restitution, possible job loss |
| Grand Larceny (Value $1,000+) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1 to 10 years* | Court discretion | Felony record, restitution, loss of professional licenses |
*A Class 6 felony carries 1-5 years, or up to 12 months in jail at jury discretion. A Class 5 felony carries 1-10 years.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Financial Crime Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, has a background in accounting and information systems, providing a distinct advantage in dissecting complex financial evidence in embezzlement and fraud cases. We approach each case with a detailed, evidence-focused strategy.
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
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in complex cases. For example, our team has successfully resolved federal probation violation cases in the Alexandria U.S. District Court, resulting in minimal incarceration and termination of probation. In state matters, we have achieved amendments of charges like driving on a suspended license to non-moving violations.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on complex financial defense matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s managing attorney and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting. His multi-state practice and experience amending Virginia law provide a high level of strategic insight for challenging cases.
Contact Our Alexandria Embezzlement Defense Lawyers
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Arlington Location (Serves Alexandria)
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 in Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne. We provide 24/7 phone consultations — meetings are by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Embezzlement Defense in Alexandria
What is the difference between embezzlement and theft in Virginia?
It depends on the relationship to the property. Theft involves taking property you have no right to. Embezzlement involves the fraudulent conversion of property lawfully entrusted to you, such as funds you manage for an employer. Both are prosecuted under larceny statutes based on value.
Can I go to jail for a first-time embezzlement charge in Alexandria?
Yes. Even a first-time petit larceny embezzlement charge (under $1,000) is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail. The court considers factors like the amount, restitution, and your criminal history. An experienced misappropriation of funds defense lawyer Alexandria can advocate for alternatives to incarceration.
What are common defenses to an embezzlement charge?
Common defenses include lack of fraudulent intent (you believed you were authorized), mistake or accident, entrapment, insufficient evidence of the alleged value, or that you had a claim of right to the property. Your attorney will analyze the specific facts to identify the strongest defense strategy.
Is embezzlement a state or federal crime in Alexandria?
It can be either. Most cases are prosecuted under Virginia state law in Alexandria General District or Circuit Court. However, if the crime involves federal funds, crosses state lines, or involves a federally insured bank, it may be prosecuted as a federal crime in the Alexandria U.S. District Court by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Why do I need a white collar crime defense lawyer Alexandria for an embezzlement case?
You need a white collar crime defense lawyer Alexandria because these cases are evidence-intensive and complex. A skilled attorney understands how to analyze financial records, challenge forensic accounting, negotiate with prosecutors, and present a compelling defense to a judge or jury to protect your freedom and future.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing embezzlement charges, you may also want to learn about Virginia criminal defense. For defense in nearby jurisdictions, see our page for an embezzlement lawyer Arlington. For other related legal services in Alexandria, consider a business lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.