Embezzlement Lawyer Arlington County, VA

An embezzlement charge in Arlington County, Virginia, carries serious consequences—potential jail time, fines, and a criminal record that can affect your career, professional licensing, and future opportunities. Embezzlement is a theft offense involving the wrongful taking of money or property entrusted to you by an employer, client, or principal. Under Virginia law, embezzlement is punished under the same statutes as larceny: if the value of the property taken is $1,000 or more, it is charged as a felony with a possible sentence of one to twenty years in prison; if the value is less than $1,000, it is a misdemeanor punishable by up to twelve months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Cases are prosecuted in the Arlington County General District Court for misdemeanors and in the Arlington County Circuit Court for felonies. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are experienced multi-state attorneys who represent individuals facing embezzlement and other theft charges in Arlington County. To request a consultation, call (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

Last reviewed: July 2026

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder

Admitted in Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York

Practicing since 1997

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What Embezzlement Means in Arlington County

Embezzlement in Virginia is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-111 as the wrongful and fraudulent use, disposal, concealment, or appropriation of money, goods, or other property that has been entrusted to a person by another. Unlike other theft offenses, embezzlement involves a breach of trust—the accused had lawful possession of the property but then converted it for their own use. In Arlington County, the Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes embezzlement cases based on the value of the property at issue: amounts of $1,000 or more are charged as grand larceny, a felony, while amounts under $1,000 are charged as petit larceny, a Class 1 misdemeanor. The felony threshold is set by Va. Code § 18.2-95.

Arlington County’s courts handle embezzlement matters at two levels. Misdemeanor cases are heard in the Arlington County General District Court, located at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd, Suite 2400, Arlington, VA 22201. Felony cases begin with a preliminary hearing in the General District Court and, if probable cause is found, proceed to the Arlington County Circuit Court for trial or disposition. The Circuit Court is the only court with jurisdiction over felony trials and also hears appeals from the General District Court. Defendants have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time. The court’s schedules and the complexity of the evidence can affect how a case moves through the system; an experienced attorney can help you understand the procedural steps relevant to your situation.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Embezzlement Cases in Arlington County

When a person is accused of embezzlement, an early review of the financial records, the employment or fiduciary relationship, and the prosecution’s evidence is critical. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel begin by examining the charging documents and the underlying transactions to identify whether the Commonwealth can prove each element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt. They look for weaknesses in the chain of custody of financial documents, authorization problems, accounting ambiguities, or evidence that the accused lacked fraudulent intent. In many cases, the distinction between an accounting error and a criminal act is a key issue.

The defense team works to negotiate with the prosecutor where appropriate, including seeking amendments to reduced charges, entry into diversion or first-offender programs where eligible, or dismissal of charges when the evidence does not support the allegation. If a case goes to trial, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are prepared to cross-examine financial witnesses, challenge expert testimony, and present evidence of the accused’s lack of intent or rightful ownership. Because embezzlement cases often involve voluminous documentary evidence, a thorough and organized defense is essential. The attorneys approach each matter individually, focusing on achieving favorable outcomes under the specific facts of the case. Results may vary.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded the firm in 1997. He is a former prosecutor who has practiced criminal defense for over two decades. He is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York, and personally handles select complex criminal matters. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).

Mr. Sris works alongside a team of Of Counsel attorneys who bring additional perspectives to criminal defense. Some have backgrounds in law enforcement or prior prosecution, which provides insight into how the opposing side builds a case. The attorneys who handle embezzlement and other criminal matters in Arlington County are familiar with local court procedures and the expectations of prosecutors and judges. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel focus on constructing well-prepared defenses tailored to the specific charges a client faces. The firm’s Arlington location is at 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room 719, Arlington, VA 22209, by appointment only. Call (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the penalty for embezzlement in Arlington County, Virginia?

Embezzlement in Arlington County is punished based on the value of the property taken; if the amount is $1,000 or more, it is a felony carrying one to twenty years in prison, while theft under $1,000 is a Class 1 misdemeanor with up to twelve months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. The exact penalty depends on the specific facts, any prior criminal history, and the discretion of the court. Because embezzlement is an offense involving breach of trust, judges often view it seriously. An experienced attorney can explain how the sentencing guidelines may apply to your case and work to seek a reduction in charges or an alternative disposition when possible.

How does a Virginia lawyer defend against embezzlement charges?

Defense strategies for embezzlement in Virginia may include challenging the evidence of fraudulent intent, demonstrating authorization, raising accounting errors, and negotiating with prosecutors to reduce charges or seek dismissal. An experienced attorney will closely examine financial records, employment documentation, and the specific circumstances of the alleged taking. In many embezzlement prosecutions, the critical issue is whether the defendant acted with the necessary criminal intent. If the defense can show that the accused believed they had a right to the property or that a mistake occurred, the charges may be resolved favorably.

What should I do if I am facing embezzlement charges in Arlington County?

If you are facing embezzlement charges in Arlington County, you should contact a criminal defense attorney immediately, avoid discussing the case with anyone except your lawyer, and preserve all relevant financial documents and communications. Early legal intervention can affect the course of the case. Do not speak to law enforcement or investigators without counsel present. An attorney can assess the evidence, explain what you are up against, and begin building a defense strategy. Prompt action is important to meet court deadlines and to protect your rights. Call (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation.

Do I need a lawyer for embezzlement charges in Arlington County?

Yes, because embezzlement charges can result in a felony conviction, jail or prison time, and a permanent criminal record that affects employment, professional licenses, security clearances, and immigration status. Even misdemeanor convictions have long-term consequences. An experienced attorney can help you understand the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecution’s case, advise you on whether to go to trial or negotiate a resolution, and represent you at every court appearance. Attempting to represent yourself in a theft case involving financial evidence is risky. To discuss your situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

Can embezzlement charges be reduced or dismissed in Virginia?

Yes, embezzlement charges in Virginia can sometimes be reduced to a lesser offense or dismissed entirely, depending on the strength of the evidence, the presence of mitigating factors, and the skill of your defense attorney. Possible favorable outcomes include amendment to a misdemeanor (if originally a felony), nolle prosequi (prosecutor’s decision not to proceed), or dismissal after successful completion of a diversion program where available. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work actively to identify grounds for challenging the charges. Results may vary.

How does the court process work for embezzlement in Arlington County?

Misdemeanor embezzlement cases start with an arraignment in the Arlington County General District Court, followed by a trial date; felony cases begin with a preliminary hearing in the same court, and if probable cause is found, the case is transferred to the Arlington County Circuit Court for trial or plea. At every stage, the defense has the right to challenge evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and present its own case. The timeline varies according to court availability, the complexity of the financial evidence, and whether motions are filed. An attorney can guide you through each step and advise you on what to expect at hearings. For guidance on your specific situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

Virginia official resources:
Virginia Code Title 18.2 – Crimes and Offenses •
Arlington County Circuit Court •
Arlington County General District Court

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