Embezzlement in Virginia Beach is a criminal offense under Va. Code § 18.2-111, carrying penalties that range from a Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine) to a felony depending on the value of the misappropriated funds. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Virginia Beach courts.
Embezzlement Lawyer Virginia Beach in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Understanding Embezzlement Under Virginia Law
Embezzlement is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-111 as the fraudulent conversion of property entrusted to a person by another. This statute applies when someone lawfully possesses another’s property but then misappropriates it for their own use. In Virginia Beach, embezzlement charges are prosecuted in the Virginia Beach General District Court for misdemeanor offenses and the Virginia Beach Circuit Court for felony offenses. The value of the property determines the classification: under $1,000 is petit larceny (Class 1 misdemeanor), while $1,000 or more is grand larceny (felony). A misappropriation of funds defense lawyer Virginia Beach can evaluate the specific facts of your case under this statute.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., “Advocacy Without Borders,” brings 120+ years combined legal experience to every case. The firm has 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, with a favorable-outcome rate above 93%.
Last verified: May 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly — official site
Official Legal References
Insider Perspective on Virginia Beach Embezzlement Cases
In Virginia Beach General District Court, prosecutors routinely handle embezzlement cases with a focus on the financial records. We have observed that the Commonwealth’s Attorney often relies heavily on bank statements, accounting ledgers, and witness testimony to establish intent.
Our experience defending these cases shows that procedural errors in the investigation can create opportunities for dismissal or reduction.
Early intervention is critical to preserve evidence and challenge the prosecution’s narrative.
- Do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney.
- Preserve all financial records and communications related to the alleged misappropriation.
- Contact an Embezzlement Lawyer Virginia Beach immediately to assert your rights.
- Your attorney will request discovery to review the prosecution’s evidence.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a favorable resolution, such as a reduction or dismissal.
- If necessary, prepare for trial in Virginia Beach Circuit Court.
In Virginia Beach, embezzlement carries penalties that depend on the value of the property misappropriated, ranging from a Class 1 misdemeanor to a felony.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Embezzlement under $1,000 | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible license suspension | Permanent criminal record; employment and housing impacts |
| Embezzlement $1,000 or more | Felony (Grand Larceny) | 1-20 years | Up to $100,000 | License suspension | Loss of voting rights; firearm prohibition; professional license impacts |
Results may vary.
Case Results in Virginia Beach
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 total documented case results across all practice areas in Virginia Beach, with a favorable outcome in all reported instances. Firm-wide, the firm has 4,739+ documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, with a favorable-outcome rate above 93%.
Results may vary. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.
Our Location and Service Area
Our location in Richmond is approximately 90 miles from Virginia Beach General District Court, with access via I-64 and I-264. We serve clients throughout Virginia Beach, including the communities of Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana.
If you are searching for an Embezzlement Lawyer Virginia Beach near you, we are available 24/7 for phone consultations.
Serving the communities of Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Phone: (804) 201-9009 | Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Virginia Beach
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia Beach carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at Virginia Beach General District Court (2425 Nimmo Parkway, Bldg 10B, Virginia Beach, VA 23456).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Yes. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Virginia Beach Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Virginia Beach. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Virginia Beach General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges carry possible jail time, fines, and a permanent record that affects employment, housing, professional licenses, and immigration status. Even a misdemeanor at Virginia Beach General District Court (misdemeanor) and Virginia Beach Circuit Court (felony) has serious long-term consequences.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Virginia Beach?
Virginia Beach General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Virginia Beach Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against embezzlement charges?
Defense strategies for embezzlement in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under Va. Code § 18.2-111 to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing embezzlement charges in Virginia?
If facing embezzlement charges in Virginia, contact a criminal attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all relevant documents and evidence. The statute of limitations and court deadlines under Virginia law require prompt action.
Related Legal Resources
- Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Virginia — State-level hub page for petit larceny defense.
- Petit Larceny Lawyer Stafford County — Serving Stafford County, Virginia.
- Petit Larceny Lawyer New Kent County — Serving New Kent County, Virginia.
- LLC Lawyer Virginia Beach — Business law services in Virginia Beach.
- Defamation Lawyer Virginia Beach — Civil litigation services in Virginia Beach.
Last verified: May 2026 | This page was last updated on 2026-05-01.