Embezzlement Lawyer Fauquier County, VA

An embezzlement allegation in Fauquier County—whether it involves employee theft, misappropriation of entrusted funds, or a business dispute—carries serious potential consequences under Virginia law. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these financial offenses actively, and a conviction can lead to incarceration, substantial fines, and a lasting criminal record that affects employment, professional licensing, and personal reputation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents individuals facing embezzlement charges in Fauquier County General District Court and Fauquier County Circuit Court. Our firm is led by Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor who founded the practice in 1997 and understands how the prosecution builds a financial-crime case. We approach each matter with a thorough review of the evidence and a strategy tailored to the specific facts. To request a consultation, reach our firm at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

What Embezzlement Means in Fauquier County

Under Virginia law, embezzlement is governed by Va. Code § 18.2‑111. The statute treats the wrongful and fraudulent conversion of property—money, checks, receipts, or any other tangible or intangible personal property that a person has received for another, an employer, or a principal—as larceny. This means the severity of the charge is determined by the value of the property involved. In Fauquier County, as elsewhere in Virginia, law enforcement investigates suspected embezzlement thoroughly, often relying on financial records, forensic accounting, and witness statements. The county’s Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases with a focus on establishing fraudulent intent and the unauthorized use or concealment of assets.

Fauquier County criminal matters are heard in the General District Court for misdemeanors and preliminary hearings, and in the Circuit Court for felony trials. Embezzlement cases frequently involve complex documentation, and the prosecutor’s office works closely with investigators to present a detailed financial narrative. Because the outcome is tied to the property value, early assessment of the alleged loss amount is critical. Even a petit larceny-level charge—a Class 1 misdemeanor—can result in up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A grand larceny-level embezzlement is a felony, punishable by imprisonment in a state correctional facility. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have experience evaluating these charges and identifying potential procedural or substantive defenses unique to Fauquier County’s courts.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Embezzlement Cases

Embezzlement defense in Virginia begins with a careful examination of the alleged transaction and the intent element. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel analyze whether the accused acted with fraudulent purpose, whether there was a genuine claim of right to the property, and whether the property was converted under circumstances that the statute actually reaches. We also scrutinize the investigation process—were financial documents properly obtained? Was the accused interviewed without appropriate advisements? In Fauquier County, law enforcement agencies sometimes rely on internal corporate audit reports, and we examine these materials for gaps or bias. We work with forensic accounting resources when necessary to challenge the prosecution’s valuation and to develop alternative explanations for financial discrepancies.

When the evidence permits, counsel may negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to seek a reduction of the charge—for instance, amending a felony grand larceny to a misdemeanor if the actual loss is less than $1,000 or if the accused has no prior record. Under Va. Code § 19.2‑303.2, a first‑time offender facing a misdemeanor embezzlement charge may be eligible for deferred disposition: the court defers proceedings and places the defendant on probation; upon successful completion, the charge is dismissed. For felony matters, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel evaluate every potential ground for a motion to suppress evidence and prepare thoroughly for a preliminary hearing in the Fauquier County General District Court. If the case proceeds to the Circuit Court, we focus on presenting a persuasive defense at trial, emphasizing reasonable doubt as to fraudulent intent. Throughout, we keep clients informed and involved in strategic decisions.

About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys

Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor who brings a valuable perspective to criminal defense. Mr. Sris has practiced in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York, and he has developed a thorough understanding of how financial-crime allegations are investigated and prosecuted. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). His experience in the courtroom, combined with a careful, analytical approach, allows him to identify the strengths and weaknesses in the government’s case early in the process.

The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience to embezzlement and other criminal matters. They have handled cases at both the General District and Circuit Court levels in Fauquier County and throughout Virginia. We approach each case with a commitment to meaningful client communication and a defense strategy built on a meticulous review of the facts. For a confidential consultation about an embezzlement matter, call (888) 437-7747.

Frequently Asked Questions

What constitutes embezzlement under Virginia law?

Embezzlement in Virginia is the wrongful and fraudulent conversion of property that an individual has received for another, an employer, or a principal, and is prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2‑111. The offense requires proof that the accused had lawful possession of the property and then intentionally misused or concealed it. Unlike larceny, embezzlement occurs when the property was initially entrusted to the person. The charge is graded as grand larceny (felony) if the value is $1,000 or more, or petit larceny (misdemeanor) if less. Common examples include an employee taking company funds, a bookkeeper diverting payments, or a financial manager misappropriating client assets. To discuss the specific allegations in your situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.

What are the penalties for embezzlement in Fauquier County?

An embezzlement conviction in Fauquier County can result in significant jail or prison time, depending on whether the charge is classified as petit larceny or grand larceny. A petit larceny embezzlement, involving less than $1,000, is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. If the value is $1,000 or more, it is a felony, with a range of one to 20 years in prison, or at the discretion of the jury, up to 12 months in jail and a fine. In addition, a felony conviction results in the loss of firearm rights and can affect employment opportunities. For guidance on the potential exposure in your case, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.

How does a Virginia lawyer defend against embezzlement charges?

An experienced defense attorney in Virginia challenges embezzlement charges by examining the specific intent to defraud, the ownership and value of the property, and the legality of the investigation. A defense may argue that the accused believed in good faith they had a right to the property, that the property was taken as repayment of a debt, or that there was no fraudulent concealment. The lawyer also reviews financial records, bank statements, and witness credibility to undermine the prosecution’s narrative. Procedural challenges—such as improperly obtained evidence or Miranda violations—may lead to suppression of key evidence. To explore possible defenses, contact Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437‑7747.

What should I do if I am facing embezzlement charges in Virginia?

If you are facing embezzlement charges in Virginia, you should immediately refrain from discussing the case with anyone except your attorney and preserve all relevant financial documents. Do not speak with law enforcement or investigators without legal representation, as anything you say can be used against you. Gather but do not alter any records: bank statements, accounting ledgers, emails, and contracts. Early involvement of a defense lawyer can help shape the investigation, potentially avoid formal charges, and prepare for the arraignment and bond hearing. For a timely consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.

Can embezzlement charges be dropped or reduced in Fauquier County?

Yes, embezzlement charges may be reduced or dismissed depending on the facts, the strength of the evidence, and negotiations with the prosecutor. If the alleged loss amount is less than $1,000, a felony grand larceny charge may be amended to a misdemeanor. Under Va. Code § 19.2‑303.2, a first-time offender charged with a misdemeanor embezzlement may be eligible for deferred disposition, experienced to a dismissal after successful completion of probation. Even at the felony level, a thorough defense motion or a showing of restitution can sometimes lead to a favorable resolution. For an evaluation of your options, call Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437‑7747.

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

Yes, retaining a lawyer is strongly advised if you are facing an embezzlement allegation in Fauquier County because the consequences of a conviction are severe and the prosecution is committed to proving financial crimes. An attorney can protect your rights during questioning, challenge the valuation of the alleged loss, and present a defense that may not be apparent to an unrepresented defendant. The court system in Fauquier County expects defendants to navigate procedural rules and deadlines that can be difficult without legal training. To discuss representation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.

For more information about criminal defense representation in neighboring Virginia communities, you may find these resources helpful:

• Fairfax County criminal defense lawyers
• Prince William County criminal defense attorneys
• Stafford County criminal defense attorneys
• Loudoun County criminal defense lawyers
• Arlington County criminal defense lawyers

Official Virginia legal resources (open in a new tab):

• Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses)
• Virginia Judicial System
• Virginia Code § 18.2‑111 (Embezzlement)

Last reviewed: July 2026

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