Embezzlement in Augusta County is prosecuted 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 with up to 20 years in prison depending on the value of the misappropriated funds. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Embezzlement Lawyer in Augusta County, Virginia
Understanding Embezzlement Under Virginia Law
Embezzlement, defined under Va. Code § 18.2-111, occurs when a person wrongfully appropriates or converts to their own use property entrusted to them by another. Unlike larceny, embezzlement involves a breach of trust — the defendant initially had lawful possession of the property. In Augusta County, embezzlement charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Augusta County General District Court for misdemeanor offenses or Augusta County Circuit Court for felony offenses. The value of the misappropriated property determines the classification: under $1,000 is a Class 1 misdemeanor, while $1,000 or more is a felony punishable by 1–20 years in prison. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Advocacy Without Borders, brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
Last verified: May 2026 | Augusta County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly — official site
Official Legal References
- Va. Code § 18.2-111 (Virginia General Assembly — official site) — Embezzlement statute
- Augusta County General District Court (Virginia Courts — official site) — Court information and procedures
Insider Knowledge: How Embezzlement Cases Are Handled in Augusta County
In Augusta County General District Court, prosecutors routinely rely on financial records and witness testimony to establish intent. We have observed that the Commonwealth’s Attorney often files charges only after a thorough investigation by local law enforcement or the Augusta County Sheriff’s Office. Early intervention by an experienced embezzlement lawyer can sometimes prevent charges from being filed at all.
- Step 1: Do not speak to investigators without your lawyer present. Invoke your right to counsel immediately.
- Step 2: Preserve all financial records, including bank statements, receipts, and accounting ledgers.
- Step 3: Contact an embezzlement lawyer at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
- Step 4: Do not destroy or alter any evidence. Spoliation can lead to additional charges.
- Step 5: Attend all court hearings at Augusta County General District Court or Augusta County Circuit Court.
- Step 6: Explore pre-trial diversion or plea negotiation with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
In Augusta County, embezzlement carries penalties ranging from a Class 1 misdemeanor for amounts under $1,000 to a felony with up to 20 years in prison for amounts of $1,000 or more.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Embezzlement under $1,000 | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | No direct impact | Permanent criminal record; potential employment and housing consequences |
| Embezzlement $1,000 or more | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1–20 years | Up to $100,000 | No direct impact | Loss of civil rights; permanent criminal record; potential deportation for non-citizens |
Results may vary.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Embezzlement Defense?
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience, 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. Our team includes former prosecutors and law enforcement officers who understand how the Commonwealth builds its case. We have handled numerous financial crimes, including embezzlement, fraud, and misappropriation of funds, in Augusta County and throughout Virginia. Advocacy Without Borders means we are available 24/7 to defend your rights.
Your Embezzlement Defense Team
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
Case Results in Augusta County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 13 documented results in Augusta County: 0 dismissed or not guilty, 13 reduced or amended — a favorable outcome in all reported instances. These results include traffic and reckless driving cases, demonstrating our ability to negotiate favorable outcomes in Augusta County courts. Results may vary.
Our Location and Service Area
Our location in Woodstock is approximately 60 miles from Augusta County General District Court (6 East Johnson Street, 2nd Floor, Staunton, VA 24401), with access via I-81 and Route 11. We serve the communities of Staunton, Waynesboro, Fishersville, Stuarts Draft, Verona, and Churchville. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Our Location: 505 N Main St, Suite 103, Woodstock, VA 22664 | (888) 437-7747 | By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Embezzlement in Augusta County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Augusta County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Augusta County 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 Augusta County General District Court (6 East Johnson Street, 2nd Floor, Staunton, VA 24401).
Yes. A Class 1 misdemeanor in Augusta County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Augusta County, Virginia?
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 Augusta County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
Yes, but only for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
How does bail work in Augusta County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Augusta County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Augusta County General District Court.
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Augusta County, 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 Augusta County General District Court has serious long-term consequences. Early legal representation is critical.
Yes. Criminal charges carry serious long-term consequences that require experienced legal representation.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Augusta County?
Augusta County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Augusta County 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.
GDC handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings; Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals.
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.
Defense strategies include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, and negotiating with prosecutors under Va. Code § 18.2-111.
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.
Contact a criminal attorney immediately and do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer.
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Last verified: May 2026 | Content updated regularly to reflect current Virginia law.