Embezzlement Lawyer Fauquier County, Virginia
Embezzlement in Fauquier County is a criminal offense under Va. Code § 18.2-111, carrying penalties that range from a Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine) to a felony (1-10 years) depending on the value of the misappropriated property. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 68 documented results in Fauquier County, with a 90% favorable outcome rate.
Understanding Embezzlement Under Virginia Law
Embezzlement, defined under Va. Code § 18.2-111, occurs when a person wrongfully takes or converts property entrusted to them by another. In Fauquier County, this charge is prosecuted at the Fauquier County General District Court for misdemeanor offenses and at the Fauquier County Circuit Court for felony-level cases. The key distinction between embezzlement and larceny is that embezzlement involves a breach of trust — the defendant had lawful possession of the property but unlawfully converted it for personal use. Penalties escalate with the value of the property: under $1,000 is a Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine), while $1,000 or more is a felony (1-10 years in prison).
Last verified: April 2026 | Fauquier County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly — official site
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 handled numerous embezzlement and white collar crime defense matters in Fauquier County, providing clients with strategic representation grounded in deep procedural knowledge.
Official Legal References
For the full text of the embezzlement statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-111 (Virginia General Assembly — official site). For information on Fauquier County court procedures, visit Fauquier County General District Court (Virginia Courts — official site).
Insider Knowledge: How Embezzlement Cases Are Handled in Fauquier County
In Fauquier County General District Court, prosecutors routinely seek enhanced penalties for embezzlement cases involving public funds or vulnerable victims. We have observed that the Commonwealth’s Attorney often files charges under both § 18.2-111 (embezzlement) and § 18.2-178 (false pretenses) to maximize use during plea negotiations.
- Do not speak to investigators without your attorney present — anything you say can be used to establish intent.
- Preserve all financial records, emails, and correspondence related to the alleged misappropriation.
- Contact an experienced misappropriation of funds defense lawyer Fauquier County immediately to protect your rights.
- Attend all court hearings at Fauquier County General District Court (6 Court Street, Warrenton, VA 20186).
- Work with your attorney to explore pre-trial diversion or first-offender programs that may avoid a conviction.
In Fauquier County, embezzlement carries penalties ranging from a Class 1 misdemeanor for property under $1,000 to a Class 5 felony for property valued at $1,000 or more, with potential incarceration up to 10 years.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Embezzlement (property under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record; potential restitution |
| Embezzlement (property $1,000 or more) | Class 5 Felony | 1 to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record; loss of voting rights; potential deportation for non-citizens |
| Embezzlement by fiduciary (public funds) | Class 5 Felony | 1 to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Enhanced penalties; mandatory restitution; ineligibility for public office |
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%. The firm has a proven track record in Fauquier County, with 68 documented case results including 57 reduced or amended outcomes. As a white collar crime defense lawyer Fauquier County, the firm understands the details of financial crime investigations and works tirelessly to protect your rights.
Your Legal 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
Proven Results in Fauquier County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 68 documented results in Fauquier County: 2 dismissed or not guilty, 57 reduced or amended — a favorable-outcome rate of 90%. These results demonstrate the firm’s commitment to achieving favorable outcome for clients facing embezzlement and other criminal charges. Results may vary.
Convenient Location Serving Fauquier County
Our location in Fairfax is approximately 25 miles from Fauquier County General District Court, with access via I-66 and Route 29. We serve as an embezzlement lawyer near Fauquier County, providing dedicated representation to clients throughout the region.
Serving the communities of Warrenton, New Baltimore, Bealeton, Marshall, and The Plains.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
(703) 636-5417 | (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Embezzlement Charges in Fauquier County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Fauquier County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Fauquier 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 Fauquier County General District Court (6 Court Street, Warrenton, VA 20186).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Fauquier 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 Fauquier County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Fauquier County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Fauquier County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Fauquier County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Fauquier 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 Fauquier County General District Court has serious long-term consequences. Early legal representation is critical.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Fauquier County?
Fauquier County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Fauquier 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.
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
Last updated: 2026-04-30. This page is regularly reviewed to ensure accuracy of legal information.