Embezzlement in Virginia is a crime 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 (up to 20 years in prison) depending on the value of the misappropriated property. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Embezzlement Lawyer Lexington, Virginia
Understanding Embezzlement Under Virginia Law
Embezzlement is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-111 as the wrongful appropriation of property entrusted to a person, such as an employee, agent, or fiduciary. Unlike larceny, where property is taken without consent, embezzlement involves a lawful possession that becomes unlawful when the property is converted for personal use. In Lexington, Virginia, these cases are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard in the Lexington General District Court for misdemeanor offenses or the Lexington Circuit Court for felony charges. 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 to 20 years in prison.
Last verified: April 2026 | Lexington 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.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the embezzlement statute, visit Va. Code § 18.2-111 (Virginia General Assembly — official site). For information on Virginia’s court system and procedures, see Virginia Courts (vacourts.gov — official site).
Insider Knowledge: How Embezzlement Cases Are Handled in Lexington
In Lexington General District Court, prosecutors routinely rely on financial records and witness testimony to build embezzlement cases. We have observed that early intervention can often lead to charge amendments or dismissals, especially when the defendant has no prior record.
- Do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney.
- Preserve all financial documents, emails, and records related to the alleged misappropriation.
- Contact a misappropriation of funds defense lawyer Lexington immediately to protect your rights.
- Attend all court hearings at Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450).
- Work with your attorney to explore defense strategies, including challenging the evidence or negotiating a plea.
- If the case proceeds to Lexington Circuit Court, prepare for a jury trial if the charges are felony-level.
In Lexington, embezzlement carries penalties ranging from a Class 1 misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the value of the property misappropriated.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Embezzlement under $1,000 | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record; potential employment and housing impacts |
| Embezzlement $1,000 or more | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1 to 20 years | Up to $2,500 or more | None | Permanent criminal record; loss of professional licenses; immigration consequences |
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%. “Advocacy Without Borders” reflects our commitment to providing aggressive, knowledgeable representation for clients facing serious criminal charges, including embezzlement. Our team understands the details of white collar crime defense and works tirelessly to protect your rights.
Your Defense Team
Proven Results in Lexington
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 total documented case results across all practice areas in Lexington: 1 dismissed or not guilty, 12 reduced or amended, 0 deferred — a favorable outcome in all reported instances. Results may vary. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.
Firm-wide, SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Our Location and Service Area
Our location in Woodstock is approximately 60 miles from Lexington General District Court, with access via I-81 and Route 11. We serve the communities of Lexington, Buena Vista border, and Rockbridge County surrounds. As a white collar crime defense lawyer Lexington, we provide 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Shenandoah/Woodstock
505 N Main St, Suite 103, Woodstock, VA 22664
Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Lexington
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Lexington, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Lexington 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 Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Lexington, 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 Lexington Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Lexington, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Lexington. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Lexington General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Lexington (City), 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 Lexington General District Court has serious long-term consequences. Early legal representation is critical.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Lexington?
Lexington General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Lexington 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 Practice Areas and Locations
Learn more about our services: Petit Larceny Lawyer Virginia (state hub). Explore other locations: Petit Larceny Lawyer Falls Church and Petit Larceny Lawyer Fairfax County. See related practice areas: Non Compete Lawyer Lexington and Consumer Protection Lawyer Lexington.
Last verified: April 2026