Embezzlement in Chesterfield County 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 (up to 20 years in prison) depending on the value of the misappropriated property. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Embezzlement Lawyer Chesterfield County, 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. Unlike larceny, where property is taken without consent, embezzlement involves a breach of trust. The statute applies to employees, agents, fiduciaries, and anyone who lawfully comes into possession of another’s property but then misappropriates it for personal use. The severity of the charge depends on the value of the property: under $1,000 is a Class 1 misdemeanor, while $1,000 or more is a felony punishable by 1 to 20 years in prison. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly — official site
For the full text of the embezzlement statute, visit: Va. Code § 18.2-111 (Virginia General Assembly — official site). For information on Chesterfield County court procedures, see: Chesterfield County General District Court (Virginia Courts — official site).
Insider Perspective on Embezzlement Cases in Chesterfield County
In Chesterfield County General District Court, prosecutors routinely scrutinize financial records and bank statements to establish intent. We have observed that early intervention often leads to more favorable outcomes.
- Do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney.
- Preserve all financial records and communications.
- Contact an embezzlement lawyer immediately.
- Attend all court hearings at Chesterfield County General District Court.
- Work with your attorney to explore defense strategies.
- Consider first-offender programs if eligible.
In Chesterfield County, embezzlement carries penalties that range from a Class 1 misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the value of the misappropriated property.
| 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 |
| Embezzlement $1,000 or more | Felony | 1 to 20 years | Up to $100,000 | None | Permanent criminal record, loss of professional licenses |
Results may vary.
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 Chesterfield County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented results in Chesterfield County: 3 dismissed or not guilty, 2 reduced or amended — a favorable-outcome rate of 100% in all reported instances. Results may vary. These outcomes include a not guilty verdict for a profanity over public airway charge and a dismissal for a purchase/possess alcohol charge at Chesterfield County General District Court.
Our Location and Service Area
Our location in Richmond is approximately 15 miles from Chesterfield County General District Court (9500 Courthouse Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832), with access via I-95 and Route 10. If you are searching for an embezzlement lawyer near Chesterfield County, we are here to help. Serving the communities of Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley. 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 Embezzlement Charges in Chesterfield County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault and battery under Va. Code § 18.2-57, petit larceny under § 18.2-96, and driving on suspended under § 46.2-301. Cases are heard at Chesterfield County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Chesterfield County, 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 Chesterfield County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Chesterfield County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Chesterfield County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Chesterfield 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 Chesterfield County General District Court has serious long-term consequences. Under Va. Code § 19.2-295.1, penalties can include Class 1 misdemeanor: up to 12 months jail, up to $2,500 fine.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Chesterfield County?
Chesterfield County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Chesterfield 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
- Petit Larceny Lawyer Virginia — Statewide hub for petit larceny defense.
- Petit Larceny Lawyer Falls Church — Serving Falls Church, VA.
- Petit Larceny Lawyer Fairfax County — Serving Fairfax County, VA.
- Licensing Lawyer Chesterfield County — Business law services in Chesterfield County.
- Confidentiality Agreement Lawyer Chesterfield County — Business law services in Chesterfield County.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly — official site