Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Virginia — What Are Your Options?
Petit larceny in Virginia is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-96, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record. A petit larceny defense lawyer Virginia from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results defending these charges. Contact us 24/7 for a consultation by appointment.
Virginia Petit Larceny Statute and Definition
Petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods valued at less than $1,000. It is codified under Va. Code § 18.2-96. This statute classifies the offense as a Class 1 misdemeanor, the most serious misdemeanor category in Virginia. The law requires the prosecution to prove you intentionally took property belonging to another with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. The value threshold is critical; theft of property valued at $1,000 or more is grand larceny, a felony.
Last verified: April 2026 | Statewide Virginia Courts | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and local rules can be found on the Virginia Judicial System website.
Local Court Process for Petit Larceny Charges
In Virginia, petit larceny cases begin with an arrest or summons. The case is heard in the General District Court of the jurisdiction where the alleged theft occurred. Prosecutors must prove value and intent. A skilled misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Virginia can challenge evidence like surveillance footage or witness identification. In many courts, prosecutors may offer diversion programs for first-time offenders, which can lead to dismissal upon completion.
- Initial Court Appearance (Arraignment): You will be formally advised of the charge and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Negotiations: Your attorney will review evidence, identify weaknesses, and negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction, dismissal, or diversion program.
- Trial Preparation: If no agreement is reached, your lawyer will prepare a defense strategy, which may include challenging the evidence of value or intent.
- Trial: A bench trial (judge only) is held in General District Court. Your attorney will present your defense and cross-examine witnesses.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If found guilty, sentencing occurs. You have the right to appeal for a new trial in Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Petit Larceny in Virginia
In Virginia, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Value under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months in jail | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent criminal record, difficulty finding employment, immigration consequences for non-citizens. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Virginia Criminal Defense Team
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your defense. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the local court procedures and use this knowledge to build effective defenses for clients facing theft charges.
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
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Documented Case Results
Our attorneys have successfully defended numerous petit larceny charges. For example, in Fairfax County General District Court, we have secured dismissals and reductions to nolle prosequi (dropped charges) for clients facing petit larceny under $200. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Near Fairfax, Virginia
Our Fairfax location at 4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032, is centrally located to serve clients across Northern Virginia. We are accessible via major highways including I-66, I-495 (Capital Beltway), and Route 50. If you need a shoplifting charge lawyer Virginia, we are here to help. We serve communities including Fairfax, Arlington, Reston, Herndon, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Centreville, Chantilly, Burke, Springfield, Annandale, Falls Church, Manassas, Woodbridge, Leesburg, Ashburn, Warrenton, Stafford, and Fredericksburg.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct
Fairfax, VA 22032
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Fairfax County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Fairfax 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 are heard at Fairfax County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a petit larceny charge in Virginia?
Yes. Even as a misdemeanor, a petit larceny conviction carries jail time and creates a permanent record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses. A petit larceny defense lawyer Virginia can work to get charges reduced or dismissed, often through diversion programs for first-time offenders.
What is the difference between petit larceny and shoplifting in Virginia?
Shoplifting is a form of petit larceny that specifically involves stealing merchandise from a retail establishment. Both are prosecuted under the same petit larceny statute (Va. Code § 18.2-96) if the value is under $1,000. A shoplifting charge lawyer Virginia can address the specific defenses related to retail theft.
Can a petit larceny charge be expunged in Virginia?
It depends. Virginia law allows expungement if the charge is dismissed, you are found not guilty, or under certain first-offender provisions. A conviction for petit larceny is generally not eligible for expungement, highlighting the importance of a strong defense from the start.
What should I do if I am accused of petit larceny?
Do not discuss the case with store security or police without an attorney present. Politely invoke your right to remain silent and your right to an attorney. Contact a misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Virginia immediately to protect your rights and begin building your defense.
Internal Resources: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Henrico County. For related legal issues, consider our Fairfax Reckless Driving Lawyer page.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal guidance regarding your specific case.