Felony Theft Lawyer Fairfax, VA

Felony theft charges in Fairfax, Virginia, are governed by the Commonwealth’s grand larceny statute, Va. Code § 18.2-95. A theft of property or money valued at an amount meeting the statutory threshold or more, or any theft directly from a person of $5 or more, is prosecuted as a felony. Conviction can result in one to twenty years in prison, or at the discretion of a jury up to twelve months in jail and a substantial fine. These cases are handled in the Fairfax County General District Court for initial appearance and preliminary hearing, and in the Fairfax County Circuit Court for jury trial. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Fairfax County prosecutes felony theft allegations actively. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, represents individuals facing felony theft allegations in Northern Virginia. Reach our Fairfax location at (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

Last reviewed: July 2026

What Felony Theft Means in Fairfax, Virginia

Under Virginia law, felony theft is classified as grand larceny. The threshold that separates a misdemeanor petit larceny from a felony grand larceny is the value of the property or money taken: if it meets the statutory amount, the offense is a felony. The same is true for any theft directly from the person of another where the value is $5 or above. Petit larceny, involving property valued below the statutory threshold, is a Class 1 misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of twelve months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.

Grand larceny is a felony that carries a prison sentence of one to twenty years, or, at the discretion of a jury, up to twelve months in jail and a fine. A felony conviction also creates a permanent criminal record that may affect employment, professional licensing, firearm rights, and immigration status. The Fairfax County General District Court (4110 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 210, Fairfax) conducts preliminary hearings for felony charges, while the Fairfax County Circuit Court handles all felony trials and any appeals from the General District Court. Because the stakes are so high, having counsel who understands both the statutory framework and the local courts can work to your advantage.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Felony Theft Cases

When a client contacts our firm about a felony theft matter in Fairfax, the first step is a thorough review of the charging documents, police reports, and any available evidence. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel examine whether the Commonwealth can prove every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt—including proper valuation of the property, the accused’s intent to permanently deprive the owner, and the chain of custody of any physical evidence. The defense team also evaluates whether any constitutional protections, such as those against unlawful search and seizure, were violated during the investigation or arrest.

Throughout the process, the firm works to preserve all available options. In some circumstances, negotiations with the prosecutor may result in an amended charge—for example, a reduction to a misdemeanor if the property value is close to the statutory threshold or if the evidence supports a lesser offense. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel also explore diversionary programs where appropriate, and they prepare each case as though it will go to trial, developing a strategy tailored to the specific facts and the client’s goals. The goal in every case is a thorough, well-prepared defense grounded in the details of the law and the local court’s procedures.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who has been practicing criminal defense since 1997. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). Mr. Sris is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York, giving the firm multi-state capability. He is joined by experienced Of Counsel who bring additional perspectives and skill to each case. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience to criminal defense. Results may vary.

The firm’s Fairfax location has documented case results in Fairfax County, including a high percentage of favorable outcomes in criminal matters. Collectively, the team approaches every felony theft case with a detailed understanding of Virginia’s larceny statutes, the local courts, and the strategies that can influence how a case is resolved. Reach our Fairfax location at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a lawyer for a felony theft charge in Fairfax, VA?

Yes, you should consult an experienced criminal defense lawyer immediately upon learning of a felony theft investigation or charge in Fairfax. Felony theft (grand larceny) carries the possibility of a prison sentence and a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and immigration status. An attorney can evaluate the evidence, advise you on the court process, and work to protect your rights. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can discuss your situation at (888) 437-7747.

What is the difference between grand larceny and petit larceny in Virginia?

Grand larceny is a felony involving property valued at the statutory threshold or more or theft directly from a person of $5 or more; petit larceny is a misdemeanor for property below that threshold. Grand larceny is punishable by one to twenty years in prison, while petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor with up to twelve months in jail and a $2,500 fine. The distinction is critical because a felony conviction carries lifelong consequences, including loss of firearm rights and voting restrictions while incarcerated. If the property value is near the statutory threshold, an attorney may challenge the valuation and seek a reduction to a misdemeanor.

What are the penalties for grand larceny in Fairfax County?

A conviction for grand larceny in Fairfax County can result in a prison term of one to twenty years, or at the jury’s discretion up to twelve months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. The sentence may also include restitution to the alleged victim and probation. A felony record can affect future employment, professional licenses, and immigration status. The court may consider factors such as the defendant’s prior criminal history and whether the theft involved aggravating circumstances when determining the sentence.

Can a felony theft charge be reduced to a misdemeanor in Virginia?

Yes, in certain cases a felony theft charge may be reduced to a misdemeanor through negotiation with the prosecutor or after a preliminary hearing. If the property value is close to the statutory threshold or if evidence of value is weak, an attorney may argue for a reduction to petit larceny. A successful reduction significantly lessens the possible penalties and may allow the record to be handled as a misdemeanor. The decision rests with the Commonwealth’s Attorney and the court, but a well-prepared defense can often present grounds for a favorable outcome.

Can a grand larceny conviction be expunged in Virginia?

Generally, a grand larceny conviction cannot be expunged in Virginia; expungement is typically available only for acquittals, dismissals, or cases that end in nolle prosequi. Under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, a person may petition the circuit court to expunge police and court records when charges did not result in a conviction. If your case was dismissed or resolved without a conviction, you may be eligible for expungement. An attorney can review your case and advise whether expungement is an option.

Additional resources: Criminal Defense Lawyer Fairfax County | Falls Church Criminal Lawyer | Prince William County Criminal Defense | Manassas Criminal Lawyer

Official sources: Virginia Grand Larceny Statute § 18.2-95 | Fairfax County General District Court

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