Petit Larceny Lawyer Alexandria — What Are Your Defense Options?
Petit larceny in Alexandria is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-96, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results defending theft charges at Alexandria General District Court. A skilled petit larceny lawyer Alexandria can challenge evidence and seek dismissal or reduction.
Last verified: April 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Petit larceny, defined as the theft of goods valued under $1,000, is prosecuted as a Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia. The charge is governed by Va. Code § 18.2-96. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record, impacting employment, housing, and professional licenses. The Alexandria Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases at the Alexandria General District Court located at 520 King Street.
For official statute text, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Alexandria General District Court website.
Defending Petit Larceny and Shoplifting Charges in Alexandria
In Alexandria, prosecutors routinely seek convictions for petit larceny, especially in retail theft cases. A strong defense often involves examining store security procedures, witness identification, and the valuation of the allegedly stolen items. The court at 520 King Street sees a high volume of these cases.
- Your first court date is an arraignment at Alexandria GDC where you enter a plea.
- Your attorney will file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss if procedural errors exist.
- Negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney may lead to a reduced charge or diversion.
- If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge.
- You have an absolute right to appeal a conviction to the Alexandria Circuit Court for a jury trial.
In Alexandria, petit larceny carries up to 12 months in jail, a $2,500 fine, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Value < $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record; impacts employment, professional licenses, immigration status. |
| Shoplifting (Petit Larceny) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Possible civil demand letter from retailer; store ban. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Experience in Alexandria Criminal Courts
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to each case. Our firm-wide track includes 4,739+ documented case results. We understand the local procedures at Alexandria General District Court and the strategies of the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office.
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
Our team, which includes former prosecutor Kristen Fisher and former Virginia State Trooper Bryan Block, has successfully defended theft charges. For example, we secured a dismissal for a petit larceny under $200 charge in Fairfax County GDC. Results may vary.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Arlington location serves clients at the Alexandria courts. We represent individuals in Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne. Contact us for a petit larceny lawyer near Alexandria.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Alexandria, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Alexandria 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. Petit larceny under $1,000 is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Can a shoplifting charge be reduced in Alexandria?
It depends. An experienced misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Alexandria can often negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction to a lesser offense like trespassing or disorderly conduct, especially for first-time offenders. This can avoid a theft conviction on your record.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time shoplifting charge?
Yes. Even a first-time petit larceny charge carries jail time and creates a permanent record. A shoplifting charge lawyer Alexandria can seek diversion programs or dismissal that you likely cannot secure on your own.
What is the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny?
The key difference is value. Theft of property valued under $1,000 is petit larceny, a misdemeanor. Theft of $1,000 or more is grand larceny, a felony in Virginia punishable by 1 to 20 years in prison.
Can petit larceny charges be expunged in Virginia?
Virginia allows expungement only for acquittals, dismissals, or cases where the prosecutor enters a nolle prosequi. Most convictions cannot be expunged. A dismissal obtained through a first offender program may be eligible.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.