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Theft of Government Property in Fairfax County carries serious federal penalties. A Theft of Government Property lawyer Fairfax County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can build a strong defense. With 501 documented results in Fairfax County, we understand the stakes. Va. Code § 18.2-192 applies to theft offenses.

Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-192 (official Virginia General Assembly)

Statutory Definition of Theft of Government Property

Theft of Government Property involves the unauthorized taking, conversion, or use of property owned by a government entity. Under Va. Code § 18.2-192, this includes property valued over $1,000, which can be charged as a felony. The prosecution must prove you knowingly and intentionally took property belonging to a federal, state, or local government agency. A Theft of Government Property lawyer Fairfax County can challenge the evidence and intent elements.

External Citation Links

Initial Appearance: You will appear before the magistrate at Fairfax County General District Court (4110 Chain Bridge Road).
Bond Hearing: A bond hearing is set. For theft charges, personal recognizance is possible for first offenses.
Preliminary Hearing (Felony): If charged as a felony, a preliminary hearing is held in GDC to determine probable cause.
Arraignment: You enter a plea. A not guilty plea leads to a trial date.
Discovery and Motions: Your attorney reviews evidence and files motions to suppress or dismiss.
Trial or Plea: The case proceeds to trial in GDC or Circuit Court, or a plea agreement is negotiated.

Penalty Table for Theft of Government Property

In Fairfax County, Theft of Government Property carries penalties up to 20 years in federal prison for amounts over $1,000.

Offense	Classification	Incarceration	Fine	License Impact	Additional Consequences
Theft of Government Property (value > $1,000)	Felony (Class 6)	1-5 years	Up to $2,500	None	Federal restitution, loss of security clearance
Theft of Government Property (value < $1,000)	Misdemeanor (Class 1)	Up to 12 months	Up to $2,500	None	Probation, community service

Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

E-E-A-T Authority Block

Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. Our firm has documented 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper.

Kristen Fisher – Former MD Assistant State’s Attorney | Bar: MD, VA. Ms. Fisher brings 15+ years of criminal defense experience, including handling theft and fraud cases in Fairfax County.

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

Case Results

In Fairfax County, we have 501 documented results: 336 dismissed/not guilty, 143 reduced/amended, 5 other favorable (97% favorable outcome rate). Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC: 4,739+ results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.

Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Fairfax

4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States

Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417

By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the penalty for theft of government property in Fairfax County?

Yes, it can be a felony. For property over $1,000, you face 1-5 years in prison and up to $2,500 in fines. For under $1,000, it is a Class 1 misdemeanor with up to 12 months in jail.

Can theft of government property charges be dismissed?

Yes, dismissal is possible. A Theft of Government Property lawyer Fairfax County can challenge the evidence, lack of intent, or chain of custody. In Fairfax County, 336 of our 501 cases were dismissed or resulted in not guilty.

Do I need a lawyer for a first-time theft offense?

Yes. Even a first offense can lead to jail time and a permanent record. A Theft of Government Property lawyer Fairfax County can negotiate a deferred disposition or first offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2.

How long does a theft case take in Fairfax County?

It depends. Misdemeanor trials in General District Court take 4-8 weeks from arraignment. Felony cases in Circuit Court take 3-9 months. Speedy trial rights apply: 5 months for misdemeanors, 9 months for felonies if incarcerated.

What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court for theft cases?

Fairfax County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.