Petit Larceny Lawyer in Stafford County, Virginia — What Are Your Defense Options?
Petit larceny in Stafford County is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-96, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results defending theft charges in Stafford County General District Court. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record. Contact a petit larceny lawyer Stafford County for a case review.
Virginia Petit Larceny Statute and Definition
Petit larceny, defined in Va. Code § 18.2-96, is the theft of goods or services valued at less than $1,000. This distinguishes it from grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more), which is a felony. The statute covers shoplifting, theft from a building, or theft of any property not taken from a person. The prosecution must prove you intentionally took property belonging to another without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it.
Last verified: April 2026 | Stafford County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the petit larceny statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information, including location and hours, is available at the Stafford County General District Court website.
Stafford County Court Process for Petit Larceny
Your case will begin at the Stafford County General District Court at 1300 Courthouse Road. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these charges. The court handles a high volume of cases, and early intervention by a petit larceny lawyer Stafford County can be critical. Prosecutors may offer first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon completion.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge if procedural errors exist.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction, dismissal, or diversion program.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, a bench trial (judge only) will be held in General District Court.
- Appeal: You have an absolute right to appeal a guilty verdict to Stafford County Circuit Court for a new jury trial.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Stafford County
In Stafford County, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail, a fine up to $2,500, 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 directly | Permanent criminal record, difficulty finding employment, loss of professional licenses. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. We understand that a theft charge, even a misdemeanor, can disrupt your life and future opportunities. Our approach is direct and focused on protecting your record.
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
Our team includes Mr. Sris, whose background as a former prosecutor and firm founder informs our strategic approach to criminal defense.
Documented Case Results
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in theft cases. In related matters, we have secured dismissals and reductions for clients facing petit larceny charges. Every case is unique, but our experience in Virginia courts is a key asset.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Petit Larceny Lawyer Near Stafford County
Our Fairfax location serves clients in Stafford County, Aquia Harbour, and Brooke. We are accessible via I-95 and Route 1. If you need a petit larceny lawyer Stafford County or a misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Stafford County, contact us for a consultation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for petit larceny in Stafford County?
Up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. It is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-96. A conviction results in a permanent criminal record.
Can a shoplifting charge lawyer Stafford County get the case dismissed?
It depends. Dismissals are possible if the evidence is weak, your rights were violated, or you qualify for a first-offender program. An experienced lawyer will review all options for dismissal or reduction.
Is petit larceny a felony in Virginia?
No. Petit larceny (theft under $1,000) is a misdemeanor. Theft of $1,000 or more is grand larceny, a felony.
Can a petit larceny charge be expunged in Virginia?
Yes, but only if the charge results in an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi (dropped by prosecutor). Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Stafford County Circuit Court.
Should I get a lawyer for a first-time shoplifting charge?
Yes. Even a first-time charge carries jail time and a permanent record. A lawyer can seek diversion to avoid a conviction altogether.
Internal Resources: For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense hub, or learn about criminal defense in Fairfax County. For related legal help in Stafford, consider our Stafford County DUI lawyers.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.