Petit Larceny Lawyer New Kent County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Petit larceny in New Kent County 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 4 documented results in New Kent County. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record. Contact a petit larceny lawyer New Kent County for a case review.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods valued at less than $1,000. It is prosecuted under Virginia Code § 18.2-96. This statute classifies the offense as a Class 1 misdemeanor, the most serious misdemeanor category in Virginia. 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 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the New Kent County General District Court website.
New Kent County Court Process for Theft Charges
All petit larceny cases in New Kent County begin at the New Kent County General District Court at 12001 Courthouse Circle. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases. First-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 may be available, skilled to dismissal upon successful completion.
- Receive a summons or warrant for petit larceny.
- Appear for arraignment at New Kent County General District Court to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review discovery and file any necessary pre-trial motions.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a possible reduction or dismissal.
- Proceed to a bench trial in General District Court if no agreement is reached.
- If convicted, you have the right to appeal for a new jury trial in New Kent County Circuit Court.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Virginia
In New Kent County, petit larceny carries a penalty of up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500, plus 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; difficulty with employment, housing, professional licenses |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firm Experience in Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to criminal cases. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” approach means we provide full representation from investigation through trial. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, is a former prosecutor with a background that provides a strategic advantage in building defenses.
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
Our firm has a documented record in New Kent County. We have 4 documented results in this locality: 3 dismissed/not guilty and 1 reduced/amended, representing a 100% favorable outcome rate for these cases. In other jurisdictions, our team has successfully defended against petit larceny charges, achieving dismissals and reductions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Petit Larceny Defense Near New Kent County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts. We are accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 249. We provide representation for residents of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in New Kent County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in New Kent County 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 criminal charges be expunged in New Kent County, Virginia?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in New Kent County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a shoplifting charge in New Kent County?
Yes. A shoplifting charge lawyer New Kent County can protect your rights. Even a first-time misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and creates a permanent record visible to employers and landlords, making skilled defense critical.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in New Kent County?
New Kent County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. New Kent County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
How does bail work for a theft charge in New Kent County?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors like petit larceny. Secured bond (requiring a bail bondsman) is more typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to New Kent County General District Court.
Related Pages: For broader defense, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. In New Kent County, we also handle DUI charges and reckless driving.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.