Virginia Beach Petit Larceny Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Petit larceny in Virginia Beach 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 case results in Virginia Beach. A skilled petit larceny lawyer Virginia Beach can challenge the prosecution’s evidence and seek dismissal or reduction of your charge. Contact us 24/7 for a case review.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny is defined under Virginia law as the theft of goods valued at less than $1,000. It is codified in Va. Code § 18.2-96. This statute classifies the offense as a Class 1 misdemeanor, which is the most serious misdemeanor category in the state. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, focuses on building strong defenses against theft allegations from the initial investigation stage.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, refer to the Virginia General Assembly website for § 18.2-96. Court procedures and filing information for Virginia Beach cases are available through the Virginia Beach General District Court website.
Virginia Beach Court Process for Theft Charges
All petit larceny cases in Virginia Beach begin at the Virginia Beach General District Court located at 2425 Nimmo Parkway. Prosecutors here often have high caseloads, which can create opportunities for a defense attorney to negotiate favorable outcomes. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Virginia Beach can handle this process strategically.
- Receive a summons or warrant following an arrest or investigation.
- Attend your arraignment hearing to enter a plea of not guilty.
- Your attorney will review all evidence, including store security footage or witness statements.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction, dismissal, or alternative disposition.
- Prepare for trial if a satisfactory plea agreement cannot be reached.
- If convicted in GDC, you have the right to appeal for a new trial in Circuit Court.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Virginia
In Virginia Beach, a petit larceny conviction carries a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, 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 directly | Permanent criminal record; impacts employment, housing, professional licenses |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firm Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. The firm’s combined attorney experience exceeds 120 years. Our approach is informed by former prosecutors and law enforcement professionals who understand how cases are built. For instance, Of Counsel Bryan Block, a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of service, provides insight into investigation protocols that can be critical in theft cases.
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
Documented Case Results
Our attorneys have achieved favorable results in theft cases. In Fairfax County General District Court, we have secured dismissals and reductions to nolle prosequi for clients charged with petit larceny under Va. Code § 18.2-96.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Virginia Beach Petit Larceny Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients in Virginia Beach. We are accessible via I-64 and I-264. If you need a shoplifting charge lawyer Virginia Beach, our team is available. We serve Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Virginia Beach Petit Larceny FAQs
What is the penalty for petit larceny in Virginia Beach?
A Class 1 misdemeanor conviction for petit larceny in Virginia Beach carries a maximum penalty of up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500, plus court costs.
Can a petit larceny charge be dropped in Virginia Beach?
It depends. A prosecutor may drop charges (nolle prosequi) if evidence is weak. A skilled petit larceny lawyer Virginia Beach can also argue for dismissal through a first offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which is often available to those with no prior record.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time shoplifting charge?
Yes. Even a first-time charge is a serious misdemeanor that can result in jail time and a permanent record. A shoplifting charge lawyer Virginia Beach can protect your rights and work toward an outcome that may avoid a conviction.
What is the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny in Virginia?
The key difference is the value of the stolen property. Petit larceny involves property valued under $1,000 and is a misdemeanor. Grand larceny involves property valued at $1,000 or more and is a felony, carrying potential prison time.
Can a petit larceny conviction be expunged in Virginia?
Generally, no. Virginia law allows expungement primarily for acquittals, dismissals, or cases where charges are dropped (nolle prosequi). A conviction for petit larceny typically remains on your public criminal record permanently.
For related legal assistance, see our pages on Virginia criminal defense, Henrico County criminal defense, and Virginia Beach DUI defense.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.