Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer in Manassas Park, Virginia — What Are Your Options?
Petit larceny under Va. Code § 18.2-96 is a Class 1 misdemeanor in Manassas Park, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for theft under $1,000 charges at the Manassas Park General District Court.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law and Penalties
In Virginia, petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods valued at less than $1,000. This offense is distinct from grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more) and is codified under Va. Code § 18.2-96. It is classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor, the most serious misdemeanor category in the state.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas Park General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. We understand that a theft charge, even for a small amount, can have serious consequences for your future, employment, and reputation.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, refer to the Virginia Code § 18.2-96. Court information, including location and hours, can be found on the Manassas Park General District Court website.
Local Court Process for a Petit Larceny Charge
Manassas Park General District Court handles all misdemeanor petit larceny trials. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for the 31st Judicial District prosecutes these cases. For a shoplifting charge lawyer Manassas Park clients trust, understanding local procedure is key. The court is located at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110.
- Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charge 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 engage with the prosecutor to seek a dismissal, reduction, or favorable plea agreement.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge in General District Court.
- Appeal or Sentencing: You can appeal a guilty verdict to Manassas Park Circuit Court for a new jury trial. If convicted, sentencing occurs.
Potential Penalties for Petit Larceny in Manassas Park
In Manassas Park, 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; difficulty finding employment; loss of professional licenses. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firm Authority and Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy drives a focused defense. Mr. Sris, the managing attorney and a former prosecutor, personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute (Va. Code § 20-107.3), demonstrating a deep engagement with state law. Our team’s former prosecutorial experience provides critical insight into how the Commonwealth builds its cases, which we use to develop effective defense strategies for clients facing misdemeanor theft charges.
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 of favorable outcomes in theft cases. For example, we have secured dismissals and reductions to nolle prosequi in Fairfax County General District Court for petit larceny charges. In Manassas Park, we have 3 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 100% favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on complex criminal matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with multi-state bar admissions who maintains a deep understanding of Virginia criminal law and procedure.
Contact Our Manassas Park Petit Larceny Defense Lawyers
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas Park courts. We are your nearby petit larceny defense lawyer Manassas Park residents can consult.
Service Area: Manassas Park and surrounding communities.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417 — meetings by appointment only.
Address: Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax, 4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States. By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for petit larceny in Manassas Park, Virginia?
Yes, it is a Class 1 misdemeanor. The maximum penalty is up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine under Va. Code § 18.2-96. Cases are heard at Manassas Park General District Court.
Can a first-time petit larceny charge be dismissed in Virginia?
It depends. Prosecutors may offer first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2. Successful completion often results in dismissal. Eligibility depends on your record, the case facts, and skilled advocacy from a misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Manassas Park courts recognize.
Do I need a lawyer for a shoplifting charge under $200?
Yes. Even a minor theft conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect jobs, housing, and educational opportunities. A shoplifting charge lawyer Manassas Park residents hire can work to avoid a conviction.
What is the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny in VA?
The key difference is the value of the stolen property. Petit larceny involves goods valued under $1,000 and is a misdemeanor. Grand larceny involves $1,000 or more and is a felony, carrying potential prison time of 1 to 20 years.
Can a petit larceny conviction be expunged in Virginia?
No, Virginia law generally does not allow expungement of convictions. Expungement is typically only available for acquittals, dismissals, or nolle prosequi (charges dropped) under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. This makes avoiding a conviction through a strong defense critically important.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Fairfax County and Prince William County. If you are facing other charges, explore our related services in Manassas Park: DUI Defense or Family Law.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.