Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer in Chesapeake, Virginia — What Are Your Options?
Petit larceny in Chesapeake 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 results in Chesapeake for theft-related charges. A skilled petit larceny defense lawyer Chesapeake can challenge the prosecution’s evidence and seek dismissal or reduction.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law and Penalties
Petit larceny, defined in Va. Code § 18.2-96, is the theft of goods valued under $1,000. It is distinct from grand larceny (theft over $1,000), which is a felony. In Chesapeake, these cases are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Chesapeake General District Court located at 307 Albemarle Drive.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm understands how these charges are built from the ground up. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information and procedures can be found at the Chesapeake General District Court website.
Local Court Process for a Petit Larceny Charge
Chesapeake General District Court handles all misdemeanor petit larceny trials. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Chesapeake prosecutes these cases. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 may be available, where successful completion can result in dismissal.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty, 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, often seeking a reduction to a lesser offense or diversion program.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge in GDC. You have a right to appeal to Circuit Court for a jury trial.
Potential Penalties for Petit Larceny in Chesapeake
In Chesapeake, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Record Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Value under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Permanent Criminal Record |
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. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and more than 4,739 case results firm-wide, we provide focused defense. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, offering insight into how the other side builds 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
Our team also includes former Maryland prosecutor Kristen Fisher, who brings extensive courtroom experience to building a strong defense strategy for clients in Chesapeake.
Documented Case Results
Our firm has a documented result in Chesapeake: 1 dismissed/not guilty outcome for a client. Firm-wide, we have handled numerous petit larceny and shoplifting cases, achieving dismissals, reductions to lesser offenses, and favorable diversions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Chesapeake Petit Larceny Defense Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients at Chesapeake courts. We represent individuals in Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
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 petit larceny in Chesapeake, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. The case is heard at Chesapeake General District Court.
Can a shoplifting charge be expunged in Chesapeake?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. A first-offense diversion that leads to dismissal may qualify.
Do I need a misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Chesapeake for a first-time shoplifting charge?
Yes. Even a first-time misdemeanor carries jail time and creates a permanent record. A lawyer can seek diversion programs to avoid a conviction.
What should I look for in a shoplifting charge lawyer Chesapeake?
Look for experience in Chesapeake General District Court, knowledge of local prosecutor tendencies, and a record of negotiating diversions or challenging evidence like surveillance footage or loss prevention procedures.
What’s the difference between GDC and Circuit Court for a theft case?
Chesapeake General District Court handles misdemeanor trials. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time, which requires an appeal from the GDC verdict.
Related Practice Areas: For other charges, see our Chesapeake DUI lawyer or Chesapeake family law attorney pages.
Nearby Locations: We also serve clients in Henrico County and Chesterfield County.
Learn More: Visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page for more information.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.