Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer in Prince George County, Virginia
Petit larceny in Prince George 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. provides defense for theft charges under $1,000 at the Prince George County General District Court. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods or services valued at less than $1,000. Under Virginia law, this offense is distinct from grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more, a felony). The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-96, classifies petit larceny as a Class 1 misdemeanor. This classification applies regardless of whether the property was taken from a person or from a store, making a shoplifting charge lawyer Prince George County essential for retail theft cases.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince George County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and forms are available at the Prince George County General District Court website.
Defense Strategy for Prince George County Court
In Prince George County, prosecutors must prove you intentionally took property without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner. Common defenses include mistaken identity, lack of intent, claim of right, or valuation disputes. The Prince George County General District Court handles all petit larceny trials. An experienced misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Prince George County can challenge evidence, negotiate for diversion programs, or seek a reduction to a lesser offense.
- Initial Appearance: You will be arraigned at Prince George County General District Court (6601 Courts Drive).
- Discovery & Investigation: Your attorney will obtain police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or challenge the charge.
- Negotiation or Trial: Your attorney will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a favorable plea or prepare for a bench trial.
- Sentencing or Diversion: If convicted, your lawyer will argue for minimal penalties. If eligible, they will seek a first offender dismissal.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Virginia
In Prince George County, 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, immigration consequences for non-citizens. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and a record of 4,739+ case results firm-wide. We understand how theft cases are investigated and prosecuted in Prince George County.
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, including Mr. Sris, leverages former prosecutorial insight to build strong defenses for clients facing theft charges.
Case Results
Our attorneys have successfully defended clients against petit larceny charges. In Fairfax County GDC, we have secured dismissals and reductions to nolle prosequi for charges under Va. Code § 18.2-96.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Prince George County Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Near Me
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Prince George County courts (6601 Courts Drive). We represent clients in Prince George and the Hopewell area, accessible via I-295, Route 10, and Route 36.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Prince George County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Prince George County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96) is a common Class 1 misdemeanor charge.
Can petit larceny charges be expunged in Prince George County?
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 offender dismissal may qualify. The petition is filed in Prince George County Circuit Court.
Do I need a lawyer for a shoplifting charge in Prince George County?
Yes. Even a first-time shoplifting charge is a Class 1 misdemeanor with potential jail time and a permanent record. A shoplifting charge lawyer Prince George County can seek diversion, challenge evidence, and work to protect your future.
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 1-20 years in prison.
What should I do if I am accused of theft in Prince George County?
1. Do not discuss the case with anyone but your attorney. 2. Contact a petit larceny defense lawyer Prince George County immediately. 3. Gather any evidence or witness information that supports your side. 4. Attend all court dates.
Related Pages: For other charges, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. For help in nearby areas, consult a criminal defense lawyer in Henrico County or a criminal defense lawyer in Chesterfield County. For different legal issues in Prince George County, see our DUI lawyer or divorce lawyer.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.