Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Augusta County — What Are Your Options?
Petit larceny in Augusta 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 documented results in Augusta County. A petit larceny defense lawyer Augusta County can challenge the prosecution’s evidence and seek dismissal or reduction of charges. Contact us 24/7 for a consultation.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods valued under $1,000. Under Virginia law, this is a Class 1 misdemeanor. The charge is prosecuted in the Augusta County General District Court, located at 6 East Johnson Street, 2nd Floor, Staunton. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses.
Last verified: April 2026 | Augusta 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 Augusta County General District Court website.
Augusta County Court Process for Theft Charges
In Augusta County, prosecutors from the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office handle petit larceny cases. The court process moves quickly after an arrest or summons.
- Receive a summons or warrant. Appear for arraignment at Augusta County GDC.
- Enter a plea of not guilty. Request a trial date.
- Your attorney will file motions, review evidence, and negotiate with the prosecutor.
- Proceed to a bench trial in GDC or appeal to Circuit Court for a jury trial.
- If convicted, argue for minimal penalties or alternative sentencing.
- If eligible, file for expungement after a dismissal or not guilty verdict.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Augusta County
In Augusta County, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500, plus court costs and potential restitution.
| 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 | Criminal record, restitution, difficulty finding employment |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Augusta County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. We have a documented record of case results. Our approach is case-specific and focused on the details of your situation.
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 attorneys have achieved favorable outcomes in theft cases. For example, we have secured dismissals and reductions to nolle prosequi for clients charged with petit larceny in Virginia courts. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our team includes former prosecutor Kristen Fisher, whose insight into how cases are built can be a significant advantage in defending against a shoplifting charge lawyer Augusta County clients may face.
Petit Larceny Defense Near Augusta County
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients at the Augusta County courts. We represent clients from Staunton, Waynesboro, Fishersville, Stuarts Draft, Verona, and Churchville. 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
505 N Main St #103, Woodstock, VA 22664, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for petit larceny in Augusta County, Virginia?
Up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-96. Cases are heard at Augusta County General District Court. A strong defense is critical to avoid a permanent record.
Can a petit larceny charge be dropped in Augusta County?
It depends. A prosecutor may drop charges if evidence is weak. Participation in a first-offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 can also lead to dismissal. An attorney can negotiate for these outcomes or win at trial.
Do I need a lawyer for a shoplifting charge in Augusta County?
Yes. Even a first-time misdemeanor charge carries jail time and creates a permanent record. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases. A shoplifting charge lawyer Augusta County can protect your rights and work toward the best possible result.
What is the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny in Virginia?
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, with potential prison time of 1 to 20 years.
How can a misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Augusta County help me?
A lawyer can challenge the evidence, argue for suppressed statements or improper identification, negotiate for alternative programs, and represent you at trial. Early involvement by a defense attorney often leads to better outcomes.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other charges, we also handle DUI defense in Augusta County and family law matters. For more information on Virginia criminal defense, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page. We also serve neighboring areas like Shenandoah County.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.