Grand Larceny Lawyer Chesterfield County, VA
If you are facing a grand larceny charge in Chesterfield County, Virginia, the stakes are high. Under Virginia law, grand larceny is a felony offense that can carry significant penalties, including a prison sentence and a permanent criminal record. The case will be heard in Chesterfield County Circuit Court after a preliminary hearing in Chesterfield County General District Court. The firm’s Richmond Location serves clients throughout the county, from Midlothian and Chester to Bon Air and Colonial Heights. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, represents individuals charged with grand larceny in Virginia. Mr. Sris, the firm’s Owner and Founder, and his Of Counsel team bring extensive experience in criminal defense to every matter. Reach the firm at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Grand Larceny Means in Chesterfield County
Grand larceny in Virginia is defined by Va. Code § 18.2-95. A person commits grand larceny if they take property valued at $1,000 or more, or if they take any item directly from another person (larceny from the person) with a value of $5 or more. The $1,000 threshold applies to simple larceny—theft that is not from the person. Grand larceny is a felony offense, and the case proceeds through the Chesterfield County courts. The Chesterfield County General District Court, located at 9500 Courthouse Road, handles the preliminary hearing for felony charges. If the judge finds probable cause, the case is certified to the Chesterfield County Circuit Court for trial. The Twelfth Judicial District serves the county, and the Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes criminal cases on behalf of the state.
Grand larceny is not a single type of theft. It may involve shoplifting merchandise above the felony threshold, taking another person’s property through deception, or stealing a firearm, which is always grand larceny under the statute regardless of the weapon’s value. Because the offense is classified as a felony, a conviction can result in the loss of civil rights, including the right to vote and the right to possess firearms. The court process can be intimidating, and the consequences extend beyond any sentence the judge imposes.
In Virginia, theft of property valued at $1,000 or more is grand larceny, a felony under Va. Code § 18.2-95.
Source: Virginia Code § 18.2-95. Read the statute
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York.
A grand larceny conviction in Virginia is punishable by imprisonment for not less than one nor more than 20 years, or, at the discretion of the jury or the court if tried without a jury, by confinement in jail for a period not exceeding 12 months and a fine of not more than $2,500, either or both.
Source: Virginia Code § 18.2-95. Read the statute
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Grand Larceny Cases
The legal team at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. approaches each grand larceny case with a focus on the client’s specific circumstances. Representation begins with a careful review of the evidence—police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and any documentation related to the property’s value. Because grand larceny often turns on the valuation of the allegedly stolen goods, challenging the state’s ability to prove the $1,000 threshold is a common line of defense. Where the evidence does not support a felony charge, the firm works to negotiate a reduction to a misdemeanor, which carries far less severe consequences.
The firm appears at both the general district court and the circuit court in Chesterfield County. At the preliminary hearing stage, the focus is on testing the prosecution’s case and identifying weaknesses early. If the matter proceeds to trial, the team is prepared to challenge the sufficiency of the evidence, question witness credibility, and present any applicable defenses. While no attorney can promise a particular outcome, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work toward the most favorable resolution under the facts of each case. Results may vary.
About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced law since 1997. He is a former prosecutor and is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). His background includes experience with a range of criminal matters, and he draws on that experience when representing clients facing felony charges in Chesterfield County.
The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring additional depth to the criminal defense practice. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel provide a team-based approach to grand larceny defense, ensuring that each client’s case receives careful attention at every stage of the proceedings. The firm’s Richmond Location is at 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225, by appointment only. Reach the firm at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is grand larceny in Virginia?
Grand larceny is the theft of property valued at $1,000 or more, or the taking of any item directly from another person, regardless of value. Under Va. Code § 18.2-95, the offense is a felony. The value threshold distinguishes grand larceny from petit larceny, which covers theft of property valued at less than $1,000. A charge of grand larceny is heard in the Chesterfield County General District Court for a preliminary hearing and, if certified, proceeds to Chesterfield County Circuit Court for trial.
What are the penalties for grand larceny in Chesterfield County?
A grand larceny conviction can result in a prison sentence of one to 20 years, or at the discretion of the jury or judge, up to 12 months in jail and a fine up to $2,500. The court determines the sentence based on factors such as the defendant’s prior record, the circumstances of the offense, and any mitigating evidence presented. A felony conviction also carries collateral consequences, including the loss of certain civil rights.
How does the court process work for grand larceny in Chesterfield County?
Grand larceny cases begin with an initial appearance and possible bond determination before a magistrate, followed by a preliminary hearing in the Chesterfield County General District Court. If the judge finds probable cause, the case is certified to the Chesterfield County Circuit Court, where the defendant is arraigned and a trial date is set. A defendant may elect to have the trial heard by a jury. The timeline for the court process depends on the court’s calendar and the complexity of the case.
Do I need a lawyer for a grand larceny charge in Chesterfield County?
Yes, a grand larceny charge is a serious felony, and legal representation is critical. A lawyer can evaluate the evidence, identify procedural issues, negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, and represent you at both the preliminary hearing and, if necessary, the circuit court trial. Attempting to handle the case without counsel puts you at a disadvantage at every stage of the process. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation.
What are possible defenses to grand larceny?
Common defenses include challenging the valuation of the property to bring the charge below the $1,000 threshold, arguing that the defendant had a claim of right to the property, or asserting that the identification of the defendant is mistaken. The specific defense strategy depends on the facts of the case. An experienced attorney examines the evidence for weaknesses and develops the most appropriate approach.
How does bail work for grand larceny in Chesterfield County?
After an arrest, a magistrate sets bail based on factors such as the nature of the offense, the defendant’s ties to the community, and prior criminal history. For a felony like grand larceny, secured bond is common. The bail amount can be reviewed by the Chesterfield County General District Court. A lawyer can present arguments for a reduction of bail or for release on recognizance.
Can a grand larceny charge be reduced or dismissed?
Yes, a grand larceny charge may be reduced to a misdemeanor, such as petit larceny, or dismissed if the evidence is insufficient. The Commonwealth’s Attorney may agree to amend the charge if the value of the property cannot be proven to reach the $1,000 threshold or if other evidentiary weaknesses exist. Every case is unique, and outcomes depend on the specific facts. Results may vary.
What is the difference between grand larceny and petit larceny in Virginia?
The primary difference is the value of the property taken: grand larceny involves property worth $1,000 or more (or any theft from the person), while petit larceny involves property worth less than $1,000. Petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine up to $2,500. Grand larceny is a felony with more severe penalties. Both are prosecuted in the court system of Chesterfield County.
What should I do if I am accused of grand larceny in Chesterfield County?
If you are accused of grand larceny, remain silent and do not discuss the allegations with anyone other than your lawyer. Do not attempt to explain the situation to law enforcement without counsel present. Contact an attorney as soon as possible to begin working on your defense. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.
How does Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel approach a grand larceny defense?
The team at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., reviews the evidence thoroughly, identifies the strong $1s, and works to achieve the most favorable resolution available. The approach may involve challenging the value of the property, contesting the identification of the defendant, or negotiating a reduction of the charge. The firm draws on decades of legal experience to guide clients through the criminal justice process in Chesterfield County.
Primary Legal Sources
Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses Generally) | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia Circuit Courts
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Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.