Felony Theft Lawyer Albemarle County — Defending Grand Larceny Charges
A felony theft lawyer Albemarle County is essential when facing grand larceny charges under Va. Code § 18.2-95, which carries 1-20 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for felony stealing charges in Albemarle County. Our Richmond location serves clients at the Albemarle County General District Court at 350 Park Street, Charlottesville.
Last verified: April 2026 | Albemarle County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Felony Theft Law & Grand Larceny
In Virginia, theft of property valued at $1,000 or more is classified as grand larceny, a felony offense. The primary statute is Va. Code § 18.2-95. Grand larceny is punishable by 1 to 20 years in the state penitentiary, though for a Class 5 or Class 6 felony, a jury or judge may reduce the punishment to confinement in jail for not more than twelve months and a fine of not more than $2,500. A felony theft lawyer Albemarle County must handle these severe penalties. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to such serious cases.
Official Legal Resources
For the official Virginia statute on grand larceny, refer to the Virginia General Assembly website (Va. Code § 18.2-95). Court information, including forms and procedures, can be found on the Albemarle County General District Court website.
Defending Felony Theft Charges in Albemarle County
Albemarle County prosecutors vigorously pursue grand larceny cases, especially those involving significant value or repeat offenses. The key is challenging the evidence of value and intent. A grand larceny defense lawyer Albemarle County from our team examines police reports, witness statements, and valuation methods for weaknesses.
- Initial Court Appearance: Your first hearing will be at Albemarle County General District Court for a bond hearing and to set a date for a preliminary hearing.
- Preliminary Hearing: The Commonwealth must show probable cause that a felony was committed. Your attorney can cross-examine witnesses and argue for a reduction or dismissal.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If the case proceeds, it is certified to Albemarle County Circuit Court for formal arraignment on an indictment.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will file motions to suppress evidence and challenge the prosecution’s case, focusing on the value of the property.
- Plea or Trial: Based on the evidence, your attorney will advise on negotiating a plea to a lesser charge or preparing for a jury trial.
Penalties for Felony Theft in Virginia
In Albemarle County, felony theft (grand larceny) is a felony punishable by 1 to 20 years in prison, with possible jury reduction to up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine for Class 5 or 6 felonies.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony (Class 5/6) | 1-20 years (or up to 12 months jail) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, firearm restrictions, employment hurdles |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Felony Theft Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, operates on the principle of “Advocacy Without Borders.” With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and a documented 4,739+ case results firm-wide, we bring substantial resources to every case. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing unique insight into how the other side builds cases. For a felony stealing charge lawyer Albemarle County residents can trust, our depth of experience is critical.
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 & Defense Strategy
Our approach focuses on the core elements the prosecution must prove: the unlawful taking and the value of the property. We have secured favorable outcomes, such as amending felony charges to misdemeanors or obtaining dismissals. For instance, in a related jurisdiction, our team successfully amended a felony charge to a non-criminal traffic offense. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, ensuring every defense is thorough.
Felony Theft Defense Serving Albemarle County
Our Richmond location represents clients facing charges at the Albemarle County General District Court (350 Park Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902), accessible via I-64 and Route 29. We are a trusted felony theft lawyer near Charlottesville, serving the Charlottesville area, Crozet, Earlysville, Ivy, and North Garden.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
By appointment only.
Felony Theft Defense FAQs in Albemarle County
What is the difference between grand larceny and petit larceny in Virginia?
The value of the stolen property. Theft of property valued at $1,000 or more is grand larceny, a felony. Theft under $1,000 is petit larceny, a misdemeanor. The valuation method and the item’s fair market value are often key defense points.
Can a grand larceny felony be reduced to a misdemeanor?
Yes. A skilled grand larceny defense lawyer Albemarle County can negotiate a reduction to petit larceny or another misdemeanor, often in exchange for a plea. Success depends on the evidence, the defendant’s record, and the strength of the defense’s challenges to the property’s value.
What are the long-term consequences of a felony theft conviction?
Beyond prison time, a felony conviction creates a permanent criminal record. This can lead to loss of voting rights, difficulty finding employment, ineligibility for certain professional licenses, restrictions on firearm ownership, and challenges in securing housing or loans.
Do I need a lawyer for a felony theft charge in Albemarle County?
Absolutely. The potential penalties are too severe to handle alone. An experienced felony stealing charge lawyer Albemarle County can protect your rights, challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and advocate for the best possible outcome, whether a dismissal, reduction, or acquittal.
What should I do if I am arrested for felony theft?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. Contact a felony theft lawyer Albemarle County from our firm at (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation. We can advise you on the next steps and begin building your defense.
Contact a Felony Theft Lawyer Albemarle County Today
If you are facing grand larceny charges, immediate action is crucial. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a confidential consultation. We will review the details of your case and outline a defense strategy case-specific to protect your future. Call our felony theft lawyer Albemarle County team 24/7.
Internal Resources: For more information on criminal defense in Virginia, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby jurisdictions like Henrico County and with related charges such as DUI in Albemarle County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.