Felony Theft Lawyer Augusta County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Felony theft in Augusta County is prosecuted as grand larceny under Va. Code § 18.2-95, a felony carrying 1-20 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented case results in the Shenandoah Valley. A felony theft lawyer Augusta County can challenge evidence and seek reduced charges. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation by appointment.
Last verified: April 2026 | Augusta County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
In Virginia, theft of property valued at $1,000 or more is classified as grand larceny, a felony offense. The specific statute governing this crime is Va. Code § 18.2-95. This is a more serious charge than petit larceny (theft under $1,000), which is a misdemeanor. The distinction is critical because a felony conviction carries long-term consequences beyond potential incarceration, including difficulty finding employment, housing, and the loss of certain civil rights. The prosecution must prove you intentionally took property belonging to another with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it, and that the value of the property met or exceeded the $1,000 threshold.
For official state law, refer to the Va. Code § 18.2-95 (official Virginia General Assembly website). Court procedures and filings for Augusta County cases are handled through the Augusta County General District Court website.
If you are charged with felony theft in Augusta County, your case will begin at the Augusta County General District Court for a preliminary hearing. This court determines if there is probable cause to send the felony charge to Circuit Court for a jury trial. Understanding the local process is vital.
- You will be arraigned and informed of the charges at the Augusta County General District Court.
- Your attorney will file motions to review and potentially suppress evidence before the preliminary hearing.
- A preliminary hearing is held where the Commonwealth must show probable cause for the felony charge.
- If the case proceeds, it is certified to the Augusta County Circuit Court for potential trial or plea negotiations.
- Your attorney will engage in discovery, review all evidence, and prepare a defense strategy for trial or negotiate for a favorable resolution.
In Augusta County, felony theft (grand larceny) is a felony punishable by 1 to 20 years in prison, though sentences can vary based on criminal history and case specifics.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Larceny (Theft of $1,000+) | Felony | 1 – 20 years | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, firearm restrictions |
| Grand Larceny from a Person | Felony | 2 – 20 years | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Enhanced penalties, violent felony designation |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to complex criminal defense. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. This depth of experience is critical when building a defense against serious felony charges where the stakes are your future.
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 attorneys have achieved favorable results in theft-related cases. In one instance, a client facing a felony charge of Obtaining Money by False Pretenses valued over $200 saw the charge reduced to a misdemeanor with a suspended sentence. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. For a grand larceny defense lawyer Augusta County, the strategic insight of a former prosecutor like Mr. Sris can be key in case analysis and negotiation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Shenandoah/Woodstock
505 N Main St #103, Woodstock, VA 22664, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients at the Augusta County courts. As a felony theft lawyer near Augusta County, we are accessible via I-81 and Route 11. We serve communities throughout the region including Staunton, Waynesboro, Fishersville, Stuarts Draft, Verona, and Churchville. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. All meetings are by appointment only.
Felony Theft Defense FAQs for Augusta County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Augusta County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Augusta County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at Augusta County General District Court (6 East Johnson Street, 2nd Floor, Staunton, VA 24401). 13 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate)
Can criminal charges be expunged in Augusta County, Virginia?
Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Augusta County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 13 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate)
How does bail work in Augusta County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Augusta County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Augusta County General District Court. Bond amount set by magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%); public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony)
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Augusta County, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Augusta County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Augusta County General District Court (6 East Johnson Street, 2nd Floor, Staunton, VA 24401). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 13 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate) Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a Consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Augusta County?
Augusta County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Augusta County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time. Augusta County General District Court (6 East Johnson Street, 2nd Floor, Staunton, VA 24401) is the GDC location.
If you are facing theft charges, it is important to understand your options. For related legal matters in Augusta County, you may also need a DUI lawyer or a family law attorney. For more information on criminal defense across Virginia, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Shenandoah County and Rockingham County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures can change. For the most current advice regarding felony theft charges in Augusta County, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.