Grand Larceny Lawyer New Kent County — Defending Felony Theft Charges
Grand larceny in New Kent County is a felony under Va. Code § 18.2-95, defined as theft of property valued at $1,000 or more. A conviction can result in 1 to 20 years in prison. As a Grand Larceny Lawyer New Kent County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for felony theft charges.
Virginia Grand Larceny Law and Penalties
In Virginia, grand larceny is a serious felony offense. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-95, defines it as the theft of money, goods, or other property valued at $1,000 or more. The threshold was raised from $200 to $1,000 in 2018, but the penalties remain severe. Theft of certain items, like firearms, is always grand larceny regardless of value.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-95 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the New Kent County Courts website.
Defending a Grand Larceny Charge in New Kent County
Facing a grand larceny charge requires immediate action. In New Kent County, these cases are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and begin with a preliminary hearing in the New Kent County General District Court. A felony trial would be held in the New Kent County Circuit Court. A skilled felony theft defense lawyer New Kent County can challenge the evidence, question the property valuation, and explore defenses such as claim of right or lack of intent.
- Initial Consultation & Case Review: Contact a defense attorney immediately after arrest or charge. We review the arrest report, evidence, and valuation methods.
- Preliminary Hearing Strategy: At the General District Court hearing, your attorney can challenge probable cause, potentially getting the felony charge reduced or dismissed before it goes to Circuit Court.
- Negotiation & Motion Practice: Before trial, we file motions to suppress evidence and negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction to petit larceny (a misdemeanor) or another favorable disposition.
- Trial Preparation: If a plea agreement isn’t in your best interest, we prepare a vigorous defense for a jury trial in New Kent County Circuit Court, focusing on intent and valuation.
Potential Penalties for Grand Larceny in Virginia
In New Kent County, grand larceny is a felony punishable by 1 to 20 years in prison, or at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Larceny (Value $1,000+) | Felony | 1 – 20 years* | Up to $2,500 | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, difficulty finding employment. |
| Grand Larceny (Firearm) | Felony | Mandatory minimum sentence applies. | Court discretion | Same as above, plus severe federal restrictions. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
*A jury may choose to punish a grand larceny conviction as a Class 1 misdemeanor, with a maximum of 12 months in jail.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We have handled thousands of criminal matters, developing a deep understanding of how to defend against theft allegations. Our approach involves a detailed analysis of the prosecution’s evidence, especially the methods used to value the stolen property—a critical element in any grand theft charge lawyer New Kent County case.
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 commitment to defense is reflected in our track record. In New Kent County, we have documented criminal case results. For example, our team has successfully argued for the reduction of felony charges to misdemeanors and secured dismissals where the evidence was lacking. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our New Kent County Grand Larceny Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients throughout New Kent County, including in New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton. We are accessible via I-64 and Route 33.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Grand Larceny Defense FAQs
What is the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny in Virginia?
The key difference is value. Petit larceny is theft of property valued under $1,000 and is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Grand larceny is theft of property valued at $1,000 or more and is a felony. Theft of a firearm is always grand larceny.
Can a grand larceny charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends. A skilled felony theft defense lawyer New Kent County can often negotiate a reduction to petit larceny, especially for first-time offenders or if there are weaknesses in the prosecution’s valuation evidence. This avoids a felony conviction.
What are the defenses to a grand larceny charge?
Common defenses include mistaken identity, lack of intent to steal (claim of right), mistaken valuation of property (arguing value is under $1,000), insufficient evidence, or unlawful search and seizure. Each case is unique.
Do I need a lawyer for a grand larceny charge?
Yes. Grand larceny is a felony with potential prison time. The legal process is complex, involving preliminary hearings and possible jury trials. A grand theft charge lawyer New Kent County is essential to protect your rights and build a defense.
Where is the New Kent County courthouse for criminal cases?
Misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings are at the New Kent County General District Court, 12001 Courthouse Circle, New Kent, VA 23124. Felony jury trials are at the New Kent County Circuit Court at the same address.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you are facing other charges, explore our services as a DUI lawyer in New Kent County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.