Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Manassas — Can Your Charge Be Dismissed?
A petit larceny charge in Manassas 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. provides a strong defense for theft under $1,000 charges at Manassas General District Court. Our petit larceny defense lawyer Manassas team has handled numerous local cases.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Petit Larceny Law & Penalties
Petit larceny, defined as the theft of goods valued under $1,000, is a Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-96, establishes the maximum penalties. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses. Cases are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Manassas General District Court. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, focuses on building defenses against these charges.
Defending Petit Larceny & Shoplifting Charges in Manassas
An effective defense requires immediate action. In Manassas, prosecutors may offer first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon completion. However, eligibility is not automatic. A skilled misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Manassas can negotiate for this outcome or challenge the evidence. Common defenses include lack of intent, mistaken identity, or questioning the value of the alleged stolen property. The procedural steps in Manassas GDC are critical to handle correctly.
- Case Review & Strategy: Immediately after arrest or summons, consult with a petit larceny defense lawyer Manassas to review the police report and evidence.
- Court Appearance (Arraignment): Attend your first hearing at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110, to enter a plea.
- Negotiation & Motions: Your attorney will engage with the prosecutor, potentially file motions to suppress evidence, and seek a favorable resolution.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial before a judge in GDC. An experienced shoplifting charge lawyer Manassas can present your defense.
- Appeal or Expungement: If convicted, you can appeal to Manassas Circuit Court for a new trial. If the case is dismissed, you may later file for expungement.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Virginia
In Manassas, a petit larceny conviction is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail, a fine up to $2,500, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Theft under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent criminal record; impacts employment, housing, professional licenses |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Defense Approach in Manassas
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands how the Commonwealth builds its cases. We use this insight to develop counter-strategies, whether through challenging the proof of intent, the valuation of property, or securing alternative dispositions like first-offender programs. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
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 for Theft Charges
Our attorneys work to achieve the best possible outcome. In past cases, we have secured dismissals and reductions for clients facing petit larceny charges. For example, in Fairfax County GDC, we have achieved results such as “Dismissed” or “REDUCED TO NOLLE PROSEQUI” for charges under Va. Code § 18.2-96. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, provides strategic oversight on complex matters.
Contact Our Manassas Defense Lawyers
Our Fairfax location serves clients in Manassas and is centrally located for court at 9311 Lee Avenue. We are a petit larceny defense lawyer Manassas residents can consult for 24/7 phone support and in-person meetings by appointment. We serve Manassas and surrounding communities.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Petit Larceny Defense FAQs in Manassas
What is the penalty for petit larceny in Manassas, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Cases are heard at Manassas General District Court.
Can a first-time shoplifting charge be dismissed in Manassas?
It depends. Prosecutors may offer a first-offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2. Successful completion often leads to dismissal. An experienced shoplifting charge lawyer Manassas can advocate for your eligibility.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor theft charge?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor carries jail time and a permanent record. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Manassas can protect your rights and seek to avoid a conviction.
What is the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny?
The key difference is the value of the stolen property. Petit larceny involves property valued under $1,000 and is a misdemeanor. Grand larceny involves $1,000 or more and is a felony in Virginia.
How does a petit larceny charge affect my record?
A conviction results in a permanent criminal record accessible to employers and landlords. This can hinder job prospects, housing applications, and professional licensing.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing criminal charges in Manassas, you may also need information on related areas. Our firm also handles DUI defense in Manassas and family law matters in Manassas. For a broader view of our criminal defense practice, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Fairfax County.
Last updated: April 2026.