Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Virginia Beach — What Are Your Options?
Petit larceny in Virginia Beach 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 defense for theft charges under $1,000. A petit larceny defense lawyer Virginia Beach from our firm can challenge evidence and seek dismissal or reduction. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
In Virginia, petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods valued at less than $1,000. This charge is governed by Va. Code § 18.2-96. The case is prosecuted by the Virginia Beach Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Virginia Beach General District Court located at 2425 Nimmo Parkway, Bldg 10B. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has a background in handling financial and property crime cases.
Virginia Beach Petit Larceny Court Process
Virginia Beach General District Court handles all misdemeanor petit larceny trials. Prosecutors often seek restitution and may offer first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2. A strong defense focuses on intent, value, and identification.
- Receive a summons or warrant for petit larceny.
- Attend your arraignment at Virginia Beach General District Court to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review evidence, including surveillance footage and witness statements.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for dismissal, reduction, or a first-offender program.
- Prepare for trial if a favorable plea cannot be reached.
- If convicted, seek an appeal to Virginia Beach Circuit Court for a new trial.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Virginia Beach
In Virginia Beach, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, plus potential restitution to the victim.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Value < $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, restitution, difficulty finding employment |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Virginia Beach Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We have documented 4,739+ case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our approach is case-specific, using detailed review of evidence and local court knowledge.
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 firm has secured favorable results in theft cases. In Fairfax County GDC, we have achieved dismissals and reductions to nolle prosequi for charges of petit larceny under $200. For example, one case under Va. Code § 18.2-96 was dismissed, and another was reduced to a nolle prosequi.
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. His background in accounting and information systems is an asset in theft cases involving financial evidence.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Richmond location serves clients in Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. We are accessible via I-264 and I-64. If you need a petit larceny defense lawyer Virginia Beach or a shoplifting charge lawyer Virginia Beach, contact us for a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for petit larceny in Virginia Beach?
Up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-96. The court may also order restitution to the victim.
Can a petit larceny charge be dropped in Virginia Beach?
It depends. Charges may be dropped if evidence is weak, the value is disputed, or the defendant completes a first-offender program. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Virginia Beach can negotiate with the prosecutor for a dismissal or nolle prosequi.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time shoplifting charge?
Yes. Even a first offense creates a permanent criminal record. A shoplifting charge lawyer Virginia Beach can seek alternative resolutions like a first-offender program to avoid a conviction.
What is the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny?
The value of the stolen goods. 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 can a lawyer help with a petit larceny case?
A petit larceny defense lawyer Virginia Beach can challenge the evidence, question the valuation of items, negotiate for a reduction, or argue for a first-offender program to get the charge dismissed.
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense hub. We also assist clients in Henrico County and with DUI charges in Virginia Beach.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current legal guidance.