Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Virginia — What Are Your Options?
Petit larceny in Virginia is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-96, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for these charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia General District Courts | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods valued at less than $1,000. It is prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-96. This statute classifies the offense as a Class 1 misdemeanor. The prosecution must prove you intentionally took property belonging to another without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. Defenses often challenge the value of the item, the intent to steal, or mistaken identity. The case is heard in the local General District Court, such as the Fairfax County General District Court.
Local Court Process for Petit Larceny
In Virginia General District Courts, petit larceny cases follow a standard misdemeanor procedure. Prosecutors often seek convictions, but an experienced misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Virginia can identify weaknesses. For example, store security footage may be unclear, or witness identification may be faulty.
- Receive a summons or warrant and appear for arraignment.
- Your attorney will review all evidence, including police reports and witness statements.
- Pre-trial negotiations with the prosecutor may lead to a reduction or dismissal.
- If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge.
- If convicted, your attorney can argue for minimal penalties or alternative sentencing.
- Explore expungement eligibility if the case is dismissed or you are found not guilty.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Virginia
In Virginia, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
| 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 directly | Permanent criminal record, difficulty finding employment, immigration consequences for non-citizens. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Virginia Criminal Defense Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing theft charges across Virginia. Our approach is direct and focused on the specific details of your case.
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 have successfully defended clients against petit larceny charges in Virginia courts. For instance, we have secured dismissals for charges of petit larceny under $200 in Fairfax County General District Court. In another case, a charge was reduced to a nolle prosequi (dropped by the prosecutor).
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firm-wide, SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, provides strategic oversight on complex matters.
Contact a Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Virginia
Our Fairfax location is centrally located to serve Northern Virginia, accessible via I-66, I-495, and Route 50. We are a trusted petit larceny defense lawyer Virginia near Fairfax County Courthouse and serve communities like Burke, Centreville, and Reston.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
FAQs: Virginia Petit Larceny Charges
What is the penalty for petit larceny in Virginia?
Petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500, plus a permanent criminal record.
Can a petit larceny charge be dropped in Virginia?
It depends. A prosecutor may drop a charge (nolle prosequi) if evidence is weak, witness testimony is unreliable, or through a successful pre-trial motion filed by your misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Virginia. Diversion programs for first-time offenders can also lead to dismissal upon completion.
Is shoplifting the same as petit larceny in Virginia?
Yes. Shoplifting is typically charged as petit larceny under Va. Code § 18.2-96 if the merchandise value is under $1,000. A shoplifting charge lawyer Virginia can defend against these allegations.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time petit larceny charge?
Yes. Even a first-time conviction carries jail time and a lifelong record that affects employment and housing. An attorney can often negotiate for a diversion program to avoid a conviction entirely.
What is the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny?
The key difference is the value of the stolen property. Theft of items valued under $1,000 is petit larceny (misdemeanor). Theft of $1,000 or more is grand larceny, which is a felony in Virginia with much more severe penalties.
For more information on related charges, see our pages on Virginia criminal defense or criminal defense in Fairfax County. If you are also facing other legal issues, consider a reckless driving lawyer in Fairfax.