Petit Larceny Lawyer Prince George County, VA

Last reviewed: July 2026

A petit larceny charge in Prince George County can have lasting consequences — even a misdemeanor conviction under Virginia Code § 18.2-96 carries the possibility of jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel understand how Prince George County General District Court and Circuit Court operate. Our Of Counsel team includes a former Virginia State Trooper with substantial law enforcement and investigative experience, which offers a distinctive perspective when challenging evidence and examining police procedures. For a confidential consultation about your petit larceny matter, reach our firm at (888) 437-7747.

What Petit Larceny Means in Prince George County

Petit larceny in Virginia occurs when a person takes property valued at less than $1,000, without the use of force or a firearm, and without the property being taken directly from another person’s body. Under Virginia Code § 18.2-96, the offense is classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor. The maximum penalty is up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Shoplifting charges under § 18.2-103 follow the same threshold and grading structure.

In Prince George County, these charges are heard in the Prince George County General District Court at 6601 Courts Drive, Prince George, VA 23875. The General District Court handles misdemeanor trials, while any felony-level theft matter — such as grand larceny when the value exceeds $1,000 — proceeds through the Prince George County Circuit Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Prince George County prosecutes all criminal matters in both courts. Because Virginia judges do not participate in plea negotiations, any charge amendment must be approved by the prosecutor. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel appear regularly in Prince George County courts and are familiar with local procedural expectations, from the initial appearance through possible trial.

Prince George County sits south of Richmond along the I‑295 corridor, serving communities that include Prince George and the Hopewell area. Fort Gregg‑Adams (formerly Fort Lee) is a major nearby installation, which means military personnel and civilians connected to the base may face criminal charges in the county’s courts. Our firm’s Richmond location is well-positioned to serve clients throughout Prince George County, and we encourage anyone facing a petit larceny charge to seek legal advice at the earliest opportunity.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Petit Larceny Cases

When a client consults us, we begin by listening to the factual account of the incident and reviewing any charging documents, witness statements, or surveillance evidence. Because potential defenses often turn on the specifics of the alleged taking — whether the property was concealed, whether the value is overstated, or whether the interaction involved a misunderstanding — we scrutinize every piece of evidence for weaknesses. Our Of Counsel team includes a former Virginia State Trooper whose fifteen years of law enforcement service allow us to evaluate police reports, arrest procedures, and search-and-seizure compliance with an insider’s familiarity with police protocols.

We examine whether the property valuation is supported, whether any statements were obtained in violation of Miranda, and whether the evidence can be challenged through pretrial motions. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel also work with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to explore options that may include a deferred disposition under Virginia Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to a dismissal if certain conditions are met. If a trial is necessary, we prepare thoroughly, whether the matter is heard in General District Court or appealed to the Circuit Court for a jury trial.

Every case is assessed individually, and the defense strategy is tailored to the facts and the client’s objectives. We understand that a petit larceny conviction can affect employment, professional licensing, security clearances, and immigration status, and we strive to address both the immediate charge and the longer-term consequences.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has been practicing law since 1997. He is a former prosecutor whose earlier experience in criminal trial work informs the firm’s defense strategies. His legislative involvement includes testifying before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). Mr. Sris is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York, and his Of Counsel team brings multi-state experience to every criminal matter.

All of the firm’s non‑owner attorneys serve as Of Counsel — a term of art indicating an ongoing, close relationship with the firm. This structure allows us to engage attorneys with specific backgrounds that benefit our clients, including a former Virginia State Trooper whose fifteen‑year career in law enforcement included extensive criminal and traffic investigations in central and southern Virginia. Our Of Counsel team handles defense matters collaboratively, always under the supervision of Mr. Sris, and manages cases with the attention to procedural detail that the Prince George County courts require.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the penalty for petit larceny in Virginia?

Petit larceny in Virginia is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. The actual sentence depends on the defendant’s criminal history, the value of the property, and any mitigating factors. A first offense may be eligible for deferred disposition under Virginia Code § 19.2-303.2, which can result in dismissal after successful completion of probation. The charge is prosecuted in the General District Court; if the value exceeds the statutory amount for grand larceny, it becomes grand larceny, a felony heard in Circuit Court.

Where are petit larceny cases heard in Prince George County?

All petit larceny cases in Prince George County are initially heard at the Prince George County General District Court, located at 6601 Courts Drive, Prince George, VA 23875. This court has jurisdiction over misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. If a case is appealed or involves a felony charge, it moves to the Prince George County Circuit Court in the same building complex. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Prince George County prosecutes all criminal matters in both courts.

Can I get a petit larceny charge dismissed or expunged?

Yes, a petit larceny charge can be dismissed, and in certain circumstances the record may be expunged. Dismissal can occur through deferred disposition if the court and prosecutor agree, through a successful trial, or if the Commonwealth’s Attorney drops the charge. Virginia Code § 19.2-392.2 allows expungement of records related to an acquittal, a nolle prosequi, or a dismissal. Most convictions cannot be expunged, so avoiding a conviction is critical. Our firm works to identify the strongest path toward a favorable outcome early in the process.

What should I do if I am accused of petit larceny in Prince George County?

If you are accused of petit larceny, consult an attorney before speaking to police or the Commonwealth’s Attorney and do not discuss the facts of your case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve any receipts, bank statements, or other records that may show the property’s value or ownership. A quick response can help your attorney gather witness statements and surveillance footage before it is lost. Contacting a lawyer early allows for earlier engagement with the prosecutor, which can affect the direction of the case.

How does a lawyer defend against a petit larceny charge?

Defenses to petit larceny include challenging the evidence of intent, the valuation of the property, the legality of the search and arrest, and the sufficiency of eyewitness identification. A defense attorney may file motions to suppress evidence if police violated constitutional rights, question whether the property was actually taken without consent, or argue that the property was borrowed or abandoned. The attorney can also negotiate with the prosecutor to amend the charge to a less serious offense or pursue a deferred disposition. The appropriate strategy depends on the facts of the individual case.

What is the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny in Virginia?

Petit larceny involves property valued at less than $1,000 and is a Class 1 misdemeanor; grand larceny involves property valued at $1,000 or more, or taking property directly from a person, and is a felony under Virginia Code § 18.2-95. The distinction affects the court where the case is heard and the potential penalty. Grand larceny carries a possible sentence of 1 to 20 years in prison, though a jury has discretion to reduce it.

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