Petit Larceny Lawyer Prince George County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Petit larceny in Prince George County 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. has documented results defending theft charges in Prince George County General District Court. A strong defense is critical to avoid a permanent criminal record.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince George County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny, defined in Va. Code § 18.2-96, is the theft of goods valued at less than $1,000. It is distinct from grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more), which is a felony. The statute requires the prosecution to prove you intentionally took someone else’s property without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. The value of the property is a key element, often determined by receipts or owner testimony. A petit larceny lawyer Prince George County can challenge the evidence on value and intent.
Official Legal Resources
For the official Virginia statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Prince George County General District Court website.
Prince George County Court Process for Theft Charges
All petit larceny cases in Prince George County begin at the Prince George County General District Court at 6601 Courts Drive. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases. The court offers first offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon successful completion. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Prince George County can handle this local procedure.
- Receive a summons or warrant for petit larceny.
- Attend your arraignment at Prince George County General District Court to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review discovery (police reports, witness statements, video) and file pre-trial motions if needed.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction, dismissal, or diversion program.
- If no agreement is reached, proceed to a bench trial before a judge in General District Court.
- You have an absolute right to appeal a guilty verdict to Prince George County Circuit Court for a new jury trial.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Virginia
In Prince George County, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| 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, difficulty finding employment, loss of professional licenses. |
| Shoplifting (form of petit larceny) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Civil demand letter from store for damages, possible trespass ban. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. We focus on building strong defenses for clients facing misdemeanor charges like petit larceny. Our approach is based on detailed case analysis and knowledge of local court procedures.
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 firm has a documented result in Prince George County. In other Virginia jurisdictions, our attorneys have achieved dismissals and reductions for petit larceny charges. For example, in Fairfax County GDC, we have secured dismissals for charges under Va. Code § 18.2-96. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney, Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, brings decades of experience and a record of amending Virginia law to complex case strategy.
Petit Larceny Defense Near Prince George County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Prince George County courts. We are accessible via I-295, Route 10, and Route 36. We provide representation for residents in Prince George and the Hopewell area.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Prince George County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor, like petit larceny, carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Cases are heard at Prince George County General District Court.
Can a shoplifting charge be dropped in Virginia?
It depends. A shoplifting charge lawyer Prince George County can seek a dismissal through a first offender program, negotiate with the prosecutor for a nolle prosequi (drop), or win at trial by challenging the evidence of intent or value. Successful completion of terms like community service may lead to dismissal.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time petit larceny charge?
Yes. Even a first-time conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licensing. An attorney can seek diversion programs to avoid a conviction altogether.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Prince George County?
Prince George County General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Prince George County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense with potential jail time.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Prince George County, Virginia?
Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Prince George County Circuit Court.
Internal Links: For more information, see 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, consider our Prince George County DUI lawyer or family law services.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.