Petit Larceny Lawyer in Manassas, Virginia — What Are Your Defense Options?
Petit larceny 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. has extensive experience defending theft charges at the Manassas General District Court. A strong defense is critical to protect your record and future.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny, defined in Virginia Code § 18.2-96, is the theft of goods or services valued at less than $1,000. It is distinct from grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more), which is a felony. The statute covers common actions like shoplifting, taking property without permission, or failing to return borrowed items with intent to steal. The prosecution must prove you took the property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. Value is determined at the time of the theft, and multiple acts can be aggregated in some cases.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full legal text, refer to the Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly site). Court procedures and forms for Manassas cases are available through the Manassas General District Court website.
Manassas Court Process for Theft Charges
Your case will begin at the Manassas General District Court at 9311 Lee Avenue. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases. For first-time offenders, the court may consider diversion programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon completion. You have an absolute right to a jury trial, which would move your case to the Manassas Circuit Court.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge if procedural errors exist.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will discuss possible outcomes with the prosecutor, such as diversion, reduction, or dismissal.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC or a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing or Diversion: If found guilty, the judge will impose sentence. If diversion is completed, the charge is dismissed.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Manassas
In Manassas, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, and a permanent criminal record.
| 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 Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results. We understand the local Manassas court system and the specific strategies needed for misdemeanor theft defense.
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
Our attorneys have successfully defended numerous petit larceny charges. In Fairfax County General District Court, we have secured dismissals and reductions to nolle prosequi for clients charged under Va. Code § 18.2-96.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. His multi-state practice and experience amending Virginia law bring a high level of authority to our defense team.
Manassas Petit Larceny Lawyer Near You
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas General District Court. We are accessible via I-66 and Route 28. We provide legal representation for neighborhoods throughout Manassas.
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 — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for petit larceny in Manassas, Virginia?
Up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-96. Cases are heard at Manassas General District Court. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Manassas can work to avoid jail time.
Can a shoplifting charge be dropped in Manassas?
It depends. Prosecutors may drop a shoplifting charge if evidence is weak, procedural errors occurred, or through a first-offender diversion program. A shoplifting charge lawyer Manassas can evaluate your case and negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for the best possible outcome.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time petit larceny charge?
Yes. Even a first offense carries the potential for jail and creates a permanent criminal record. An attorney can seek diversion to get the charge dismissed, which you likely cannot secure on your own.
What is the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny?
The key difference is the value of the stolen property. Petit larceny involves property worth less than $1,000 and is a misdemeanor. Grand larceny involves property worth $1,000 or more and is a felony, carrying much more severe penalties.
Can a petit larceny conviction be expunged in Virginia?
No. Virginia law generally does not allow expungement of convictions. Only charges that resulted in an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi are eligible for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. This makes avoiding a conviction through defense or diversion critically important.