Petit Larceny Lawyer Virginia Beach — What Are Your Defense 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. has documented case results in Virginia Beach. A dedicated petit larceny lawyer Virginia Beach can challenge the prosecution’s evidence and seek dismissal or reduction of your charge. Contact us 24/7 for a case review.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law and Penalties
Petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods valued at less than $1,000. It is prosecuted under Virginia Code § 18.2-96. This statute is the foundation for all theft charges involving property below the felony threshold. The law requires the Commonwealth to prove you intentionally took and carried away another’s property without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, whose background in accounting provides a distinct advantage in analyzing theft-related evidence and financial records.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures for Virginia Beach cases are managed by the Virginia Beach General District Court.
Virginia Beach Court Process for Theft Charges
In Virginia Beach, all petit larceny cases begin at the Virginia Beach General District Court. Prosecutors from the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office handle these cases. A key local procedural fact is that first-time offenders may be eligible for a first offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon successful completion. The court is located at 2425 Nimmo Parkway.
- Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the petit larceny charge and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge if procedural errors occurred.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will engage with the prosecutor to seek a reduction, diversion program, or dismissal.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge in General District Court.
- Appeal: If convicted, you have an automatic right to appeal for a new trial in Virginia Beach Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Petit Larceny in Virginia
In Virginia Beach, a petit larceny conviction carries a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, plus 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 | Permanent criminal record; impacts employment, housing, professional licenses. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Virginia Beach Theft Defense Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. Our approach is grounded in a detailed review of the evidence against you. We examine store security footage, witness statements, and police reports for inconsistencies or violations of your rights. For a shoplifting charge lawyer Virginia Beach, this meticulous approach is critical to building a strong defense.
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
Our team includes seasoned attorneys like Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney who joined the firm in 2010. Her prosecutorial background provides critical insight into how the other side builds a theft case, allowing for more effective defense strategies.
Documented Case Results
Our firm has a record of achieving favorable outcomes in theft cases. In prior matters, we have secured dismissals and reductions of petit larceny charges. For example, in Fairfax County GDC, we have successfully had petit larceny charges dismissed or reduced to a nolle prosequi (dropped by the prosecutor).
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Petit Larceny Defense Serving Virginia Beach
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at Virginia Beach General District Court. We are accessible via I-264, I-64, and Route 44. We are a trusted petit larceny lawyer near Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for petit larceny in Virginia Beach?
A Class 1 misdemeanor, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. The case is heard at Virginia Beach General District Court.
Can a petit larceny charge be expunged in Virginia?
It depends. Expungement is generally available under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2 if the charge results in an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi. Most convictions cannot be expunged. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Virginia Beach can advise if your case qualifies.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time shoplifting charge?
Yes. Even a first-time charge is a serious misdemeanor with potential jail time. A shoplifting charge lawyer Virginia Beach can seek a first offender program to avoid a conviction on your record.
What’s the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny?
The key difference is the value of the stolen property. Petit larceny involves property valued under $1,000 and is a misdemeanor. Grand larceny involves property valued at $1,000 or more and is a felony.
How does bail work for a petit larceny arrest in Virginia Beach?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. For first-offense misdemeanors like petit larceny, personal recognizance (no payment) is common. A secured bond, requiring a bail bondsman, is more typical for felony charges.
For more information on related legal issues, see our pages on Virginia criminal defense, Henrico County criminal defense, and Virginia Beach DUI defense.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.