Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia
Petit larceny in Chesterfield 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 Chesterfield County General District Court. A petit larceny defense lawyer Chesterfield County can challenge the evidence and work to protect your record.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | 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 as a Class 1 misdemeanor. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses. The case is prosecuted by the Chesterfield County Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Chesterfield County General District Court located at 9500 Courthouse Road.
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings extensive experience to theft defense. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, is a former prosecutor with a background that provides a strategic advantage in building defenses.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court information, visit the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Defending a Petit Larceny Charge in Chesterfield County
In Chesterfield County, prosecutors must prove you intentionally took property belonging to another with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. Common defenses include lack of intent, mistaken identity, or ownership disputes. The value of the item is a critical element; if the prosecution cannot prove the value meets the $1,000 threshold, the charge may be reduced or dismissed.
- Receive a summons or warrant for petit larceny.
- Attend your arraignment at Chesterfield County General District Court to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review discovery, which includes police reports and witness statements.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a possible reduction or diversion program.
- Prepare for a bench trial in General District Court if no agreement is reached.
- If convicted, you have the right to appeal for a new trial in Chesterfield County Circuit Court.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Chesterfield County
In Chesterfield County, 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 | Permanent criminal record; impacts employment, housing, professional licenses |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Chesterfield County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have a combined 120+ years of legal experience. We have achieved over 4,739 case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In Chesterfield County, we have documented results defending theft-related charges. Our team understands the local procedures and prosecutors in Chesterfield County General District Court.
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 firm has a record of achieving positive outcomes for clients. In Chesterfield County, we have documented results including dismissals and reductions for various misdemeanor charges. For example, we have secured dismissals for charges such as profane language over a public airway and underage alcohol possession in Chesterfield General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Chesterfield County Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer
Our Richmond location serves clients in Chesterfield County. We are accessible via I-95, I-295, and Route 360. We are a petit larceny defense lawyer near Midlothian, Chester, and the Colonial Heights area.
We serve the communities of Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley.
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: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for petit larceny in Chesterfield County?
It is a Class 1 misdemeanor. The penalty is up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. A conviction also creates a permanent criminal record.
Can a shoplifting charge be reduced in Chesterfield County?
It depends. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Chesterfield County can often negotiate with the prosecutor. Factors like your record, the item’s value, and the circumstances can lead to a reduction to a lesser offense or entry into a first offender program.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time shoplifting charge?
Yes. Even a first offense is a crime with potential jail time. A shoplifting charge lawyer Chesterfield County can protect your rights, seek diversion programs to avoid a conviction, and work to minimize the long-term impact on your record.
What is the difference between petit larceny and shoplifting?
In Virginia, “shoplifting” is not a separate statute. Theft of merchandise from a store is charged under the general larceny laws. If the value is under $1,000, it is petit larceny (Va. Code § 18.2-96).
How does a petit larceny case proceed in Chesterfield County?
Your case begins with an arrest or summons. Your first court date is an arraignment at Chesterfield County General District Court. Your attorney will review evidence, negotiate with the prosecutor, and prepare for a bench trial if no agreement is reached. You have the right to appeal to Circuit Court for a jury trial.
Related Pages: For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense hub. We also assist clients with DUI charges in Chesterfield County and reckless driving tickets. For similar defense in a neighboring area, see our criminal defense services in Henrico County.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.