Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer in Prince George County, Virginia
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 skilled petit larceny defense lawyer Prince George County can challenge evidence and seek dismissal or reduction.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny, defined in Va. Code § 18.2-96, is the theft of goods valued under $1,000. It is distinct from grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more), which is a felony. The charge is a Class 1 misdemeanor, the most serious misdemeanor category in Virginia.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince George County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings a prosecutor’s insight to building your defense strategy.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Prince George County General District Court website.
Defending a Petit Larceny Charge in Prince George County
In Prince George County, prosecutors must prove you intentionally took property belonging to another without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner. A common defense involves challenging the value of the item or the intent to steal. For instance, a shoplifting charge lawyer Prince George County might argue you simply forgot to pay.
- Receive a summons or warrant for petit larceny.
- Appear for arraignment at Prince George County General District Court (6601 Courts Drive).
- Your attorney reviews evidence, interviews witnesses, and files pre-trial motions.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or diversion program.
- Proceed to trial if no acceptable plea agreement is reached.
- If convicted, seek an appeal to Prince George County Circuit Court for a new trial.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Prince George County
In Prince George County, petit larceny 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 under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record, difficulty finding employment, immigration consequences for non-citizens. |
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 attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We focus on providing full representation in criminal matters.
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 documented record of handling petit larceny cases. In Fairfax County, 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.
Our secondary attorney on complex criminal matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, which aids in financial case analysis.
Contact Our Prince George County Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Prince George County courts. We represent clients in Prince George and the Hopewell area.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
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.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Prince George County, Virginia?
It depends. 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.
How does bail work in Prince George County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond (using a bail bondsman) is more typical for felonies. Bond decisions can be reviewed in General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a petit larceny charge?
Yes. Even misdemeanor theft charges carry jail time and create a permanent record. A petit larceny defense lawyer Prince George County can protect your rights and work toward the best possible outcome.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Prince George County?
Prince George County General District Court 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.
Related Legal Information
If you need a Virginia criminal defense lawyer, visit our state hub. For defense in nearby areas, see our pages for Henrico County and Chesterfield County. For other legal needs in Prince George County, consider a DUI lawyer or a family law attorney.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.