Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer in Henrico County, Virginia
Petit larceny in Henrico 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 8 documented results in Henrico County for theft-related charges. A skilled petit larceny defense lawyer Henrico County can challenge the prosecution’s evidence and seek dismissal or reduction of charges.
Virginia Petit Larceny Statute
Petit larceny, defined under Virginia Code § 18.2-96, is the theft of goods or services valued at less than $1,000. The statute distinguishes it from grand larceny, which involves property valued at $1,000 or more and is a felony. In Henrico County, these charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Henrico County General District Court at 4301 East Parham Road.
Last verified: April 2026 | Henrico County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the petit larceny statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information and procedures can be found on the Henrico County General District Court website.
Henrico County Court Process for Theft Charges
In Henrico County, prosecutors often seek convictions for even first-time petit larceny offenses, which can create a permanent criminal record. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Henrico County understands that the court at 4301 East Parham Road handles all misdemeanor trials. Successful completion of a first offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 can result in dismissal.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged 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 exist.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction, dismissal, or favorable diversion program.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial before a judge in General District Court.
- Appeal or Sentencing: You can appeal a guilty verdict to Henrico County Circuit Court for a jury trial, or proceed to sentencing.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Henrico County
In Henrico County, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
| 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, difficulty finding employment, immigration consequences for non-citizens. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firm Experience in Henrico County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. In Henrico County, we have a documented record of 8 case results for theft-related charges, with 7 dismissed or found not guilty and 1 reduced or amended, reflecting a focused approach to defending clients in local courts.
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 for Theft Charges
Our attorneys have achieved favorable outcomes in theft cases. For example, in Fairfax County General District Court, we secured dismissals for clients charged with petit larceny under $200 (Va. Code § 18.2-96). In another case, the charge was reduced to a nolle prosequi. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Henrico County Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer
Our Richmond location serves clients in Henrico County, including Glen Allen, Short Pump, and Innsbrook. We are accessible via I-64, I-95, and I-295. If you need a shoplifting charge lawyer Henrico County, contact us for a consultation.
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. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Henrico County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Henrico County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96). Cases are heard at Henrico County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Henrico 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 Henrico County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Henrico County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Henrico County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Henrico County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a petit larceny charge in Henrico County?
Yes. Even misdemeanor petit larceny carries up to 12 months jail and creates a permanent criminal record visible to employers. Charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. A petit larceny defense lawyer Henrico County can protect your rights and seek the best possible outcome.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Henrico County?
Henrico County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Henrico County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Chesterfield County. If you are facing other charges in Henrico County, consider our DUI/DWI lawyer or family law services.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your petit larceny charge.