Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer in King William County, Virginia
Petit larceny under $1,000 is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-96, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine in King William County. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 2 documented petit larceny defense results in King William County. A strong defense is critical to avoid a permanent criminal record that impacts employment and housing.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law and Penalties
In Virginia, petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods valued at less than $1,000. It is distinct from grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more), which is a felony. The statute governing petit larceny is Va. Code § 18.2-96. As a Class 1 misdemeanor, it is the most serious misdemeanor category in Virginia.
Last verified: April 2026 | King William County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings a deep understanding of Virginia theft laws and local court procedures. A conviction for petit larceny creates a permanent criminal record that can be found by employers, landlords, and licensing boards during background checks.
Official Legal Resources
For the official Virginia statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information for King William County can be found at the King William County Courts website.
Defending a Petit Larceny Charge in King William County
The key local procedural fact is that King William County General District Court handles all misdemeanor petit larceny trials. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for King William County prosecutes these cases. A strategic defense often involves challenging the prosecution’s evidence of intent or value. For a shoplifting charge, this may mean examining surveillance footage or witness statements. A skilled misdemeanor theft defense lawyer can negotiate for a reduction to a lesser offense or explore first-offender diversion programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon successful completion.
- Initial Consultation: Contact a defense attorney immediately after arrest or receiving a summons. Do not speak to store security or police without counsel.
- Case Review: Your attorney will obtain discovery (police reports, witness statements, valuation evidence) to identify defense strategies, such as mistaken identity, lack of intent, or incorrect valuation.
- Pre-Trial Strategy: Based on the evidence, your lawyer will determine whether to file motions to suppress evidence, negotiate for a reduction (e.g., to trespassing), or seek a first-offender diversion program.
- Court Appearance: Appear at King William County General District Court (351 Courthouse Lane, Suite 201) with your attorney for arraignment and any pre-trial hearings or trial.
- Resolution: Work with your counsel to achieve the best possible outcome, whether through dismissal, acquittal, reduced charges, or diversion.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in King William County
In King William County, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying 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; impacts employment, professional licenses, housing, and immigration status. |
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 combine over 120 years of legal experience. We have achieved 4,739+ case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to vigorous representation. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating a deep engagement with state law.
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 firm has a documented record of achieving favorable results in theft cases. In King William County, we have 2 documented criminal defense results, both reduced or amended (100% favorable outcome rate). Firm-wide, we have successfully defended clients against petit larceny charges, securing outcomes such as dismissals and reductions to lesser offenses. For example, in Fairfax County GDC, we have achieved dismissals and reductions to nolle prosequi in petit larceny cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Near King William County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the King William County courts (351 Courthouse Lane). We are accessible via Route 30, Route 360, and Route 33. We provide legal representation to residents of King William, West Point, and Aylett.
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.
FAQs: Petit Larceny Defense in King William County
What is the penalty for petit larceny in King William County, Virginia?
Up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Petit larceny (theft under $1,000) is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-96. Cases are heard at King William County General District Court. Our firm has 2 documented results in the county.
Can a petit larceny charge be expunged in Virginia?
It depends. A conviction for petit larceny generally cannot be expunged in Virginia. However, if the charge is dismissed, you are found not guilty, or the prosecutor enters a nolle prosequi, you may petition for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2 in King William County Circuit Court.
Do I need a lawyer for a shoplifting charge in King William County?
Yes. A shoplifting charge lawyer in King William County is crucial. Even a first-time misdemeanor can result in jail time and creates a permanent record. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases, and an experienced attorney can negotiate for diversion or reduced charges.
What is the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny?
The key difference is the value of the stolen property. Petit larceny involves property valued at less than $1,000 and is a misdemeanor. Grand larceny involves property valued at $1,000 or more and is a felony, carrying potential prison time of 1 to 20 years depending on the specific class.
What are common defenses to a petit larceny charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to permanently deprive the owner (claim of right or mistake), mistaken identity, insufficient evidence of the item’s value, or unlawful search and seizure. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer in King William County can evaluate the specific facts of your case to determine the best defense strategy.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles DUI defense in King William County and family law matters. For more information on Virginia criminal defense, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page. We also serve neighboring areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.