Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Gloucester County — Protect Your Record
A petit larceny charge in Gloucester County is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-96, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides dedicated defense for theft charges.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law and Penalties
Petit larceny, defined under Va. Code § 18.2-96, is the theft of goods or services valued under $1,000. It is distinct from grand larceny (theft over $1,000), which is a felony. In Gloucester County, these cases are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Gloucester County General District Court located at 7400 Justice Drive, Room 102.
Last verified: April 2026 | Gloucester County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to building a strong defense against theft allegations.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information, including hours and location, can be found on the Gloucester County General District Court website.
Gloucester County Court Process for Theft Charges
In Gloucester County, the General District Court handles all misdemeanor petit larceny trials. The Commonwealth’s Attorney routinely seeks convictions that can impact employment and housing. A skilled misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Gloucester County can challenge the evidence, which often includes store security footage or witness statements. For first-time offenders, Virginia law under § 19.2-303.2 may allow for a diversion program skilled to dismissal.
- 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 exist.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor, often seeking a reduction to a lesser offense, dismissal, or diversion.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge in General District Court.
- Appeal: You have an absolute right to appeal a guilty verdict to Gloucester County Circuit Court for a new jury trial.
Potential Penalties for Petit Larceny in Virginia
In Gloucester County, a petit larceny conviction is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail, a fine up to $2,500, and 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 directly | Permanent criminal record, difficulty finding employment, possible civil demand letter from retailer. |
| Shoplifting (same statute) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Store ban, civil liability for damages, enhanced penalties for subsequent offenses. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into how the other side builds cases. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing misdemeanor theft and shoplifting charges across Virginia. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, maintains a selective caseload to ensure deep involvement in complex matters.
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 history of achieving positive results in theft cases. For example, we have secured dismissals and reductions to nolle prosequi in Fairfax County for petit larceny charges under Va. Code § 18.2-96. In Gloucester County, our attorneys draw on this extensive experience to advocate for clients.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Gloucester County Residents
Our Richmond location serves clients in Gloucester County. We are familiar with the procedures at the Gloucester County General District Court. If you need a shoplifting charge lawyer Gloucester County, we are accessible. We serve the communities of Gloucester and Gloucester Point.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, 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 petit larceny in Gloucester County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor conviction for petit larceny in Gloucester County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine under Va. Code § 18.2-96. The case is heard at Gloucester County General District Court.
Can a petit larceny charge be dropped in Virginia?
It depends. Charges may be dropped (nolle prosequi) if evidence is weak, procedural errors occurred, or through a first-offender diversion program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2. An experienced petit larceny defense lawyer Gloucester County can negotiate with the prosecutor for this outcome.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time shoplifting charge?
Yes. Even a first-time misdemeanor conviction creates a permanent criminal record. A shoplifting charge lawyer Gloucester County can often secure a diversion program or reduction to avoid a conviction and jail time.
What is the difference between petit larceny and shoplifting?
Shoplifting is a form of petit larceny that occurs in a retail setting. Both are prosecuted under the same statute (Va. Code § 18.2-96) as Class 1 misdemeanors with identical penalties.
Can I get a petit larceny charge expunged in Virginia?
Expungement is available under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2 if the charge is dismissed, you are found not guilty, or the prosecutor enters a nolle prosequi. Most convictions cannot be expunged, highlighting the importance of a strong initial defense.
Contact a Gloucester County Petit Larceny Defense Attorney
If you are facing theft allegations, contact a petit larceny defense lawyer Gloucester County at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. immediately. We offer 24/7 consultations to discuss your case and defense options. We also represent clients on related matters; explore our pages for a Gloucester County DUI lawyer or a Gloucester County family law attorney. For more Virginia defense resources, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.