Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer in Botetourt County, Virginia
A petit larceny charge in Botetourt 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. provides a strong defense for theft under $1,000. Our petit larceny defense lawyer Botetourt County clients trust has documented results in the Botetourt County General District Court.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny is defined under Virginia law as the theft of goods valued at less than $1,000. It is distinct from grand larceny, which involves property valued at $1,000 or more. The statute outlines the elements the prosecution must prove, including the unlawful taking and carrying away of another’s property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it.
Last verified: April 2026 | Botetourt County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, refer to the official Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and local rules can be found on the Botetourt County General District Court website.
Handling a Petit Larceny Case in Botetourt County
In Botetourt County, a petit larceny charge begins with an arrest or summons. The case is prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Botetourt County General District Court. The court’s location at 20 E. Back Street, Suite A, Fincastle, is where all initial proceedings occur. A skilled misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Botetourt County can handle these steps.
- Receive a summons or warrant. Contact an attorney immediately.
- Attend your arraignment at Botetourt County GDC to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review evidence and file any necessary pre-trial motions.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a possible reduction or diversion program.
- Prepare for trial if a satisfactory plea agreement cannot be reached.
- If convicted, explore appeal options to the Botetourt County Circuit Court.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Virginia
In Botetourt 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 under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent criminal record, difficulty finding employment, loss of professional licenses. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Botetourt County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes for clients facing misdemeanor charges in Virginia. Our approach is based on thorough case analysis and aggressive representation.
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 for clients. In Fairfax County General District Court, we have secured dismissals and reductions to nolle prosequi in petit larceny cases. For example, we have successfully defended charges of petit larceny under $200 not from a person, resulting in case dismissals.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Near Botetourt County
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients in Botetourt County and the surrounding I-81 corridor. We represent individuals in Fincastle, Daleville, Troutville, Blue Ridge, and Eagle Rock.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
505 N Main St #103
Woodstock, VA 22664
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Botetourt County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Botetourt County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include petit larceny under $1,000.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Botetourt 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 Botetourt County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Botetourt County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Botetourt County. Secured bond (a bail bondsman charges approximately 10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Botetourt County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a shoplifting charge in Botetourt County?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor shoplifting charge carries up to 12 months in jail and creates a permanent criminal record visible to employers. A shoplifting charge lawyer Botetourt County can protect your rights and work toward the best possible outcome.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Botetourt County?
Botetourt County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Botetourt 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.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.