Felony Theft Lawyer Virginia Beach, VA
Being charged with felony theft in Virginia Beach is a serious matter. Under Virginia law, theft of property or money valued at $1,000 or more is grand larceny—a felony offense. A conviction can result in significant prison time and a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and other opportunities. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents individuals facing felony theft charges before the Virginia Beach General District Court and Virginia Beach Circuit Court. Mr. Sris, the firm’s Owner and Founder, is a former prosecutor who has practiced criminal law since 1997. Our firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience to each case. To discuss your situation, call (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
Under Va. Code § 18.2-95, theft of property valued at $1,000 or more, or theft directly from a person regardless of value, is classified as grand larceny—a felony punishable by one to twenty years imprisonment, or at the discretion of the jury or court, up to twelve months in jail and a fine of not more than $2,500.
Source: Va. Code § 18.2-95
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
What Felony Theft Means in Virginia Beach
In Virginia Beach, a felony theft charge is prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney in either the General District Court (for preliminary hearings) or the Circuit Court (for trial). The Virginia Beach General District Court, located at 2425 Nimmo Parkway, handles misdemeanor proceedings and felony preliminary hearings. If the case proceeds to trial, it moves to the Virginia Beach Circuit Court, where you have the right to a jury trial. The Fourth Judicial District encompasses Virginia Beach, and local court procedures can influence how a case unfolds.
The key distinction between a misdemeanor and a felony theft charge in Virginia Beach lies in the value of the property or money involved. Anything under $1,000 is typically petit larceny—a Class 1 misdemeanor—while $1,000 or more is grand larceny. Theft directly from a person, regardless of dollar amount, is also a felony. Our firm understands how these thresholds apply in practice and how the local judiciary interprets the evidence required to meet them. For example, the court may examine the fair market value of the item at the time of the theft, and valuation disputes can be a central issue in the defense.
How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Felony Theft Cases
When you contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., you speak with a team that includes a former prosecutor and attorneys with extensive criminal defense experience. Mr. Sris draws on his prosecutorial background to anticipate the Commonwealth’s strategy and identify weaknesses in the state’s case. The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys, including those who have years of trial and law enforcement experience, review every detail—from the initial police report and witness statements to the chain of custody of evidence.
Our approach in Virginia Beach often begins with a thorough analysis of the arrest and charging documents. We examine whether law enforcement had reasonable suspicion for a stop, probable cause for an arrest, or conducted a search legally. In felony theft matters, common defenses may involve challenging the valuation of the property, demonstrating lack of intent to permanently deprive, or raising issues of mistaken identity. Because Virginia permits plea bargaining under Rule 3A:8 of the Rules of the Supreme Court of Virginia, we may negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to amend charges to a lesser offense or seek a first-offender disposition where available. The timeline for your case will depend on the court’s calendar and the complexity of the allegations, but we keep you informed throughout the process.
About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who founded the firm in 1997. He is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. His testimony before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova) reflects his commitment to the Virginia legal community. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience. Results may vary.
The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys each contribute distinct perspectives. For example, one Of Counsel is a former Virginia State Trooper with over a decade of law enforcement service, providing valuable insight into police procedures and investigative techniques. This collective background helps our legal team build a well-prepared defense for clients facing felony theft charges in Virginia Beach. We appear regularly at the Virginia Beach General District Court and Virginia Beach Circuit Court, and our Richmond location serves clients throughout the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for felony theft in Virginia Beach?
Felony theft, or grand larceny, carries a sentence of one to twenty years in prison, or, in the discretion of the jury or court, up to twelve months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. The actual penalty depends on the defendant’s criminal history, the value of the property or money taken, and other factors. A lawyer can argue for a mitigated sentence or alternative resolution. Trials are held at the Virginia Beach Circuit Court. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against felony theft charges?
Defense strategies may include challenging the valuation of the property, disputing the element of intent, asserting a claim of right, or seeking suppression of evidence obtained through an unlawful search or seizure. An experienced defense attorney examines every facet of the government’s case and may negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction of charges. In Virginia Beach, local procedures and the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s charging practices can affect which defenses are most effective. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
What should I do if I am facing felony theft charges in Virginia Beach?
If you are facing felony theft charges, remain silent and ask for an attorney immediately. Do not discuss the allegations with police or anyone else. Preserve any documents, receipts, or communications that could relate to the accusation. Contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights and build a defense. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys at (888) 437-7747.
Can felony theft charges be reduced or dismissed in Virginia Beach?
Yes, a felony theft charge can be reduced to a misdemeanor or dismissed under certain circumstances. For example, if the value of the property is shown to be less than $1,000, the charge may be reduced to petit larceny. First-offender programs may be available for qualifying defendants, and successful completion can result in dismissal. An attorney can assess whether such options apply in your case. To discuss the specifics, call (888) 437-7747.
Do I need a lawyer for a felony theft charge in Virginia Beach?
Yes. A felony theft conviction carries serious consequences, including imprisonment and a permanent record, and the criminal justice process is complex. An attorney can investigate the facts, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and advocate for a favorable resolution. Even if you believe you are innocent, navigating the court system without legal representation puts your future at risk. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. offers consultations by appointment. Call (888) 437-7747 to speak with a member of our team.
Our criminal defense practice also serves clients in Fairfax County, Prince William County, Falls Church, and Manassas.
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