Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer in Fairfax County, Virginia — What Are Your Options?
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 Fairfax County. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 501 documented results in Fairfax County General District Court. A strong defense is critical to avoid a permanent criminal record. Contact a petit larceny defense lawyer Fairfax County today.
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 this offense is Va. Code § 18.2-96. The classification and penalties are set by the Virginia General Assembly.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings a deep understanding of how theft statutes are applied and prosecuted in Northern Virginia courts.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, refer to the Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly website). Court procedures and filing information can be found on the Fairfax County General District Court website.
Fairfax County Court Process for Theft Charges
All petit larceny cases in Fairfax County begin at the Fairfax County General District Court at 4110 Chain Bridge Road. Prosecutors here often have high caseloads, which can create opportunities for early case evaluation and potential resolution. For those facing a shoplifting charge, lawyer Fairfax County experience is vital as retailers like those in Tysons Corner or Fair Oaks Mall frequently pursue charges.
- Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charge and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Conference: Your attorney will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, often seeking a reduction or dismissal.
- Motion Hearing: If necessary, your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, a bench trial will be held before a General District Court judge.
- Appeal: You have an absolute right to appeal a guilty verdict to the Fairfax County Circuit Court for a new trial before a jury.
Potential Penalties for Petit Larceny in Fairfax County
In Fairfax County, a petit larceny conviction carries up to 12 months in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, and creates a permanent criminal record that affects employment and housing.
| 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; difficulty finding employment; possible immigration consequences. |
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 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the other side builds a case. We have documented over 4,739 case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In Fairfax County alone, we have 501 documented results for criminal matters, including specific dismissals for petit larceny charges.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
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 in Fairfax County
Our firm has a documented history of favorable outcomes in Fairfax County. For example, we have secured dismissals for clients charged with “PETIT LARC <$200 NOT FRM PERSN" under Va. Code § 18.2-96 in Fairfax County General District Court. In other cases, charges have been reduced to a nolle prosequi (dropped by the prosecutor). These 501 results in Fairfax County include 336 dismissals or not guilty verdicts and 143 charges reduced or amended.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our lead criminal defense attorney, Mr. Sris, founded the firm in 1997 and maintains a multi-state practice. His background as a former prosecutor and his strategic oversight are assets in complex cases.
Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Near Fairfax County
Our Fairfax location at 4008 Williamsburg Court is centrally located to serve clients at the Fairfax County General District Court. We represent individuals from Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
FAQs for Petit Larceny Charges in Fairfax County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Yes, a Class 1 misdemeanor, like petit larceny, carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. These cases are heard at Fairfax County General District Court.
Can a shoplifting charge be dropped in Fairfax County?
It depends. A prosecutor may drop a shoplifting charge (enter a nolle prosequi) if there are evidentiary issues, the value is minimal, or it’s a first offense. An experienced misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Fairfax County can negotiate for this outcome or seek admission into a first offender program for dismissal.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time petit larceny charge?
Yes. Even a first-time conviction creates a permanent criminal record. A lawyer can protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and seek alternatives like a first offender program to avoid a conviction altogether.
What is the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny in Virginia?
The key difference is the value of the stolen property. Petit larceny involves property valued under $1,000 and is a misdemeanor. Grand larceny involves property valued at $1,000 or more and is a felony, carrying potential prison time.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Fairfax County, Virginia?
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 Fairfax County Circuit Court.
Related Practice Areas: If you are facing other charges, we also handle DUI defense in Fairfax and family law matters.
Other Locations: We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Falls Church and Prince William County.
Learn More: For a broader view of our services, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page.
Page last verified and updated: 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.