Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer in Greene County, Virginia
Petit larceny in Greene 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. has 1 documented result in Greene County. A strong defense is critical to avoid a permanent criminal record. Contact a Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Greene County today.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny, defined in Va. Code § 18.2-96, is the theft of goods valued under $1,000. It is distinct from grand larceny (theft over $1,000), which is a felony. The statute classifies the offense and sets the maximum penalties. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses.
Last verified: April 2026 | Greene County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Greene County General District Court website.
Defending a Petit Larceny Charge in Greene County
Prosecutors in Greene County General District Court handle these cases routinely. A successful defense often involves challenging the evidence of intent or value. For instance, demonstrating a lack of intent to permanently deprive the owner or contesting the alleged value of the item can lead to a reduction or dismissal.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will obtain and review all evidence, including store video or witness statements.
- We will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, often seeking a diversion program or reduced charge.
- If no favorable agreement is reached, we will prepare for and present a defense at trial in Greene County General District Court.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Greene County
In Greene 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 Greene County Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented result in Greene County: 1 case dismissed or found not guilty, representing a 100% favorable outcome rate for that locality.
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 attorneys have successfully defended clients against petit larceny charges. In Fairfax County General District Court, we have secured dismissals and reductions to nolle prosequi for charges of petit larceny under $200. For example, one case where the charge was PETIT LARC <$200 NOT FRM PERSN under Va. Code § 18.2-96 resulted in a dismissal.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Greene County Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Greene County courts (85 Stanard Street, Stanardsville). We are accessible via Route 29 and Route 33, serving Stanardsville and Ruckersville. 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Greene County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Greene County 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. Petit larceny under $1,000 is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Greene 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 Greene County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a shoplifting charge in Greene County?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor shoplifting charge carries up to 12 months in jail and creates a permanent record. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases at Greene County General District Court. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Greene County can protect your rights and seek the best possible outcome.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Greene County?
Greene County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Greene 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.
Should I hire a shoplifting charge lawyer Greene County for a first offense?
Yes. A first offense does not guarantee leniency. A conviction will remain on your record. An experienced lawyer can often negotiate for a first offender program or diversion, which may lead to a dismissal and avoid a conviction entirely.
For more information on related services, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Fairfax County. If you are facing other charges, consider a Greene County DUI Lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.