Madison County Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer — What Are Your Options?
Petit larceny in Madison 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 45 documented case results in Madison County. A skilled petit larceny defense lawyer Madison County can challenge the prosecution’s evidence and seek dismissal or reduction of charges.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods valued under $1,000. Under Virginia law, this offense is distinct from grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more, a felony). The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-96, classifies petit larceny as a Class 1 misdemeanor. The prosecution must prove you intentionally took property belonging to another without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. Common scenarios include shoplifting, taking items from a vehicle, or theft of services.
Last verified: April 2026 | Madison County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the petit larceny statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information, including forms and procedures, can be found at the Madison County General District Court website.
Madison County Court Process for Theft Charges
All petit larceny cases in Madison County begin at the Madison County General District Court at 1 Main Street. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases. The court handles first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon successful completion. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Madison County can handle this local procedure effectively.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will discuss possible outcomes with the prosecutor, such as a reduction to trespassing or participation in a first-offender program.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, a bench trial will be held before a judge in General District Court.
- Appeal: You have an absolute right to appeal a guilty verdict to Madison County Circuit Court for a new jury trial.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Madison County
In Madison County, a petit larceny conviction carries a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, plus a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record, difficulty finding employment, immigration consequences for non-citizens. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand that a shoplifting charge lawyer Madison County must be both aggressive in court and strategic in negotiation to protect your future.
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 Theft Defense
Our attorneys have a documented history of achieving positive outcomes in theft cases. For example, we have secured dismissals and reductions to nolle prosequi for clients charged with petit larceny under Va. Code § 18.2-96 in Fairfax County General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Petit Larceny Defense Near Madison County, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Madison County courts. We are accessible via Route 29 and Route 231. We provide representation for communities throughout Madison County.
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. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Madison County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Madison County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96). Cases are heard at Madison County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Madison 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 Madison County Circuit Court. First-offense petit larceny may qualify for dismissal through a first-offender program, which can then be expunged.
How does bail work in Madison County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors like petit larceny in Madison County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Madison County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a petit larceny charge in Madison County?
Yes. Even misdemeanor theft charges carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. They are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney at Madison County General District Court. A petit larceny defense lawyer Madison County can protect your rights and seek the best possible outcome.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Madison County?
Madison County General District Court handles misdemeanor petit larceny trials. Madison County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court if you appeal a GDC conviction.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides defense for DUI in Madison County and family law matters. For more information on criminal defense across Virginia, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page. We also represent clients in neighboring areas like Fairfax County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.