Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer in Manassas Park, Virginia
Petit larceny in Manassas Park 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 focused defense for theft under $1,000 charges at the Manassas Park General District Court. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record. Contact a Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Manassas Park for a case review.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas Park General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods valued under $1,000. It is prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-96. The statute distinguishes it from grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more), which is a felony. In Manassas Park, these cases are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Manassas Park General District Court located at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, applies deep knowledge of Virginia theft statutes to build strong defenses.
Official Legal Resources
For the official Virginia statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court information, visit the Manassas Park General District Court website.
Defending a Petit Larceny Charge in Manassas Park
Prosecutors in Manassas Park often seek convictions for even first-time petit larceny offenses. A strong defense requires immediate action. The key local procedural fact is that the Manassas Park General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials, while felony preliminary hearings for related charges are also held there. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Manassas Park prosecutes these cases. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 may be available, where successful completion results in dismissal.
- Secure Legal Representation Immediately: Contact a defense lawyer before your first court date.
- Case Review and Investigation: Your attorney will review the evidence, witness statements, and police report for weaknesses.
- Pre-Trial Negotiation: Your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor for a dismissal, reduction, or alternative disposition.
- Trial Preparation: If no agreement is reached, your attorney will prepare a defense strategy for trial in General District Court.
- Post-Trial Options: If convicted, your lawyer can file an appeal for a new trial in Manassas Park Circuit Court.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Virginia
In Manassas Park, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail, a fine up to $2,500, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record, difficulty finding employment, loss of professional licenses. |
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. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. We have documented 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to every client. For Manassas Park cases, our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper who understand how these cases are built from the inside.
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 documented history of favorable outcomes in theft cases. For example, in Fairfax County GDC, we have secured dismissals and reductions to nolle prosequi in petit larceny cases. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Petit Larceny Defense Near Manassas Park
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas Park courts. We are accessible via Route 28, Route 234, and I-66. We provide legal representation to residents throughout Manassas Park. 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct
Fairfax, VA 22032
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Manassas Park, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Manassas Park 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 Manassas Park General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Manassas Park, 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 Manassas Park Circuit Court. First-offense programs may lead to a dismissal that is eligible for expungement.
Do I need a misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Manassas Park for a shoplifting charge?
Yes. Even a first-time shoplifting charge is a Class 1 misdemeanor with potential jail time and a permanent record. A shoplifting charge lawyer Manassas Park can negotiate for alternative resolutions or defend you at trial to protect your future.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Manassas Park?
Manassas Park General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Manassas Park 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.
How does bail work in Manassas Park, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Manassas Park. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Manassas Park General District Court.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.