Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer New Kent County — What Are Your Options?
Petit larceny in New Kent 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 documented results defending theft charges in New Kent County General District Court. A strong defense from a petit larceny defense lawyer New Kent County is critical to protect your record and future.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny, defined under 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 prosecution must prove you intentionally took property belonging to another without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner. Common defenses include lack of intent, mistaken identity, claim of right, or valuation disputes. For a shoplifting charge, a shoplifting charge lawyer New Kent County can challenge the evidence of concealment or intent to avoid payment.
New Kent County Court Process for Theft Charges
All petit larceny cases in New Kent County begin at the New Kent County General District Court at 12001 Courthouse Circle. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases. The court handles first appearances, bond hearings, and misdemeanor trials. You have an absolute right to appeal any conviction to the New Kent County Circuit Court for a new trial before a jury.
- Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charge and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge based on legal deficiencies.
- Negotiation: Your misdemeanor theft defense lawyer New Kent County will negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction, diversion, or dismissal.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial in General District Court.
- Appeal: If convicted, you have 10 days to note an appeal to Circuit Court for a jury trial.
- Expungement: If the charge is dismissed or you are found not guilty, you may petition for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Virginia
In New Kent County, a petit larceny conviction is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by 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 (Value 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. |
| Shoplifting (Petit Larceny from Merchant) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Civil demand letter from store for damages, trespass order from property. |
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 the local procedures at the New Kent County General District Court and how to build an effective defense strategy for theft charges.
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 a documented history of achieving favorable results in theft cases. For example, in Fairfax County General District Court, we have secured dismissals for clients charged with petit larceny under Va. Code § 18.2-96. While results depend on the specific facts of each case, our strategic approach focuses on challenging the prosecution’s evidence of intent and value.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Petit Larceny Lawyer Near New Kent County
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at the New Kent County General District Court. We are accessible via I-64 and Route 33. If you need a petit larceny defense lawyer New Kent County, contact us for a consultation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
We serve the communities of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
FAQs: Petit Larceny Defense in New Kent County
What is the penalty for petit larceny in New Kent County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Cases are heard at New Kent County General District Court. A strong defense from a petit larceny defense lawyer New Kent County is essential to avoid these penalties.
Can a petit larceny charge be dropped in New Kent County?
It depends. Charges may be dropped (nolle prosequi) if evidence is weak, or through a first-offender diversion program. An experienced misdemeanor theft defense lawyer New Kent County can negotiate with the prosecutor for this outcome based on the facts of your case and your background.
Do I need a lawyer for a shoplifting charge in Virginia?
Yes. Even a first-time shoplifting charge is a crime with potential jail time and a permanent record. A shoplifting charge lawyer New Kent County can protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and seek alternatives to conviction that protect your future.
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 of 1 to 20 years depending on the specific statute.
Can a petit larceny conviction be expunged in Virginia?
No. Virginia law only allows expungement of criminal records for charges that resulted in an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi. A conviction, even for a misdemeanor, generally cannot be expunged, highlighting the critical importance of a strong initial defense.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing other charges in New Kent County, our firm can help. We also handle DUI defense, family law matters, and reckless driving tickets. For more information on Virginia criminal defense, visit our Virginia criminal lawyer hub page. We also serve neighboring areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County.
Information last verified April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.