Petit Larceny Lawyer Alexandria — What Are Your Defense Options?
Petit larceny in Alexandria 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 in Alexandria General District Court. A dedicated petit larceny lawyer Alexandria can challenge the prosecution’s evidence and seek dismissal or reduction. Contact us 24/7 for a case review.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods valued under $1,000. Under Virginia law, this offense is codified in Va. Code § 18.2-96. The statute classifies it as a Class 1 misdemeanor, which is the most serious misdemeanor category in the state. The prosecution must prove you intentionally took and carried away another’s property without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. Value is a key element; if the alleged value is $1,000 or more, the charge becomes grand larceny, a felony.
Last verified: April 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, refer to the Virginia Code § 18.2-96. Court procedures and filing information for Alexandria cases can be found on the Alexandria General District Court website.
Handling a Petit Larceny Case in Alexandria
In Alexandria, petit larceny cases are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Alexandria General District Court. Prosecutors often seek convictions, but an experienced misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Alexandria can identify weaknesses, such as problems with witness identification, lack of intent evidence, or incorrect valuation of the property.
- Initial Consultation: Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately after being charged or receiving a summons.
- Case Review: Your attorney will obtain police reports, witness statements, and store security footage if applicable.
- Pre-Trial Strategy: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or diversion program.
- Court Appearance: Appear at Alexandria General District Court for arraignment and any pre-trial hearings.
- Resolution: Work with your attorney to pursue the best outcome, whether through trial, plea agreement, or diversion.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Alexandria
In Alexandria, 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 | Record Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Value under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Permanent criminal record | Difficulty finding employment, professional licensing issues, immigration consequences for non-citizens. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Alexandria Defense Team
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 understand the local Alexandria court procedures and the strategies employed by the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office. Our approach is to build a strong, evidence-based defense from the start.
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
Our team, including Mr. Sris with his background as a former prosecutor and founder, has a firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented case results. We actively represent clients in Alexandria General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Presence for Alexandria Clients
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only.
Our Arlington location serves clients facing charges at the Alexandria General District Court. We represent individuals from Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne. As a local petit larceny lawyer Alexandria, we offer 24/7 phone consultations. Meetings are held by appointment only at our Arlington location, which is accessible for clients in the Alexandria area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for petit larceny in Alexandria, Virginia?
Yes, it is a Class 1 misdemeanor. The maximum penalty is 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. The actual sentence can vary based on criminal history and case specifics.
Can a shoplifting charge be reduced in Alexandria?
It depends on the evidence and your history. An experienced shoplifting charge lawyer Alexandria may negotiate to reduce the charge to a lesser offense like trespassing or disorderly conduct, or seek entry into a first offender program for dismissal.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time petit larceny charge?
Yes. Even a first offense carries jail time and creates a permanent record that affects jobs and housing. A lawyer can fight for a diversion program to avoid a conviction.
How does a petit larceny charge affect my record?
A conviction results in a permanent criminal record. This can show up on background checks for employment, housing, and professional licenses. Expungement is generally not available for convictions in Virginia.
What should I do if I am charged with petit larceny?
Do not discuss the case with store security or police. Contact a petit larceny lawyer Alexandria immediately. Gather any receipts or evidence you have, and write down everything you remember about the incident.
Related Pages: For other charges, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub, or learn about related issues for Alexandria residents like DUI defense or reckless driving. For similar defense in a neighboring area, consider an Arlington criminal defense lawyer.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.