Augusta County Petit Larceny Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Petit larceny in Augusta 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 Augusta County General District Court. A skilled petit larceny lawyer Augusta County can challenge evidence and seek dismissal or reduction.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law & Penalties
Petit larceny, commonly called shoplifting, is defined as the theft of goods or services valued under $1,000. Under Virginia law, this charge is distinct from grand larceny (theft over $1,000, a felony). The statute governing this offense is Va. Code § 18.2-96. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses.
Last verified: April 2026 | Augusta County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings extensive experience to theft defense. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Augusta County from our team understands the local court procedures and prosecution strategies.
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly) – Defines petit larceny.
- Augusta County General District Court – Official court website for case information and procedures.
Augusta County Court Process for Theft Charges
In Augusta County, prosecutors at the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office handle petit larceny cases. The court at 6 East Johnson Street, Staunton, sees many first-time offender cases, where diversion programs may be available under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2. A shoplifting charge lawyer Augusta County can negotiate for these alternatives to avoid a conviction.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged 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 if procedural errors exist.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will discuss possible outcomes with the prosecutor, such as reduction to trespass or diversion.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge.
- Sentencing or Diversion: If found guilty, you face sentencing; if diversion is granted and completed, the charge is dismissed.
Potential Penalties for Petit Larceny in Augusta County
In Augusta County, petit larceny 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 (Theft under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent criminal record; difficulty finding employment; possible civil demand from store. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Augusta County Theft Defense Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. Our attorneys include former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into how the other side builds cases. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes in theft cases.
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
Documented Case Experience
Our firm has a documented history of handling petit larceny cases. For example, we have secured dismissals and reductions to nolle prosequi in Fairfax County for charges under Va. Code § 18.2-96. In Augusta County, we apply the same rigorous defense strategies.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. His multi-state practice and experience amending Virginia law demonstrate a deep understanding of legal systems.
Contact Our Augusta County Petit Larceny Defense Lawyers
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients at the Augusta County courts in Staunton. We represent individuals in Staunton, Waynesboro, Fishersville, Stuarts Draft, Verona, and Churchville.
Petit larceny lawyer near Augusta County General District Court.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
505 N Main St #103
Woodstock, VA 22664
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Petit Larceny in Augusta County
Is petit larceny a felony in Virginia?
No. Petit larceny (theft under $1,000) is a Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia. Theft of $1,000 or more is grand larceny, a felony. Both charges are serious and require a defense lawyer.
Can a petit larceny charge be expunged in Augusta County?
It depends. Under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, you can petition for expungement if the charge was dismissed, you were found not guilty, or the prosecutor entered a nolle prosequi. Most convictions cannot be expunged. A lawyer can advise if your case qualifies.
Will I go to jail for a first-time shoplifting charge in Augusta County?
Not necessarily. For a first offense with no prior record, prosecutors often offer diversion programs or recommend probation. However, jail is a possible penalty. An experienced shoplifting charge lawyer Augusta County can advocate for alternatives to incarceration.
What is a civil demand letter from a store?
Stores often send a civil demand letter seeking monetary damages (often $200-$500) separate from the criminal case. Paying it does not resolve the criminal charge. You should consult with a misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Augusta County before responding.
Should I just plead guilty to petit larceny to get it over with?
No. A guilty plea results in a permanent criminal conviction. Always consult a lawyer first. There may be options for dismissal, reduction, or diversion that avoid a conviction entirely.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby jurisdictions like Shenandoah County and Rockingham County. If you are facing other charges, see our pages for Augusta County DUI Defense and Augusta County Family Law.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your petit larceny charge.