Petit Larceny Lawyer Rappahannock County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A petit larceny charge in Rappahannock 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. provides strong defense for theft under $1,000. Our petit larceny lawyer Rappahannock County clients trust has documented results in the Rappahannock County General District Court. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny, defined under Virginia Code § 18.2-96, is the theft of goods or services valued at less than $1,000. It is distinct from grand larceny (theft over $1,000), which is a felony. In Rappahannock County, these cases are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Rappahannock County General District Court located at 250 Gay Street, Suite 1, Washington, VA 22747.
Last verified: April 2026 | Rappahannock County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, review Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information and procedures can be found on the Rappahannock County Courts website.
Local Court Process for Petit Larceny
In Rappahannock County, a petit larceny charge begins with an arrest or summons. The case proceeds in General District Court for trial or a preliminary hearing if related to a larger charge. Prosecutors here often consider first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 for eligible defendants, which can lead to dismissal upon completion.
- Receive a summons or warrant for petit larceny.
- Attend your arraignment at Rappahannock County GDC to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review evidence and police reports for procedural defenses.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction, dismissal, or diversion program.
- Prepare for a bench trial in GDC if no agreement is reached.
- If convicted, you have the right to appeal for a new trial in Circuit Court.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Rappahannock County
In Rappahannock 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 | Record Impact | Other Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Theft under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Permanent Criminal Record | Restitution, difficulty finding employment, loss of professional licenses |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Defense Approach
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing over 120 years of combined legal experience. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes in theft cases. We examine every detail, from the validity of the arrest and property valuation to witness credibility, to build your defense.
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 achieved favorable results in theft cases. In prior matters, we have secured dismissals and reductions of petit larceny charges. For example, in Fairfax County GDC, we have successfully had petit larceny charges dismissed or reduced to a nolle prosequi.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our collaborative approach means Bryan Block often works with seasoned attorneys like Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with multi-state bar admissions, to develop case strategy.
Contact Our Rappahannock County Petit Larceny Lawyer
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Rappahannock County courts. We are accessible via Route 211 and Route 522. We are a petit larceny lawyer near Rappahannock County, serving the communities of Washington, Sperryville, and Flint Hill.
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 — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for petit larceny in Rappahannock County, Virginia?
Up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Petit larceny (theft under $1,000) is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-96. Cases are heard at Rappahannock County General District Court. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record.
Can a shoplifting charge be reduced in Rappahannock County?
It depends. For a first-time offense, a misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Rappahannock County can often negotiate for a diversion program like first offender status under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2. Successful completion typically leads to dismissal. Outcomes depend on the facts, evidence, and your criminal history.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time petit larceny charge?
Yes. Even a first-time misdemeanor carries jail time and a permanent record. A shoplifting charge lawyer Rappahannock County can protect your rights, challenge evidence, and seek alternatives to conviction that may preserve your future opportunities.
What is the difference between petit larceny and shoplifting?
Shoplifting is a form of petit larceny that specifically involves concealing merchandise in a store with intent to deprive the owner. Both are prosecuted under the same petit larceny statute (Va. Code § 18.2-96) as Class 1 misdemeanors in Virginia.
How can a petit larceny lawyer Rappahannock County help my case?
A lawyer can challenge the prosecution’s evidence, argue for reduced charges or diversion programs, and represent you at trial. Defenses may include mistaken identity, lack of intent to steal, or questioning the valuation of the alleged stolen property.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing criminal charges in Virginia, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. For defense in nearby areas, see our Fairfax County Criminal Defense Lawyer page. For other legal needs in Rappahannock County, we also assist with DUI defense and family law matters.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.