Petit Larceny Lawyer Virginia — What Are Your Defense Options?
Petit larceny in Virginia is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-96, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results defending theft charges across Virginia. A skilled petit larceny lawyer Virginia can challenge the evidence and seek dismissal or reduction of your charge.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia General District Courts | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Petit Larceny Statute and Definition
Petit larceny, commonly called shoplifting, is defined in Virginia law as the theft of goods or services valued at less than $1,000. The charge is distinct from grand larceny (theft over $1,000), which is a felony. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-96, classifies the offense and sets the potential penalties. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm understands how prosecutors build these cases from the ground up.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and local rules can be found on the Virginia Court System website for General District Courts.
Local Procedural Insights for Petit Larceny Cases
In Virginia General District Courts, prosecutors often have standard evidence packages for retail theft, including security footage and loss prevention statements. An effective defense requires immediate review of this evidence for chain-of-custody or identification issues.
- Secure legal representation immediately after being charged or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will obtain and scrutinize all police and store evidence.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for possible dismissal, reduction, or diversion.
- Prepare for trial, if necessary, to challenge the prosecution’s case before a judge.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Virginia
In Virginia, a petit larceny conviction carries up to 12 months in jail, a fine up to $2,500, and creates a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent criminal record; impacts employment, housing, professional licenses. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firm Authority and Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and more than 4,739 documented case results, our firm brings substantial resources to your defense. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we aggressively defend clients across Virginia.
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
Documented Case Results
Our firm has a documented history of favorable outcomes in theft cases. For example, in Fairfax County General District Court, we have secured dismissals or reductions for charges of petit larceny under Va. Code § 18.2-96. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate over 93%.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Virginia Petit Larceny Defense Lawyers Near You
Our Fairfax location is centrally located to serve clients across Northern Virginia, including Fairfax County, Arlington, and Loudoun. We are accessible via major highways like I-66, I-495, and Route 50. If you need a petit larceny lawyer Virginia or a misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Virginia, contact us for a consultation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
We serve communities throughout the region including Fairfax, Arlington, Reston, Herndon, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Centreville, Chantilly, Burke, Springfield, Annandale, Falls Church, Manassas, Woodbridge, Leesburg, Ashburn, and Warrenton.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is petit larceny a misdemeanor in Virginia?
Yes. Petit larceny, the theft of property valued under $1,000, is a Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia under Va. Code § 18.2-96.
Can a petit larceny charge be expunged in Virginia?
It depends. Expungement is generally available if the charge was dismissed, you were found not guilty, or under certain first-offender programs. A conviction for petit larceny is typically not eligible for expungement under current Virginia law.
What should I do if I am charged with shoplifting in Virginia?
Do not discuss the case with store personnel or police without an attorney. Contact a Virginia shoplifting charge lawyer immediately. An attorney can secure evidence, advise you on your rights, and begin building a defense strategy case-specific to the specifics of your case.
What are the possible defenses to a petit larceny charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to steal, mistaken identity, ownership dispute, insufficient evidence, or unlawful search and seizure. An experienced misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Virginia can evaluate the evidence to identify the strongest defense for your situation.
Will I go to jail for a first-time petit larceny offense?
Not necessarily. For a first offense with no criminal history, courts often consider alternatives like fines, community service, or diversion programs. However, jail time is legally possible, making skilled representation from a petit larceny lawyer Virginia critical.
For more information on related legal matters, see our pages on Virginia criminal defense, criminal defense in Fairfax, and reckless driving defense in Fairfax.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.