Petit Larceny Lawyer Fairfax County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Petit larceny in Fairfax 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 501 documented results in Fairfax County. A skilled petit larceny lawyer Fairfax County can challenge evidence and seek dismissal or reduction of charges.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law and Penalties
Petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods valued under $1,000. It is prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-96. This charge is distinct from grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more), which is a felony. The classification and potential penalties are set by state statute.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures are handled at the Fairfax County General District Court.
Defending a Petit Larceny Charge in Fairfax County
In Fairfax County General District Court, prosecutors routinely pursue convictions for shoplifting and theft charges. A strong defense often involves challenging the prosecution’s proof of intent or the value of the allegedly stolen property. For a shoplifting charge lawyer Fairfax County, establishing a lack of intent to permanently deprive the owner is a common strategy.
- Secure representation from a petit larceny lawyer Fairfax County immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will review all evidence, including store surveillance and witness statements.
- We will file pre-trial motions to suppress improperly obtained evidence or challenge procedural errors.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction, diversion program, or dismissal.
- Prepare for trial to assert your defense if a favorable plea cannot be reached.
Potential Penalties for Petit Larceny in Fairfax
In Fairfax County, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail, a fine of 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 directly | Permanent criminal record, difficulty finding employment, immigration consequences for non-citizens. |
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 each case. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we provide full representation. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing theft charges.
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 in Fairfax County
Our firm has 501 documented criminal defense results in Fairfax County, including 336 cases dismissed or found not guilty and 143 charges reduced or amended. In one recent case, a petit larceny charge under Va. Code § 18.2-96 was dismissed at Fairfax County General District Court. In another, a similar charge was reduced to a nolle prosequi (dropped by the prosecution).
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Fairfax County Petit Larceny Lawyers
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fairfax County courts. We are a petit larceny lawyer near Fairfax, serving communities including Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
By appointment only.
Fairfax County Petit Larceny Lawyer FAQ
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Fairfax County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Fairfax County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96). Cases are heard at Fairfax County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Fairfax County, Virginia?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Fairfax County Circuit Court. First-offense diversion programs may help avoid a conviction record.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a shoplifting charge in Fairfax County?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor shoplifting charge carries up to 12 months jail and creates a permanent criminal record visible to employers and landlords. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases aggressively at Fairfax County General District Court.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Fairfax County?
Fairfax County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Fairfax County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
How does bail work for a petit larceny arrest in Fairfax County?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors like petit larceny in Fairfax County. Secured bond (requiring a bail bondsman) is more typical for felonies or if you have a prior record.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.