Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer in Lexington, Virginia — Protecting Your Record
Petit larceny in Lexington 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 Lexington General District Court. A skilled petit larceny defense lawyer Lexington can challenge evidence and seek dismissal or reduction of your charge.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law and Penalties
Petit larceny, defined in Va. Code § 18.2-96, is the theft of goods valued under $1,000. It is distinct from grand larceny (theft over $1,000), which is a felony. This charge is prosecuted in Lexington General District Court at 2 South Main Street. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings extensive experience to these cases.
Last verified: April 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Lexington General District Court website.
Defending a Petit Larceny Charge in Lexington Court
In Lexington General District Court, prosecutors must prove you intentionally took property belonging to another without permission. A common defense involves challenging the value of the item or the intent to steal. For instance, a shoplifting charge lawyer Lexington might argue a client mistakenly left a store with an item. The procedural steps are specific to this court.
- Receive a summons or warrant with a court date for Lexington General District Court.
- Consult with a defense attorney before your arraignment to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review evidence, such as store surveillance or witness statements.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or alternative disposition.
- Prepare for trial to argue your case before the judge if no agreement is reached.
- If convicted, seek an appeal to Lexington Circuit Court for a new trial.
Potential Penalties for Petit Larceny in Lexington
In Lexington, a petit larceny conviction carries up to 12 months in jail, a fine up to $2,500, and a permanent criminal record that affects employment and housing.
| 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, possible restitution |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Experience in Lexington Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team has over 120 years of combined legal experience. We have a documented record of handling theft cases. Our approach is case-specific, focusing on the details of each client’s situation. For a misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Lexington, understanding local court procedures is key.
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 for Theft Charges
Our firm has achieved favorable outcomes in theft cases. For example, we have secured dismissals for charges of petit larceny under $200 in Fairfax County General District Court. In another case, a charge was reduced to a nolle prosequi (dismissal by the prosecutor). Each case outcome depends on its specific facts and evidence.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on complex criminal matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with multi-state bar admissions.
Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Near Lexington, VA
Our Richmond Location represents clients at the Lexington courts. Contact us for a petit larceny defense lawyer near Lexington. We serve the Lexington community. 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for petit larceny in Lexington, Virginia?
Up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-96. Cases are heard at Lexington General District Court. A strong defense is critical to avoid this penalty.
Can a petit larceny charge be dropped in Lexington?
It depends. A prosecutor may drop a charge (nolle prosequi) if evidence is weak. Successful completion of a first offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 can also lead to dismissal. An attorney can negotiate for these outcomes.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time shoplifting charge in Lexington?
Yes. Even a first-time charge carries jail time and creates a permanent record. A shoplifting charge lawyer Lexington can seek alternative resolutions like community service to avoid a conviction.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court for theft cases?
Lexington General District Court handles misdemeanor petit larceny trials. Lexington Circuit Court handles felony grand larceny trials and appeals from GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
How does a misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Lexington challenge the evidence?
A lawyer may challenge surveillance footage quality, question witness identification, or argue a lack of intent to steal. They can file motions to suppress improperly obtained evidence before trial.
Internal Resources
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist with related issues like DUI defense in Lexington. For cases in nearby areas, consider our criminal defense lawyer in Henrico County.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current guidance.