Petit Larceny Lawyer Alexandria — What Are Your Defense Options?
A petit larceny charge in Alexandria 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 in Alexandria General District Court. A skilled petit larceny lawyer Alexandria can challenge the prosecution’s evidence and seek dismissal or reduction. Contact us 24/7 for a case review.
Last verified: April 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Petit Larceny Statute and Penalties
Petit larceny in Virginia is defined as the theft of goods valued under $1,000. It is codified under Va. Code § 18.2-96. The statute distinguishes it from grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more), which is a felony. The law requires the prosecution to prove you intentionally took property belonging to another with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm understands how these charges are constructed.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the larceny statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures for Alexandria cases are handled at the Alexandria General District Court website.
Local Court Process for a Petit Larceny Charge
In Alexandria, petit larceny cases begin at the Alexandria General District Court. Prosecutors must prove both the act of taking and the intent to steal. A common local procedural fact is that first-time offenders may be eligible for a first offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon completion. For a shoplifting charge lawyer Alexandria, the immediate focus is often on the store’s evidence and loss prevention procedures.
- Receive a summons or be arrested and taken before a magistrate.
- Attend your arraignment at Alexandria General District Court to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review discovery, including police reports and any video evidence.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or diversion program.
- Prepare for trial if a favorable plea cannot be reached.
- If convicted in GDC, you have the right to appeal for a new trial in Circuit Court.
In Alexandria, petit larceny carries a penalty of up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, plus potential restitution and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Criminal record, restitution, difficulty finding employment |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Alexandria Criminal Defense Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to each case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results. We provide full representation for theft charges, from evidence review to courtroom advocacy.
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
Case Results in Theft Defense
Our attorneys have achieved favorable outcomes in theft cases. For example, in Fairfax County GDC, we secured a dismissal for a client charged with petit larceny under $200. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Secondary attorney Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. His background in accounting and information systems offers a unique advantage in cases involving financial evidence.
Petit Larceny Defense Near Alexandria
Our Arlington location serves clients at the Alexandria courts. We represent individuals in Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne. For a petit larceny lawyer Alexandria residents trust, contact us for a consultation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for petit larceny in Alexandria, Virginia?
Yes. Petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine up to $2,500. The case is heard at Alexandria General District Court. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Alexandria can work to reduce or avoid these penalties.
Can a petit larceny charge be dropped in Alexandria?
It depends. Charges may be dropped if the evidence is weak, the suspect was misidentified, or procedural errors occurred. An attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor for a dismissal, especially for first-time offenders who may qualify for a diversion program.
Do I need a lawyer for a shoplifting charge in Alexandria?
Yes. Even a first-time shoplifting charge carries the potential for jail time and creates a permanent criminal record. A shoplifting charge lawyer Alexandria can protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and seek the best possible outcome to avoid these consequences.
What is the difference between petit larceny and shoplifting?
Shoplifting is a form of petit larceny that specifically involves taking merchandise from a retail establishment. The legal charge and penalties under Va. Code § 18.2-96 are the same. The defense strategies may differ based on the store’s policies and evidence collection.
Can a petit larceny conviction be expunged in Virginia?
No. Virginia law generally does not allow expungement of convictions. However, if the charge is dismissed, you are found not guilty, or the prosecution enters a nolle prosequi, you may petition for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense hub, or learn about defense in neighboring Arlington County. For related issues in Alexandria, consider our DUI defense services.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.