Augusta County Petit Larceny Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Petit larceny in Augusta 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 documented results defending theft charges in Augusta County General District Court. A skilled petit larceny lawyer Augusta County can challenge evidence and seek dismissal or reduction.
Last verified: April 2026 | Augusta County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Petit Larceny Law & 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 over $1,000), which is a felony. In Augusta County, these cases are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Augusta County General District Court located at 6 East Johnson Street, 2nd Floor, Staunton, VA 24401. The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, whose background in accounting provides an advantage in cases involving financial evidence.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court information, visit the Augusta County General District Court website.
Augusta County Court Process for Theft Charges
In Augusta County, prosecutors often seek restitution and may offer first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 for eligible defendants. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Augusta County can negotiate for these alternatives. The key procedural fact is that successful completion of a first offender program can result in dismissal of the charge.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest.
- Discovery: Your attorney will obtain all police reports, witness statements, and store surveillance video.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence if your rights were violated during the investigation or arrest.
- Negotiation: Your attorney will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction, dismissal, or diversion program.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial before a judge. If an agreement is reached, the case is resolved per the terms.
Potential Penalties for Petit Larceny
In Augusta County, petit larceny carries a penalty of up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500, plus potential restitution to the victim.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Value < $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, permanent criminal record |
| Shoplifting (Petit Larceny) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Trespass order from store, civil demand letter |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firm Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. With a combined 120+ years of attorney experience and over 4,739 case results firm-wide, the firm provides strong representation. The tagline “Advocacy Without Borders” reflects this commitment. For example, the firm has successfully defended clients facing shoplifting charges in Augusta County.
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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a documented record of favorable outcomes in theft cases. For instance, the firm has achieved dismissals and reductions to nolle prosequi in Fairfax County petit larceny cases. In Augusta County, the firm has 13 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 100% favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Petit Larceny Defense Near Augusta County
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients at the Augusta County courts. We are accessible via I-81 and I-64. We serve the communities of Staunton, Waynesboro, Fishersville, Stuarts Draft, Verona, and Churchville.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
505 N Main St #103
Woodstock, VA 22664
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
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 Augusta County?
Up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-96. The court may also order restitution to the victim. A petit larceny lawyer Augusta County can argue for alternatives like suspended sentences or diversion programs.
Can a shoplifting charge be reduced or dismissed?
Yes. A shoplifting charge lawyer Augusta County can negotiate for a reduction to a lesser offense or dismissal, especially for first-time offenders. Options include first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, where successful completion leads to case dismissal.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time shoplifting charge?
It depends. Even a first-time conviction creates a permanent criminal record affecting employment and housing. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Augusta County can protect your rights, challenge evidence, and seek an outcome that avoids a conviction.
What is the difference between petit larceny and shoplifting?
Shoplifting is a form of petit larceny that occurs in a retail setting. The legal elements and penalties under Virginia law are the same. Both are Class 1 misdemeanors when the value is under $1,000.
Can I get a shoplifting charge expunged in Virginia?
Yes, but only if the charge results in an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Augusta County Circuit Court under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense hub. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Shenandoah County and with related issues like DUI defense in Augusta County.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.