Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer in Colonial Heights, Virginia — What Are Your Options?
Petit larceny in Colonial Heights 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 4 total documented case results across all practice areas in Colonial Heights. A strong defense requires a lawyer who understands local court procedures.
Last verified: April 2026 | Colonial Heights General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
What Is Petit Larceny in Virginia?
Petit larceny, defined in Va. Code § 18.2-96, is the theft of goods or services valued under $1,000. It is distinct from grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more, a felony). The statute covers shoplifting, theft from a person, and other unlawful takings. The prosecution must prove you intentionally took property belonging to another without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner. Defenses often challenge the value of the item, the intent to steal, or the identification of the accused.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest.
- Discovery: Your attorney will request all evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney, including witness statements and video.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge if procedural errors occurred.
- Negotiation: Your attorney will discuss potential resolutions with the prosecutor, such as a reduction, diversion program, or amended charge.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge in Colonial Heights GDC.
- Appeal: If convicted, you have the right to appeal for a new trial in Colonial Heights Circuit Court.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Colonial Heights
In Colonial Heights, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| 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 | Criminal record, difficulty finding employment, immigration consequences for non-citizens. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Colonial Heights Theft Cases
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing a combined 120+ years of legal experience. We have achieved 4,739+ favorable case results firm-wide, with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In Colonial Heights, we have 4 total documented case results across all practice areas. Our approach is case-specific, focusing on the details of your arrest and the evidence against you. For a shoplifting charge lawyer Colonial Heights, our knowledge of local 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 a documented history of achieving positive outcomes in theft cases. In Fairfax County GDC, we have secured dismissals and reductions to nolle prosequi for clients charged with petit larceny under Va. Code § 18.2-96. For example, we have successfully argued for case dismissal based on lack of evidence of intent. In another matter, we negotiated a reduction of the charge, resulting in a nolle prosequi. These results demonstrate our approach to building a defense.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Near Colonial Heights
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Colonial Heights courts on 550 Boulevard. We are accessible via I-95, I-295, and Route 1. We provide representation for residents of Colonial Heights and surrounding communities.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Colonial Heights, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Colonial Heights 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 Colonial Heights General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Colonial Heights, 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 Colonial Heights Circuit Court. First-offense petit larceny may qualify for dismissal through a first offender program, which can then be expunged.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a petit larceny charge?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor theft charge creates a permanent criminal record visible to employers and can carry jail time. A petit larceny defense lawyer Colonial Heights can challenge the evidence, negotiate for a diversion program, or seek a reduction to a lesser offense.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Colonial Heights?
Colonial Heights General District Court handles misdemeanor petit larceny trials. Colonial Heights Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court, but most petit larceny cases are resolved in GDC.
How does bail work for a shoplifting charge in Colonial Heights?
For a first-offense misdemeanor shoplifting charge, personal recognizance (no payment) is common. A magistrate sets bond after arrest. A secured bond (requiring a bail bondsman) is more typical for felony charges or if you have a prior record.
For more information on Virginia theft laws, see the official Va. Code § 18.2-96. Court information is available at the Colonial Heights General District Court website.
If you are facing a theft charge, contact a Virginia criminal defense lawyer. For related charges in the area, see our pages for a misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Colonial Heights and surrounding counties. We also assist with DUI defense in Colonial Heights.
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.