Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer in Prince George County, Virginia
Petit larceny in Prince George 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 Prince George County General District Court. A skilled petit larceny defense lawyer Prince George County can challenge evidence and seek dismissal or reduction.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince George County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny, defined under Va. Code § 18.2-96, is the theft of goods valued under $1,000. It is a Class 1 misdemeanor. The prosecution must prove you intentionally took property belonging to another without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner. Defenses often focus on lack of intent, mistaken identity, or ownership disputes. For official court procedures, refer to the Prince George County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for Theft Charges
Prince George County General District Court handles all petit larceny trials. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Prince George County knows that prosecutors often seek restitution and may offer first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon completion.
- Receive a summons or warrant for petit larceny.
- Attend your arraignment at Prince George County General District Court (6601 Courts Drive) to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review discovery, which includes police reports and store security footage if applicable.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction, dismissal, or entry into a diversion program.
- Prepare for trial if no acceptable plea agreement is reached.
- If convicted, argue for minimal penalties and explore expungement eligibility if the case is later dismissed.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Prince George County
In Prince George County, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail, a fine up to $2,500, and a permanent criminal record.
| 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 directly | Permanent criminal record, restitution, difficulty finding employment. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. We have handled thousands of criminal cases across Virginia. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, is a former prosecutor with a background that provides a strategic advantage in building defenses.
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
Our firm has a documented record of defending theft charges. For example, we have secured dismissals for petit larceny charges in Fairfax County General District Court. In Prince George County, a shoplifting charge lawyer Prince George County from our team works to achieve the best possible outcome, which can include case dismissal, reduction to a lesser offense, or entry into a diversion program.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Prince George County Petit Larceny Defense
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Prince George County courts. We are accessible via I-295, Route 10, and Route 36. We are a petit larceny defense lawyer Prince George County near the Hopewell area and Fort Gregg-Adams.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Prince George County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor, like petit larceny, carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Cases are heard at Prince George County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Prince George 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 Prince George County Circuit Court. A successful first-offender program may lead to a dismissal that is eligible for expungement.
How does bail work in Prince George County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors like petit larceny. Secured bond (requiring a bail bondsman) is more typical for felonies. Bond decisions can be reviewed by the General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a shoplifting charge in Prince George County?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor theft charge can result in jail time and a permanent record. A shoplifting charge lawyer Prince George County can protect your rights, challenge evidence, and seek alternatives like diversion programs to avoid a conviction.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Prince George County?
Prince George County General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Prince George County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
Related Practice Areas: If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles DUI defense in Prince George County and family law matters.
More Virginia Criminal Defense: We also serve clients in nearby jurisdictions like Henrico County and Chesterfield County.
Virginia Criminal Defense Hub: For more information on our statewide practice, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current legal guidance.