Petit Larceny Lawyer Chesterfield County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Petit larceny in Chesterfield 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 5 documented results in Chesterfield County for theft-related charges. A petit larceny lawyer Chesterfield County can challenge the evidence and seek dismissal or reduction.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods valued under $1,000. It is prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-96. The charge becomes grand larceny (a felony) if the value is $1,000 or more. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Resources
For the official statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Chesterfield County Court Process for Theft Charges
In Chesterfield County, petit larceny cases are heard at the General District Court. Prosecutors often seek convictions that carry maximum penalties. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Chesterfield County can identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, such as problems with witness identification or valuation of the stolen property.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or alternative disposition.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge.
- Appeal: You have an absolute right to appeal a guilty verdict to Chesterfield County Circuit Court for a new jury trial.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Chesterfield County
In Chesterfield County, petit larceny carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, plus a permanent criminal record.
| 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 | Permanent criminal record; impacts employment, housing, professional licenses |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firm Experience in Chesterfield County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We have handled numerous theft cases in Chesterfield County courts. For example, one client facing a shoplifting charge had their case dismissed after we challenged the store’s security procedures.
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 5 documented results in Chesterfield County for criminal matters, including theft-related charges. These include dismissals and charge reductions. For instance, we secured a dismissal for a client charged with petit larceny from a person. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Petit Larceny Lawyer Near Chesterfield County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Chesterfield County courts. We are accessible via I-95, I-295, Route 1, and Route 10. We serve communities including Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley.
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: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Chesterfield County 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. Petit larceny under $1,000 is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Chesterfield 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 Chesterfield County Circuit Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a shoplifting charge in Chesterfield County?
Yes. A shoplifting charge lawyer Chesterfield County is essential. Even a first-time misdemeanor carries jail time and creates a permanent record. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases aggressively at Chesterfield County General District Court.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Chesterfield County?
Chesterfield County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Chesterfield County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any jail-time offense.
How does bail work for a petit larceny arrest in Chesterfield County?
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 felony charges.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.