Petit Larceny Lawyer in King William County, Virginia — What Are Your Defense Options?
Petit larceny in King William 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 King William County. A skilled petit larceny lawyer King William County can challenge the prosecution’s evidence and seek a favorable outcome.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law and Penalties
Petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods valued at less than $1,000. It is distinguished from grand larceny, which involves property valued at $1,000 or more and is a felony. The statute governing this offense is Va. Code § 18.2-96. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licensing.
Last verified: April 2026 | King William County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
Defending a Petit Larceny Charge in King William County
The Key Local Procedural Fact for King William County is that the General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials, including petit larceny. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases at 351 Courthouse Lane. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 may be available, where successful completion results in dismissal. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Initial Consultation: Contact a defense attorney immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Case Review: Your attorney will obtain police reports and evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Court Appearances: Your attorney will represent you at all hearings in King William County General District Court.
- Negotiation or Trial: Your lawyer will seek a favorable plea agreement or prepare for trial to fight the charge.
Potential Penalties for Petit Larceny in Virginia
In King William County, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
| 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; impacts employment, housing, professional licenses. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and a record of firm-wide 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our approach is “Advocacy Without Borders,” providing dedicated representation. For a shoplifting charge lawyer King William County, our team understands the local court 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
Documented Case Results
Our firm has a documented record of defending theft charges. In Fairfax County, we have secured dismissals and reductions for petit larceny charges. For example, one case resulted in a charge being reduced to a nolle prosequi (dismissal by the prosecutor). Another case saw the charge dismissed outright. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, leveraging his experience amending Virginia law.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Near King William County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the King William County courts (351 Courthouse Lane). We represent individuals in King William, West Point, and Aylett. 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for petit larceny in King William County?
Yes, it is a Class 1 misdemeanor. The penalty is up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Cases are heard at King William County General District Court.
Can a petit larceny charge be dropped in Virginia?
It depends. Charges may be dropped if the evidence is weak, procedural errors occurred, or through a first-offender program. An experienced misdemeanor theft defense lawyer King William County can negotiate with the prosecutor for a dismissal or reduction.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time shoplifting charge?
Yes. Even a first-time charge carries jail time and creates a permanent record. A shoplifting charge lawyer King William County can protect your rights and often secure an outcome that avoids a conviction.
What is the difference between petit larceny and shoplifting?
Shoplifting is a form of petit larceny that specifically involves stealing merchandise from a retail establishment. Both are prosecuted under the same Virginia theft statute, Va. Code § 18.2-96.
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 prosecutor drops it (nolle prosequi), you may petition for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
Internal Resources
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer Hub
- Criminal Defense Lawyer in Henrico County
- DUI/DWI Lawyer in King William County
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your petit larceny charge.