Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer King George County — What Are Your Options?
A petit larceny charge in King 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. provides defense for theft of property valued under $1,000. Our petit larceny defense lawyer King George County team has documented results in local courts. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law and Penalties
Petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods valued at less than $1,000. It is prosecuted as a Class 1 misdemeanor under Virginia law. The charge is heard at the King George County General District Court located at 10446 Government Center Blvd, Ste 105, King George, VA 22485.
Last verified: April 2026 | King George County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings extensive experience to theft cases. A strong defense is critical because a conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the King George County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for a Petit Larceny Charge
In King George County, prosecutors must prove you intentionally took property belonging to another without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner. For a shoplifting charge lawyer King George County to defend, the value of the item is a key element. The court process typically involves an arraignment, pre-trial motions, and potentially a bench trial.
- Arraignment: You will appear in court to hear the formal charge and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge if procedural errors exist.
- Negotiation: Your misdemeanor theft defense lawyer King George County 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 in General District Court.
- Appeal: You have an absolute right to appeal a guilty verdict to the King George County Circuit Court for a new jury trial.
Potential Penalties for Petit Larceny in King George County
In King George County, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail, a fine of 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; possible restitution; difficulty finding employment |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. We have achieved more than firm-wide 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our approach is direct and focused on the specific details of your case.
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
Our team also includes Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, which provides an advantage in cases involving financial details.
Documented Case Results
Our firm has a record of achieving positive outcomes in theft cases. In Fairfax County General District Court, we have secured dismissals and reductions to nolle prosequi in petit larceny cases under Va. Code § 18.2-96.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Petit Larceny Defense Near King George County, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the King George County courts. We represent individuals in King George, Dahlgren, and surrounding communities.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in King George County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in King George County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Petit larceny under $1,000 is a common Class 1 misdemeanor charge.
Can criminal charges be expunged in King 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 King George County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in King George County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in King George County. Secured bond (a bail bondsman charges about 10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to King George County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a petit larceny charge?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor theft charge carries up to 12 months in jail and creates a permanent criminal record visible to employers. A petit larceny defense lawyer King George County can work to get the charge reduced or dismissed.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in King George County?
King George County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. King George County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
Internal Resources: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Fairfax County. If you are facing other charges, consider our King George County DUI Lawyer.
Page last verified and updated: 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.