Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer in Albemarle County, Virginia
Petit larceny in Albemarle 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 in Albemarle County. A strong defense can challenge the value of the property or the intent to steal. Contact a petit larceny defense lawyer Albemarle County for a case review.
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. This statute classifies the offense as a Class 1 misdemeanor, the most serious misdemeanor category in Virginia. The prosecution must prove you took someone else’s property without permission and intended to permanently deprive the owner of it.
Last verified: April 2026 | Albemarle County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Albemarle County General District Court website.
Defending a Petit Larceny Charge in Albemarle County
In Albemarle County General District Court, prosecutors must prove the value of the stolen property was under $1,000 and that you intended to steal it. A common defense is challenging the valuation, as reaching the $1,000 threshold elevates the charge to grand larceny, a felony. Another defense is lack of intent, arguing you believed you had permission or intended to return the item.
- Receive a summons or warrant for petit larceny.
- Attend your arraignment at Albemarle County General District Court (350 Park Street).
- Review the evidence with your attorney, focusing on property value and intent.
- Negotiate for a reduction, dismissal, or entry into a first offender program.
- If no agreement is reached, prepare for a bench trial before a judge.
- You have an absolute right to appeal a conviction to Albemarle County Circuit Court for a new trial.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Albemarle County
In Albemarle County, petit larceny carries a penalty of up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500, 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.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have achieved documented results in Albemarle County, focusing on building strong defenses for charges like petit larceny. Our approach is based on a detailed review of the facts and evidence in your specific situation.
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 documented results in Albemarle County. In one case, a charge was amended to a favorable outcome. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Our team, which includes former prosecutor Kristen Fisher, works to seek the best possible result in each case.
Contact Our Albemarle County Defense Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients at Albemarle County courts (350 Park Street). We represent clients in Charlottesville, Crozet, Earlysville, Ivy, and North Garden.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
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 Albemarle County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Albemarle 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. Common charges include petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96). Cases are heard at Albemarle County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Albemarle 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 Albemarle County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a shoplifting charge in Albemarle County?
Yes. A shoplifting charge lawyer Albemarle County can protect your rights. Even a misdemeanor shoplifting charge carries up to 12 months in jail and creates a permanent criminal record visible to employers. The charge is prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney at Albemarle County General District Court.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Albemarle County?
Albemarle County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Albemarle 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.
How does bail work in Albemarle County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Albemarle County. Secured bond (a bail bondsman charges about 10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Albemarle County General District Court.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County. In Albemarle County, we also handle DUI defense.