Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer in Chesapeake, Virginia
Petit larceny in Chesapeake 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 1 documented result in Chesapeake for petit larceny. A strong defense is critical to avoid a permanent criminal record. Contact a petit larceny defense lawyer Chesapeake for a 24/7 consultation.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny, defined in Virginia Code § 18.2-96, is the theft of goods valued under $1,000. It is distinct from grand larceny (theft over $1,000), which is a felony. The charge is a Class 1 misdemeanor, the most serious misdemeanor category in Virginia. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Chesapeake General District Court website.
Handling a Petit Larceny Charge in Chesapeake
In Chesapeake, prosecutors at the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office handle petit larceny cases. Many first-time offenders may be eligible for a first offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon completion. The key is to act before a conviction is entered.
- Secure Representation: Contact a defense lawyer immediately after charge or summons.
- Case Review: Your attorney will obtain evidence, review store security footage, and assess witness statements.
- Pre-Trial Strategy: Negotiate for dismissal, reduction to a lesser offense (like trespass), or entry into a first offender program.
- Trial Preparation: If no agreement is reached, prepare a defense for trial before a judge in Chesapeake GDC.
- Post-Trial Options: If convicted, explore appeals to Chesapeake Circuit Court or expungement if the case is later dismissed.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Chesapeake
In Chesapeake, 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 | Record Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Theft under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Permanent criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to each case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the local Chesapeake court procedures and the long-term consequences a theft conviction can carry.
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 for Theft Charges
Our approach to theft defense has secured positive outcomes for clients. In prior cases, we have achieved dismissals and reductions for charges like petit larceny.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
For instance, in Fairfax County GDC, we secured a dismissal for a client charged with Petit Larceny under $200 (Va. Code § 18.2-96). In another case, the charge was reduced to a nolle prosequi (dismissal by the prosecutor).
Our team, including former prosecutor Kristen Fisher and former Virginia State Trooper Bryan Block, analyzes every detail from police procedure to evidence validity. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Contact Our Chesapeake Petit Larceny Defense Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients in Chesapeake and the surrounding communities of Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier. We are accessible via I-64 and other major highways.
Petit larceny defense lawyer near Chesapeake General District Court. We serve neighborhoods throughout Chesapeake.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359
Richmond, VA 23225
By appointment only.
FAQs: Petit Larceny Defense in Chesapeake
What is the penalty for petit larceny in Chesapeake, Virginia?
Yes, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Cases are heard at Chesapeake General District Court.
Can a shoplifting charge be reduced or dismissed in Chesapeake?
It depends. First-time offenders may qualify for a first offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, skilled to dismissal. An experienced misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Chesapeake can negotiate for a reduction to trespassing or disorderly conduct, which may have less severe consequences.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time shoplifting charge?
Yes. Even a first-time conviction creates a permanent criminal record. A shoplifting charge lawyer Chesapeake can work to avoid a conviction through diversion programs or negotiated dismissals, protecting your future.
What is the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny?
The key difference is the value of stolen property. Petit larceny involves property valued under $1,000 and is a misdemeanor. Grand larceny involves property valued at $1,000 or more and is a felony, carrying potential prison time.
Can a petit larceny charge be expunged in Virginia?
Yes, but only under specific conditions. Expungement is available if the charge results in an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi. A conviction for petit larceny generally cannot be expunged under Virginia law.
Related Legal Information
For more on criminal defense in Virginia, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub. If you are facing other charges in Chesapeake, consider reading about DUI defense in Chesapeake. We also assist clients in nearby jurisdictions like Henrico County.
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 specific case.