Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer in Fredericksburg, Virginia — What Are Your Options?
Petit larceny in Fredericksburg 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 Fredericksburg General District Court. A strong defense can challenge intent, value, or identification. Contact a Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Fredericksburg for a case review.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods valued under $1,000. It is prosecuted as a Class 1 misdemeanor under Virginia Code § 18.2-96. The statute requires the prosecution to prove you intentionally took property belonging to another with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. The value threshold is critical; if the alleged value is $1,000 or more, the charge becomes grand larceny, a felony.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fredericksburg 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 procedures are handled at the Fredericksburg General District Court website.
Fredericksburg Court Process for Theft Charges
In Fredericksburg, petit larceny cases begin at the General District Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney must prove each element beyond a reasonable doubt. A common local procedural fact is that first-time offenders may be eligible for diversion programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon completion. For a shoplifting charge, the store’s loss prevention procedures and evidence handling are often key points of contention. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Fredericksburg can identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case from the start.
- Receive a summons or warrant for petit larceny.
- Attend your arraignment at Fredericksburg GDC (701 Princess Anne St) to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review discovery, including police reports and video evidence.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction, diversion, or dismissal.
- Prepare for trial if a favorable plea cannot be reached.
- If convicted in GDC, you have the right to appeal for a new trial in Circuit Court.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Fredericksburg
In Fredericksburg, petit larceny carries a penalty of up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500, plus court costs and potential restitution.
| 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 directly | Criminal record, difficulty finding employment, restitution payments. |
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 legal experience to each case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand that a theft charge can impact your future, and we provide focused, case-specific defense strategies. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to vigorous representation.
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 in Theft Defense
Our attorneys have successfully defended clients against theft charges. In Fairfax County General District Court, we have secured dismissals and reductions to nolle prosequi in multiple petit larceny cases under Va. Code § 18.2-96. For instance, one charge of “PETIT LARC <$200 NOT FRM PERSN" was dismissed, and another was reduced to a nolle prosequi.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on criminal matters, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor and firm founder with multi-state bar admissions who provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Petit Larceny Lawyer Near Fredericksburg, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fredericksburg courts (701 Princess Anne St). We are accessible via I-95, Route 1, Route 3, and Route 17. We serve the Fredericksburg community. 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
FAQs for Petit Larceny Charges in Fredericksburg
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Fredericksburg, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Fredericksburg carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96). Cases are heard at Fredericksburg General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Fredericksburg, 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 Fredericksburg Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a shoplifting charge in Fredericksburg?
Yes. A shoplifting charge is a criminal misdemeanor prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even a first offense can result in jail time and creates a permanent record. A shoplifting charge lawyer Fredericksburg can protect your rights and seek the best possible outcome.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Fredericksburg?
Fredericksburg General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Fredericksburg 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 for a theft arrest in Fredericksburg?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors like petit larceny. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Fredericksburg General District Court.
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 Fredericksburg DUI Lawyer services.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.