Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Colonial Heights — What Are Your Options?
A petit larceny charge in Colonial Heights 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 items valued under $1,000. Our petit larceny defense lawyer Colonial Heights has handled cases in Colonial Heights General District Court. Contact us 24/7 for a case review.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny, defined in Virginia Code § 18.2-96, is the theft of goods valued at less than $1,000. It is distinct from grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more, a felony). The statute covers shoplifting, theft from a person, and other unlawful takings. The prosecution must prove you intentionally took property belonging to another without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it.
Last verified: April 2026 | Colonial Heights General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, review Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information and procedures can be found on the Colonial Heights General District Court website.
Defending a Petit Larceny Charge in Colonial Heights
In Colonial Heights, prosecutors must prove every element of petit larceny beyond a reasonable doubt. A common defense is challenging the intent to steal. For example, if you accidentally walked out of a store with an item, that may show a lack of criminal intent. Another defense involves the value of the item; if the prosecution cannot prove the value was under $1,000, the charge may be reduced or dismissed. The court at 550 Boulevard handles all initial proceedings.
- Initial Court Appearance: Your first hearing is an arraignment at Colonial Heights General District Court where you enter a plea.
- Review Evidence: Your attorney will obtain discovery from the Commonwealth’s Attorney, including witness statements and surveillance video.
- Negotiation & Motions: Your lawyer may negotiate for a reduction (e.g., to trespassing) or file motions to suppress evidence if your rights were violated.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge in GDC. You have a right to appeal to Colonial Heights Circuit Court for a jury trial.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Colonial Heights
In Colonial Heights, 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 | 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, difficulty finding employment, possible immigration consequences. |
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 attorneys have a combined 120+ years of legal experience. We focus on providing full representation for clients facing misdemeanor and felony charges. Our approach is case-specific, built on understanding the details of each situation.
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 firm has documented case results in theft matters. For example, we have secured dismissals for clients charged with petit larceny in Fairfax County. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. His background in accounting and information systems is an asset in cases involving financial details.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Colonial Heights Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Colonial Heights courts on Boulevard. We are accessible via I-95 and Route 1. As a petit larceny defense lawyer near Colonial Heights, we provide 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only. We serve the Colonial Heights community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Colonial Heights, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Colonial Heights carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96). Cases are heard at Colonial Heights General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Colonial Heights, 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 Colonial Heights Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Colonial Heights, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Colonial Heights. Secured bond (a bail bondsman charges about 10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Colonial Heights General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a shoplifting charge in Colonial Heights?
Yes. A shoplifting charge lawyer Colonial Heights can protect your rights. Even a misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and creates a permanent record. Charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Colonial Heights General District Court.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Colonial Heights?
Colonial Heights General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Colonial Heights 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.
If you are looking for a Virginia criminal defense lawyer, explore our state hub. For defense in nearby areas, consider our Chesterfield County criminal defense lawyer or Henrico County criminal defense lawyer. For other legal needs in Colonial Heights, we also handle DUI charges and family law matters.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.