Felony Theft Lawyer Virginia Beach, VA
If you are facing a felony theft charge in Virginia Beach — whether it involves grand larceny, embezzlement, credit card theft, or another property crime — the potential penalties are serious. A conviction can mean years in prison, a permanent felony record, and lasting consequences for employment, housing, and professional licenses. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team represent individuals accused of felony theft offenses in Virginia Beach General District Court and Virginia Beach Circuit Court. We understand Virginia’s larceny statutes and the local court procedures because we appear in these courts regularly. For immediate guidance, call (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.
In Virginia, grand larceny — the most common felony theft charge — is punishable by imprisonment for not less than one nor more than 20 years, or, at the discretion of the jury or court, confinement in jail for not more than 12 months and a fine of not more than $2,500.
Source: Va. Code § 18.2-95. Virginia LIS
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
A theft becomes a felony in Virginia when the value of the property taken is $1,000 or more, or when the theft is committed directly from the person of another (as in pickpocketing or robbery), regardless of value.
Source: Va. Code § 18.2-95. Virginia LIS
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
What Felony Theft Means in Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach City prosecutes felony theft cases primarily in the Virginia Beach Circuit Court after a preliminary hearing in the Virginia Beach General District Court. The city’s Commonwealth’s Attorney Office handles prosecutions for offenses ranging from shoplifting that crosses the $1,000 threshold to complex embezzlement schemes. Because Virginia Beach is a major tourist destination and home to large military installations, theft cases here can involve unique jurisdictional and evidentiary issues — property taken from hotel rooms, rental cars, or military housing may raise questions about ownership, consent, and venue.
Under Virginia law, felony theft encompasses several distinct offenses: grand larceny (Va. Code § 18.2-95), embezzlement (§ 18.2-111), credit card theft (§ 18.2-192), and obtaining money by false pretenses (§ 18.2-178). Each carries its own elements and potential defenses. The classification as a felony depends on the value of the property or the method of taking. Petit larceny — theft under $1,000 — is a Class 1 misdemeanor. When the value reaches $1,000, the charge escalates to a felony. An experienced attorney can examine the prosecution’s valuation and challenge it where the evidence is weak.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Felony Theft Cases
At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., we approach every felony theft case with a thorough review of the evidence. Our team, led by Mr. Sris and supported by experienced Of Counsel, examines police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and the chain of custody for any physical evidence. We scrutinize the valuation of allegedly stolen property, because if the value is below $1,000, the charge may be reduced to a misdemeanor. We also investigate whether law enforcement followed proper procedures during the stop, search, and interrogation.
Early intervention can be critical. Before the preliminary hearing in Virginia Beach General District Court, we may negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to seek a reduction — for example, to petit larceny or to an alternative disposition. If the case proceeds to the Circuit Court, we prepare for trial while remaining open to plea discussions when they serve the client’s interests. Throughout the process, we keep clients informed about their options, including potential first-offender programs where applicable. While every case is unique, our goal is to work toward the most favorable outcome possible under the circumstances.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced law since 1997. A former prosecutor, he brings insight into how the Commonwealth builds its cases. He is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). He is supported by Of Counsel attorneys, each of whom focuses on litigation and brings extensive experience to criminal defense matters.
Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience. Results may vary. Our team appears regularly in Virginia Beach courts and handles felony theft cases throughout Hampton Roads. Mr. Sris has documented 4,739+ case results across all practice areas since founding the firm. Results may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for felony theft in Virginia Beach?
A felony theft conviction such as grand larceny under Va. Code § 18.2-95 carries a prison sentence of 1 to 20 years, or at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Virginia’s sentencing guidelines and the specific facts — including the value taken, prior criminal history, and whether violence was involved — influence the actual sentence imposed. Even a first offense can result in incarceration, so it is critical to have an experienced attorney evaluate your case early. For a consultation, call (888) 437-7747.
Can a felony theft charge be reduced to a misdemeanor in Virginia Beach?
Yes, a felony theft charge may be reduced to a misdemeanor if the evidence shows the property value was under $1,000, or if the Commonwealth’s Attorney agrees to amend the charge as part of a negotiated resolution. In some cases, first‑offender dispositions under Va. Code § 19.2‑303.2 may allow deferred adjudication, experienced to dismissal upon successful completion of conditions. An attorney can argue for reduction based on valuation disputes, lack of intent, or mitigating circumstances.
What is the difference between grand larceny and petit larceny in Virginia?
Grand larceny (felony) applies when the stolen property is valued at $1,000 or more, or when the theft is from the person of another. Petit larceny (misdemeanor) applies when the value is below $1,000 and the theft is not from the person. The distinction is critical because it affects the potential penalty, court of jurisdiction, and long‑term consequences such as firearm rights and employment background checks.
How do I find a felony theft lawyer near Virginia Beach?
When selecting a defense lawyer, look for experience handling theft cases in Virginia Beach courts, familiarity with Virginia larceny statutes, and a record of appearing in both General District and Circuit Courts. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team serve clients throughout Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana from our Richmond Location. To discuss your case, contact us at (888) 437-7747.
What should I do if I am arrested for felony theft in Virginia Beach?
Immediately exercise your right to remain silent and do not discuss the allegations with police or anyone other than your attorney. Contact a defense lawyer as soon as possible to arrange representation. Avoid posting about the incident on social media. Preserve any documents, receipts, or communications that may be relevant to your defense. Early legal guidance can help protect your rights at the bail hearing and preliminary hearing stages.
Is embezzlement treated the same as theft in Virginia?
Embezzlement is a form of larceny under Virginia law. Under Va. Code § 18.2‑111, a person who wrongfully uses or conceals property entrusted to them by an employer or principal is guilty of larceny and faces the same penalties as grand or petit larceny depending on the value. The key distinction is the element of a fiduciary or employment relationship, which the prosecution must prove.
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Results may vary. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.