Grand Larceny Lawyer Prince George County, VA
Grand larceny in Virginia is a serious felony defined by Va. Code § 18.2-95 as the unlawful taking of property valued above the statutory threshold, or any theft directly from another person. A conviction can carry a prison term of one to twenty years, though a jury may opt for up to twelve months in jail as a misdemeanor in some cases. In Prince George County, these charges are prosecuted through the Prince George County General District Court for preliminary hearings and, for felonies, the Prince George County Circuit Court at 6601 Courts Drive, Prince George, VA 23875. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., through its Richmond location, represents individuals accused of grand larceny in the Eleventh Judicial District. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, and his Of Counsel team focus on protecting clients’ rights and building thorough defenses. Call (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation about your case. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.
What Grand Larceny Means in Prince George County
Virginia law distinguishes between grand larceny and petit larceny based on the value of the property taken. Under Va. Code § 18.2-95, theft of property valued above the statutory threshold is a felony. The same statute also classifies any theft directly from the person of another as grand larceny, regardless of the dollar amount. A person convicted faces a sentence of one to twenty years of incarceration. At the jury’s discretion, the punishment may be reduced to confinement in jail for up to twelve months, but the offense remains a felony and carries long‑term collateral consequences. Petit larceny, by contrast, involves property worth less than the statutory threshold and is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-96.
In Prince George County, the General District Court handles first appearances, bond hearings, and preliminary hearings for felony charges. If the court finds probable cause, the case moves to the Prince George County Circuit Court for trial. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Prince George County prosecutes the case. Because the facts that separate a felony from a misdemeanor often turn on the alleged value of the property, early evaluation of the evidence is important. Our Richmond location serves clients throughout the county and is familiar with the procedures and personnel of these courts.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Grand Larceny Cases
Defending a grand larceny charge begins with a careful review of the prosecution’s evidence. The value of the stolen property is often the central issue, and an experienced attorney examines how the Commonwealth intends to prove that the property meets the statutory threshold. The defense may also challenge the reliability of witness identifications, the legality of any search or seizure, and the chain of custody for physical evidence. In many cases, negotiating with the Commonwealth’s Attorney can lead to a reduction to petit larceny or an alternative disposition that avoids a felony conviction.
Trial preparation includes identifying procedural errors, preparing cross‑examination of witnesses, and, when appropriate, presenting evidence that undermines the charge. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel handle each case with attention to the specific facts. The goal is to obtain the most favorable resolution possible, whether through a negotiated agreement, a deferred‑disposition program where available, or a trial. Early involvement of counsel can influence the trajectory of the case from the initial appearance through the final resolution.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who founded the firm in 1997. 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). His background in criminal prosecution gives him insight into how the Commonwealth’s Attorney builds a theft case.
Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience and over 4,739 documented results. Results may vary. The firm’s attorneys work collaboratively, and every non‑Sris attorney serves in an Of Counsel capacity — there are no associates or junior attorneys. Clients receive attention from lawyers with substantial courtroom experience and a commitment to thorough preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the penalties for grand larceny in Virginia?
Under Va. Code § 18.2-95, grand larceny is a felony punishable by one to twenty years in prison, though a jury may reduce the sentence to up to twelve months in jail. The value threshold is an amount set by statute, or any theft from the person. A conviction also results in a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and firearm rights. The court may impose fines, restitution, and probation. For a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
How can a Virginia defense lawyer challenge a grand larceny charge?
A defense may scrutinize the alleged value of the property — because the statutory threshold determines whether the charge is a felony — and challenge the evidence linking the accused to the theft. Attorneys may examine the legality of any search, the reliability of witness identifications, and the chain of custody of items. Negotiation with the Commonwealth’s Attorney can sometimes lead to a reduction to petit larceny, a misdemeanor, if the evidence of value is weak. To discuss your specific situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
What should I do if I am facing grand larceny charges in Prince George County?
Contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Do not discuss the facts with anyone other than your lawyer. Preserve any documents or evidence you have. Be aware that statements to law enforcement can be used against you. An attorney can advise you on your rights, arrange bail if needed, and begin building a defense. In Prince George County, the case will proceed through General District Court and potentially Circuit Court. For guidance, call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Can a grand larceny conviction be expunged in Virginia?
Virginia law allows expungement of criminal charges only for acquittals, nolle prosequi, or dismissals. A conviction cannot be expunged. However, if a grand larceny charge is amended to a lesser offense or dismissed through deferred disposition, expungement may become available. An experienced attorney can evaluate whether a reduction or dismissal is achievable. To request a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
How does bail work for a grand larceny arrest in Prince George County?
After arrest, a magistrate sets bond based on the nature of the charge, the defendant’s ties to the community, and flight risk. For a felony such as grand larceny, secured bond — where a bail bondsman typically charges a percentage of the bond amount — is common. Bond can be reviewed and appealed at the Prince George County General District Court. An attorney can argue for lower bond or personal recognizance. To discuss your situation, call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Do I need a lawyer for a grand larceny charge in Prince George County?
Yes. Grand larceny is a felony with severe potential consequences, including prison time and a permanent record. The legal process in Prince George County involves both the General District Court for preliminary proceedings and the Circuit Court for trial. An attorney can challenge the prosecution’s case, negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, and protect your rights at every stage. For a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Our firm handles criminal defense in other Virginia localities, including Fairfax County, Fairfax City, Falls Church, Prince William County, and Manassas. For a full overview of our criminal defense practice, see Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer.
Primary sources: Virginia Code § 18.2‑95 (grand larceny) · Prince George County Combined Courts · Virginia Judicial System.
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