Grand Larceny Lawyer Virginia, VA
You stopped at a store to pick up an item, and as you walked out, security stopped you. A manager called the police, and within minutes you were handcuffed and told you were being charged with grand larceny. Grand larceny is a felony in Virginia, carrying serious consequences that can follow you for years. If you are facing a grand larceny charge in Virginia, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can help. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, and his Of Counsel team have practiced criminal defense since 1997, including defending matters involving larceny allegations across the Commonwealth. Reach our firm at (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Grand Larceny Charges
Every Virginia grand larceny case starts with an assessment of the evidence. Grand larceny under Va. Code § 18.2-95 applies when the value of property taken is $1,000 or more, or when the property is taken directly from another person regardless of value. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel examine how the police gathered evidence, whether the accused was questioned without proper advisement of rights, and whether the alleged property’s value meets the statutory threshold. A charge that does not actually exceed the $1,000 threshold may be amended to a misdemeanor petit larceny or even reduced further, depending on the facts.
Defense strategy includes challenging witness identifications, surveillance footage, and the chain of custody of physical evidence. Mr. Sris, drawing on his prosecutorial background, knows how the Commonwealth’s Attorney builds a case. He and his Of Counsel work to identify procedural errors and factual weaknesses that can lead to a dismissal, a reduction, or a favorable resolution. Each case is evaluated individually; there is no one-size-fits-all approach to grand larceny defense.
What to Expect in a Virginia Grand Larceny Case
Grand larceny is a felony. The case begins in a Virginia General District Court with an arraignment and, if probable cause exists, a preliminary hearing. If the court finds probable cause, the case is certified to the Circuit Court for trial. In Circuit Court, the defendant has a right to a jury trial, and the jury may set punishment. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes the case, and the court may impose sentencing within the range authorized by statute.
The timeline varies by court calendar, complexity of the evidence, and whether pretrial motions are filed. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel navigate each step, from the initial hearing through any post-conviction relief, including expungement for charges that are dismissed or result in a nolle prosequi.
Penalty Overview
Under Va. Code § 18.2-95, grand larceny is punishable by imprisonment of not less than one nor more than twenty years, or, at the discretion of the jury or court trying the case without a jury, confinement in jail for not more than twelve months and a fine of not more than $2,500, either or both. The possible penalties are severe, and a conviction creates a permanent felony record. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work to achieve favorable outcomes for each client. Results may vary.
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 has practiced criminal defense since 1997. He is admitted 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). Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience, and the firm has documented 4,739+ firm-wide results, including larceny-related matters handled throughout Virginia. Results may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am facing grand larceny charges in Virginia?
If you are facing grand larceny charges in Virginia, contact a criminal attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all relevant documents and evidence. The statute of limitations and court deadlines under Virginia law require prompt action. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against grand larceny charges?
Defense strategies for grand larceny in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under Va. Code § 18.2-95 to build the strong $1. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel review every angle—from the initial stop to valuation of the property—to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Can a grand larceny charge be reduced to a misdemeanor in Virginia?
A grand larceny charge may be reduced to a misdemeanor such as petit larceny if the evidence shows the property value is less than $1,000, or if the prosecution agrees to amend the charge as part of a resolution. The court ultimately decides whether to accept an amended charge. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel pursue reduction when the facts support it.
Do I need a lawyer for a grand larceny case in Virginia?
Grand larceny is a felony with the potential for years of imprisonment and a permanent criminal record. Having an attorney experienced in Virginia criminal law is critical to protect your rights and present the strong $1. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, and his Of Counsel team have extensive experience defending felony theft charges. To discuss your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
What is the value threshold for grand larceny in Virginia?
Under Va. Code § 18.2-95, larceny of property valued at $1,000 or more, or larceny directly from another person regardless of value, constitutes grand larceny. Below $1,000, the offense is generally a misdemeanor petit larceny under § 18.2-96, unless the item is a firearm, which always triggers grand larceny. The value determination can be contested. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
What are the possible penalties for grand larceny in Virginia?
Grand larceny is punished as a felony: imprisonment of one to twenty years, or in the discretion of the jury or court, confinement in jail up to twelve months and a fine up to $2,500. A conviction also results in a permanent record that can affect employment, housing, and civil rights. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work toward the most favorable resolution available under the law.
For a closer look at the statutory framework, see our comprehensive analysis on the Virginia Criminal Defense page.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.