Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Caroline County — What Are Your Options?
Petit larceny in Caroline County 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 5 documented results in Caroline County. A petit larceny defense lawyer Caroline County can challenge the prosecution’s evidence and seek dismissal or reduction of your charge.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods valued under $1,000. It is prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-96. This statute classifies the offense and sets the potential penalties. The charge is heard at the Caroline County General District Court located at 111 Ennis Street, Bowling Green, VA 22427.
Last verified: April 2026 | Caroline County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings extensive experience to theft cases. Our background provides insight into how these cases are built by the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information and procedures can be found on the Caroline County General District Court website.
Caroline County Court Process for Theft Charges
In Caroline County, prosecutors must prove you intentionally took property belonging to another with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. Value is a key element; if the prosecution cannot prove the value meets the $1,000 threshold, the charge may be reduced or dismissed. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Caroline County can file motions to suppress evidence if it was obtained improperly.
- Receive a summons or warrant for petit larceny.
- Appear for arraignment at Caroline County GDC to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review discovery and file pre-trial motions.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a possible resolution.
- Proceed to a bench trial in GDC or demand a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- If convicted, seek alternatives like a first offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Caroline County
In Caroline County, petit larceny carries a penalty of up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500, as it is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
| 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 | Criminal record, difficulty finding employment, immigration consequences for non-citizens. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Caroline County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our combined attorney experience exceeds 120 years. We focus on providing full representation for theft charges. In Caroline County, we have documented case results for clients facing criminal allegations.
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
Caroline County Case Results
Our firm has a record of handling cases in Caroline County. We have achieved favorable outcomes for clients. For example, our team has secured dismissals for charges including Obtaining Money by False Pretenses and Burning or Destroying a Building in Caroline County Circuit Court. In GDC, we have also had charges like Defective Equipment dismissed.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on criminal matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with multi-state bar admissions who personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute.
Petit Larceny Lawyer Near Caroline County, VA
Our Fairfax location is accessible to clients in Caroline County, located off I-95. We serve communities including Bowling Green and Carmel Church. For a petit larceny defense lawyer Caroline County residents can consult, contact us 24/7.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
FAQs: Petit Larceny Defense in Caroline County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Caroline County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Caroline County 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. Petit larceny under $1,000 is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-96.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Caroline County, 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 Caroline County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a shoplifting charge in Caroline County?
Yes. A shoplifting charge lawyer Caroline County can protect your rights. Even misdemeanor theft carries up to 12 months in jail and creates a permanent record. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases at Caroline County General District Court.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Caroline County?
Caroline County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Caroline County 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 charge in Caroline County?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors like petit larceny. Secured bond is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Caroline County General District Court.
For more information on criminal defense in Virginia, see our Virginia criminal defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Fairfax County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Caroline County DUI defense lawyers.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.