Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Greene County — What Are Your Options?
Petit larceny in Greene 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 documented results defending theft charges in Greene County. A petit larceny defense lawyer Greene County can challenge evidence and seek dismissal or reduction. Contact us 24/7 for a case review.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods or services valued under $1,000. It is prosecuted under Virginia Code § 18.2-96. This statute classifies the offense as a Class 1 misdemeanor, which is the most serious misdemeanor category in Virginia. The case is heard at the Greene County General District Court located at 85 Stanard Street in Stanardsville.
Last verified: April 2026 | Greene County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information and procedures can be found on the Greene County General District Court website.
Defending a Petit Larceny Charge in Greene County
In Greene County, prosecutors must prove you intentionally took property belonging to another without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner. Common defenses include mistaken identity, lack of intent, or ownership disputes. The Greene County Commonwealth’s Attorney handles these prosecutions. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Greene County can evaluate police reports and witness statements for weaknesses.
- Arraignment: Your first court date at Greene County GDC where you enter a plea.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your attorney obtains all evidence from the prosecutor.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Filing motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge.
- Negotiation or Trial: Working toward a favorable plea agreement or preparing for a bench trial.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, arguing for minimal penalties, or appealing to Circuit Court.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Greene County
In Greene County, a petit larceny conviction carries up to 12 months in jail, a fine up to $2,500, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Record Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Value < $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Permanent Criminal Record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Greene County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings combined legal experience to every case. We focus on a detailed, case-specific approach for clients in Greene County.
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
Case Results
Our firm has a documented result in Greene County: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate for this locality). In other Virginia jurisdictions, our attorneys have achieved dismissals and reductions for petit larceny charges. For example, in Fairfax County GDC, we have secured dismissals and nolle prosequi outcomes for clients charged under Va. Code § 18.2-96.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Near Greene County, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Greene County courts. We are accessible via Route 29 and Route 33. We provide representation for residents in Stanardsville and Ruckersville.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Greene County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Greene 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. Common charges include petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Greene 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 Greene County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Greene County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Greene County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Greene County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a shoplifting charge in Greene County, Virginia?
Yes. A shoplifting charge lawyer Greene County is important because even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. Charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Greene County General District Court.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Greene County?
Greene County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Greene 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.