Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer in Lexington, Virginia — What Are Your Options?
Petit larceny in Lexington 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 14 total documented case results across all practice areas in Lexington. A skilled petit larceny defense lawyer Lexington can challenge the prosecution’s evidence and seek dismissal or reduction of charges.
Virginia Petit Larceny Statute and Definition
Petit larceny, defined in Va. Code § 18.2-96, is the theft of goods valued under $1,000. It is distinct from grand larceny (theft over $1,000), which is a felony. The statute requires the prosecution to prove you intentionally took property belonging to another with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. The value of the item is a critical element, often determined by receipts or owner testimony.
Last verified: April 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the petit larceny statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information for Lexington cases can be found at the Lexington General District Court website.
Local Court Process for a Petit Larceny Charge
In Lexington, petit larceny cases are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Lexington General District Court. The court handles all misdemeanor trials. A common local procedural fact is that first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 are available; successful completion can result in dismissal. For a shoplifting charge lawyer Lexington, the immediate focus is often on securing a personal recognizance bond and preparing a defense that addresses intent and value.
- Receive a summons or warrant for petit larceny.
- Attend the arraignment at Lexington General District Court to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will file motions, review evidence (like store video), and negotiate with the prosecutor.
- Prepare for a bench trial in GDC or, if you demand a jury, transfer to Lexington Circuit Court.
- If convicted, your attorney can argue for alternatives to jail, such as fines, community service, or a first-offender program.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Lexington
In Lexington, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A conviction also creates a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent criminal record; impacts employment, housing, professional licenses |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have achieved 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. Our approach is “Advocacy Without Borders,” providing dedicated, case-specific defense. For a misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Lexington, our team understands the local court’s procedures and the strategies needed to protect your record.
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 for Theft Charges
Our attorneys have a documented history of achieving positive results in theft cases. For example, we have secured dismissals and reductions to nolle prosequi for clients charged with petit larceny in Fairfax County General District Court. In Lexington, our firm has 14 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 100% favorable outcome rate locally.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Lexington Petit Larceny Defense Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Lexington courts. We are accessible via I-81 and I-64.
Petit larceny defense lawyer near Lexington and Washington and Lee University.
Serving the community of Lexington.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for petit larceny in Lexington, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. The exact penalty depends on your record and the case facts.
Can a petit larceny charge be dropped in Lexington?
It depends. Charges may be dropped (nolle prosequi) if evidence is weak, the value is questionable, or through a first-offender program. A petit larceny defense lawyer Lexington can negotiate with the prosecutor for this outcome.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time shoplifting charge?
Yes. Even a first-time misdemeanor can result in jail time and creates a permanent record. A lawyer can seek alternatives like dismissal or a first-offender program to avoid a conviction.
What is the difference between petit larceny and shoplifting?
Shoplifting is a form of petit larceny that occurs in a retail setting. The legal charge and penalties under Va. Code § 18.2-96 are the same. A shoplifting charge lawyer Lexington defends against the same elements of theft.
Can petit larceny be expunged in Virginia?
Yes, but only if the charge results in an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Lexington Circuit Court under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
Internal Resources: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Lexington DUI Lawyer services.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.