Grand Larceny Lawyer Fairfax, VA

A grand larceny charge in Fairfax, Virginia, is a serious felony defined by Va. Code § 18.2-95. If you are accused of taking property valued at $1,000 or more, or directly from another person, you face one to twenty years in prison, a permanent criminal record, and the loss of certain civil rights. The Fairfax County General District Court conducts an initial appearance and preliminary hearing for felony charges; if the charge proceeds, the case goes to the Fairfax County Circuit Court for trial. For incidents within the City of Fairfax, the Fairfax City General District and Circuit Courts handle the matter. Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., and his Of Counsel team have extensive experience representing clients accused of felony theft in these courts. Reach our location at (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

What Grand Larceny Means in Fairfax, Virginia

The value of the property alleged to have been taken determines whether a theft is charged as grand larceny or petit larceny. Under Va. Code § 18.2-95, theft of goods or money worth $1,000 or more is grand larceny—a felony. The same statute makes theft directly from a person a felony regardless of value, if the amount is $5 or more. A conviction brings not only incarceration and fines but also a permanent felony record that can affect employment, housing, professional licensing, and immigration status.

In Fairfax, the Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes grand larceny cases vigorously. The Fairfax County General District Court, located at 4110 Chain Bridge Road, is where a defendant first appears. That court handles the preliminary hearing to determine probable cause. If the charge is certified, the case moves to the Fairfax County Circuit Court for trial by jury or judge. For a grand larceny that allegedly occurred in the City of Fairfax, the process begins at the Fairfax City General District Court, 10455 Armstrong Street, and proceeds to the Fairfax City Circuit Court. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are familiar with the procedures and judges of these courts and work to protect clients’ rights at every stage.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Grand Larceny Cases

Every grand larceny case starts with a detailed review of the evidence. The prosecution must prove that the defendant took property that belonged to another person and that the value meets the statutory threshold. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel examine the chain of custody, witness statements, video footage, and any valuation methods. They may identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case—for example, a dispute over ownership, a lack of intent to permanently deprive the owner of the property, or an inflated valuation.

If the evidence supports it, the defense team negotiates with the prosecutor to seek a reduction of the charge to a misdemeanor or a dismissal. Whenever a negotiated resolution is not in the client’s best interest, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are prepared to take the case to trial. They have experience handling felony trials in Fairfax County and Fairfax City Circuit Courts. The defense strategy is built around the specific facts of the case and the client’s goals, always working toward the most favorable outcome possible. Results may vary.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., opened the firm in 1997 and has practiced criminal defense in Virginia for his entire career. A former prosecutor, he understands how the Commonwealth builds a case and uses that perspective to construct a strong defense. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). His Of Counsel team includes a former Virginia State Trooper, bringing unique insight into police procedures, investigative techniques, and evidence collection—a critical advantage in theft cases where search and seizure issues often arise. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience. Results may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the penalties for grand larceny in Fairfax, Virginia?

Grand larceny is a felony in Virginia punishable by one to twenty years in prison or, at the jury’s discretion, up to twelve months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. The sentence depends on the value of the property, the defendant’s prior record, and the circumstances of the offense. A felony conviction also results in the loss of firearm rights and can affect voting rights. The case is heard in the Fairfax County or Fairfax City Circuit Court.

How does a Virginia lawyer defend against grand larceny charges?

Defense strategies for grand larceny often challenge the valuation of the property, the identity of the alleged thief, or the element of intent. An attorney may argue that the item taken was worth less than $1,000, reducing the charge to petit larceny, a misdemeanor. They may also present evidence that the defendant believed they had a right to the property or that no taking occurred at all. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel evaluate every aspect of the prosecution’s case to identify the strong $1.

Do I need a lawyer for a grand larceny charge in Fairfax?

Yes, you should contact an experienced grand larceny lawyer immediately upon being charged or investigated. Early representation can influence the initial appearance, bond, and whether the charge is certified to the circuit court. A lawyer can protect your rights during police questioning and investigation, and may negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney before formal charges are filed. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.

Can a grand larceny charge be reduced or dismissed in Fairfax?

A grand larceny charge may be reduced to a misdemeanor or dismissed if the evidence does not support the felony threshold or if procedural errors occurred. For example, if the property’s actual value is under $1,000, the charge can be amended to petit larceny. In some cases, after a thorough defense investigation, the prosecution may decide not to pursue the charge. The firm has documented 501 criminal case results in Fairfax County, including 336 dismissals or not-guilty verdicts and 143 reduced charges. Results may vary.

What should I do if I am facing grand larceny charges in Virginia?

If you are facing a grand larceny charge, remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the facts of the case with anyone other than your attorney. Gather any documents, receipts, or evidence that may be relevant. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to speak with a legal professional about your situation.

How does the grand larceny court process work in Fairfax?

The process begins with an arrest and initial appearance in the Fairfax County or Fairfax City General District Court, where the judge advises the defendant of the charge and sets bond. A preliminary hearing follows within a reasonable time, where the Commonwealth must show probable cause. If the charge is certified, the case moves to the Circuit Court for arraignment, motions, and, if necessary, a jury trial. An experienced attorney guides the defendant through each step and advocates at every hearing.

For more information about criminal defense in surrounding localities, visit our pages on Fairfax County criminal defense and Prince William County criminal lawyer.

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Results may vary.

Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.