Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer in King George County, Virginia
A petit larceny charge in King George 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 4 documented results in King George County. A strong defense is critical to protect your record and future. Contact a petit larceny defense lawyer King George County today.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law and Penalties
Petit larceny, defined in Va. Code § 18.2-96, is the theft of goods or services valued under $1,000. It is distinct from grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more, a felony). In King George County, these charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the King George County General District Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | King George County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings a deep understanding of Virginia theft laws and local court procedures. Our background includes handling cases involving shoplifting, theft from a person, and other forms of larceny.
Official Legal Resources
For the official Virginia statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the King George County General District Court website.
Defending a Petit Larceny Charge in King George County
In King George 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 lack of intent, mistaken identity, claim of right, or valuation disputes. For a shoplifting charge lawyer King George County, early intervention is key to challenging evidence and witness statements before a case is set for trial.
- Initial Consultation: Discuss the arrest details, evidence, and potential defenses with your attorney immediately.
- Case Review: Your lawyer will obtain police reports, witness statements, and store security footage if applicable.
- Pre-Trial Strategy: Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction, diversion program, or dismissal based on the evidence.
- Trial Preparation: If no agreement is reached, prepare a defense for trial in King George County General District Court.
- Post-Trial Options: If convicted, explore appeals to King George County Circuit Court or expungement eligibility if the case is later dismissed.
Potential Penalties for Petit Larceny in Virginia
In King George County, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail, a fine up to $2,500, and creates a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Value < $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. Our attorneys have a combined 120+ years of legal experience. We have achieved over 4,739 case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” approach means we provide dedicated, full representation for every client.
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
Documented Case Results
Our firm has 4 documented case results in King George County, with 3 resulting in dismissals or not-guilty verdicts—a 75% favorable outcome rate. In Fairfax County, we have successfully defended clients against petit larceny charges, securing dismissals and reductions to nolle prosequi.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Near King George County
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the King George County courts. We are accessible via Route 3, Route 301, and Route 206. We provide representation for clients in King George and Dahlgren.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in King George County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in King George 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.
Can criminal charges be expunged in King George 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 King George County Circuit Court.
How does bail work in King George County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors like petit larceny. Secured bond (requiring a bail bondsman) is more typical for felonies.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a petit larceny charge?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor theft charge carries jail time and creates a permanent record. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer King George County can challenge evidence, negotiate for diversion programs, and protect your rights in King George County General District Court.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in King George County?
King George County General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. King George County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any jail-eligible offense.
Internal Resources
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Fairfax County. If you are facing other charges, consider our King George County DUI Lawyer services.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.