Felony Theft Lawyer Arlington County, VA

If you are facing a felony theft charge in Arlington County, Virginia, the stakes are serious. Felony theft—also known as grand larceny—under Virginia Code § 18.2‑95 applies when the value of the property allegedly taken is $1,000 or more, or the theft is directly from a person. A conviction can result in incarceration, a permanent felony record, and lasting consequences for employment, housing, and civil rights. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, represents individuals accused of felony theft in the Arlington County General District Court and the Arlington County Circuit Court. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience to these matters. Results may vary. Our Arlington location serves clients from Crystal City to Ballston, by appointment. To request a consultation, call (888) 437‑7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

On this page

What Felony Theft Means in Arlington County

In Virginia, felony theft is defined by Va. Code § 18.2‑95 as grand larceny. The charge applies when the value of the property taken is $1,000 or more, or when the theft is committed directly from the person of another. The statute provides for a punishment of imprisonment in a state correctional facility for a term of not less than one nor more than twenty years, or confinement in jail for up to twelve months and a fine of not more than $2,500, either or both, at the discretion of the jury or the court hearing the case without a jury. The court also has the authority to order restitution. The $1,000 valuation threshold is frequently a critical point—if the prosecution cannot prove the property was worth $1,000 or more, the charge may be treated as petit larceny, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2‑96. In some circumstances, a theft that involves breach of trust may also be charged as embezzlement under Va. Code § 18.2‑111.

Arlington County, part of the Seventeenth Judicial District, handles felony theft cases through a two‑tier process. A preliminary hearing is held in the Arlington County General District Court, located at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd, Suite 2400. If the court finds probable cause, the case is certified to the Arlington County Circuit Court for trial. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Arlington County prosecutes the case. Understanding local court practice is an important part of building a defense. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are familiar with these courts and the procedures that govern felony proceedings in Arlington County, including bond hearings and pretrial motions.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Felony Theft Cases

Defending a felony theft accusation in Arlington County requires a thorough, fact‑intensive analysis. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel begin by reviewing the charging documents, police reports, witness statements, and any forensic or documentary evidence. They examine whether the Commonwealth can prove each element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt—particularly the value of the property and the identity of the accused. Disputed valuation is a common issue that may determine whether the charge remains a felony or is reduced to a misdemeanor. The defense also analyzes whether the property was taken with the intent to permanently deprive the owner, a required element of larceny.

If the facts and the law support a resolution short of trial, counsel may discuss the matter with the prosecutor. In Virginia, plea negotiations are permitted under Rule 3A:8 of the Rules of the Supreme Court of Virginia, and the Commonwealth’s Attorney may agree to amend the charge to a lesser offense, such as petit larceny, when the evidence warrants. If a trial is necessary, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel prepare the case for presentation in the Arlington County Circuit Court, challenging the prosecution’s evidence through cross‑examination and, when appropriate, presenting mitigating circumstances at sentencing. Throughout the process, the goal is to protect the client’s rights and work toward the most favorable outcome the law allows.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, is a multi‑state law firm serving clients in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, has practiced criminal defense for many years and appears regularly in Arlington County courts. His Of Counsel team includes experienced attorneys who bring backgrounds in law enforcement, prosecution, and litigation. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have handled criminal matters across Virginia, and in Arlington County they have secured 21 documented case results, including 11 dismissals or findings of not guilty and 10 amendments or reductions—a favorable outcome in each reported instance. Results may vary. in your case.

Mr. Sris’s legislative advocacy includes testifying before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). The firm accepts cases by appointment and can be reached at (888) 437‑7747.

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder

Admitted in Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York

Practicing since 1997

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the penalty for felony theft in Virginia?

Under Virginia Code § 18.2‑95, grand larceny is a felony punishable by one to twenty years in state prison, or up to twelve months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. The specific sentence depends on the facts of the case and the defendant’s criminal history. The court may also order restitution to the victim. A conviction results in a permanent felony record, which can affect employment, housing, and civil rights, including the right to vote and possess firearms.

Can a felony theft charge be reduced to a misdemeanor in Arlington County?

Yes, a felony theft charge can potentially be reduced to a misdemeanor, such as petit larceny, if the evidence supports a lower valuation or through negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney. In some cases, the prosecutor may agree to amend the charge when the value of the property is contested or when other mitigating factors exist. The decision rests with the prosecutor and must be approved by the court. An experienced criminal defense attorney can evaluate whether your case may qualify for a reduction.

What should I do if I am accused of felony theft in Arlington County?

If you are accused of felony theft, exercise your right to remain silent and ask to speak with an attorney. Do not discuss the case with police or anyone else. Contact a criminal defense lawyer who regularly appears in Arlington County courts. Early involvement can be critical—preserving evidence, identifying witnesses, and addressing potential arrest warrants. A lawyer can advise you on whether to make a statement and can begin working immediately to protect your interests.

How does the court process work for a felony theft charge in Arlington County?

After an arrest, the accused appears before a magistrate for bond; a preliminary hearing in the Arlington County General District Court determines whether probable cause exists. If the judge finds probable cause, the case is certified to the Arlington County Circuit Court, where a grand jury may indict, and trial follows. The timeline varies depending on the court’s docket and the complexity of the case. An attorney can explain each stage and develop a strategy tailored to your circumstances.

Do I need a lawyer for a felony theft charge in Arlington County?

Yes, a felony theft charge carries serious potential penalties, including imprisonment and a permanent criminal record, and having an experienced lawyer is essential. Even if you believe the evidence is weak, an attorney can assess the prosecution’s case, identify legal and factual defenses, and negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents clients at every stage, from the preliminary hearing through trial and, if necessary, appeal. For a consultation, call (888) 437‑7747.

If you are facing a felony theft charge and want to explore your legal options, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. offers consultations by appointment. Call (888) 437‑7747 to discuss your case.

Our Nearby Criminal Defense Locations

Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. also represents clients in surrounding Northern Virginia counties:

Official Virginia Legal Resources

Last reviewed: July 2026

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Results may vary.

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