Petit Larceny Lawyer Fairfax County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Petit larceny in Fairfax 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 Fairfax County General District Court. A skilled petit larceny lawyer Fairfax County can challenge evidence and seek dismissal or reduction of charges.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law and Penalties
Petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods or services valued under $1,000. It is prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-96. This statute is the foundation for all theft charges under the felony threshold in Virginia. The classification as a Class 1 misdemeanor means it is among the most serious misdemeanor offenses.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has a deep understanding of Virginia’s theft laws and the local court procedures that can impact your case.
Official Legal Resources
For the official Virginia statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information, including location and hours, is available at the Fairfax County General District Court website.
Defending a Petit Larceny Charge in Fairfax County
In Fairfax County, prosecutors in the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office handle petit larceny cases. A common local procedural fact is the availability of first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon successful completion. For a shoplifting charge lawyer Fairfax County, the immediate focus is often on securing a favorable pretrial diversion agreement to avoid a permanent conviction.
- Initial Consultation: Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately after being charged or receiving a summons.
- Case Review: Your attorney will obtain the police report and evidence, such as surveillance video, to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Pre-Trial Strategy: Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for dismissal, reduction to a lesser offense, or entry into a first-offender program.
- Trial Preparation: If no agreement is reached, prepare a defense for trial, which may include challenging witness identification, proving ownership, or arguing a lack of intent to steal.
- Post-Trial Options: If convicted, explore appeals or, if eligible, petition for expungement after waiting the required period.
Potential Penalties for Petit Larceny in Fairfax County
In Fairfax County, petit larceny carries a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, plus court costs and potential restitution to the alleged victim.
| 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, difficulty finding employment, restitution payments. |
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 and brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to each case. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we pursue every available legal avenue for your defense. For a misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Fairfax County, our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the other side builds a case.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
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 in Fairfax County
Our firm has a documented history of positive outcomes in Fairfax County. For example, we have secured dismissals and reductions to nolle prosequi in multiple petit larceny cases under Va. Code § 18.2-96 at Fairfax County General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, ensuring a multi-layered defense approach.
Contact Our Fairfax County Petit Larceny Defense Lawyers
Our Fairfax location at 4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032 serves clients throughout the county and is centrally located for court appearances. We are your local petit larceny lawyer Fairfax County near the Fairfax County Courthouse, serving communities including Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area.
Availability: 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
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Fairfax County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Fairfax County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Cases are heard at Fairfax County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Fairfax 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 Fairfax County Circuit Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a petit larceny charge?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor theft charge can result in jail time and creates a permanent criminal record. A lawyer can negotiate for diversion programs, reduced charges, or dismissal, protecting your future.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Fairfax County?
Fairfax County General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor trials, like petit larceny. Fairfax County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
How does bail work for a petit larceny charge in Fairfax?
For a first-offense misdemeanor like petit larceny, a magistrate will often release you on personal recognizance (no payment). A secured bond is more typical for felony charges.
For more information on related legal matters, see our pages on Virginia criminal defense, or consider a Fairfax County DUI lawyer if facing multiple charges. We also serve neighboring areas like Falls Church.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for the most current advice regarding your specific situation.