Petit Larceny Lawyer Manassas — What Are Your Defense Options?
Petit larceny in Manassas is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-96, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled numerous documented petit larceny cases in Manassas General District Court. A skilled petit larceny lawyer Manassas can challenge the evidence and seek dismissal or reduction of charges.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods valued under $1,000. It is prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-96. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses. The case is heard at the Manassas General District Court located at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court information, visit the Manassas General District Court website.
Handling a Petit Larceny Case in Manassas
In Manassas, prosecutors often seek convictions for retail theft and shoplifting charges. An experienced misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Manassas knows that early intervention is key. The first court date is an arraignment where you enter a plea.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will review all evidence, including store surveillance and witness statements.
- File pre-trial motions to suppress improperly obtained evidence or challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a favorable resolution, such as dismissal, reduced charge, or diversion.
- Prepare for trial if a satisfactory plea cannot be reached, presenting a defense to the judge.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Manassas
In Manassas, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail, a fine up to $2,500, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Value under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent criminal record, difficulty finding employment, possible immigration consequences. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Legal Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing over 120 years of combined legal experience. We understand how theft cases are built and how to defend against them.
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
Our firm has a documented history of favorable outcomes in theft cases. For example, we have secured dismissals and reductions to nolle prosequi for clients charged with petit larceny in Northern Virginia courts.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on complex criminal matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with multi-state bar admissions who personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute.
Contact Our Manassas Petit Larceny Lawyers
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas courts. We are a short drive from I-66 and Route 28. We provide legal help for petit larceny and shoplifting charges to residents across Manassas.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
Phones 24/7/365; Office by appointment Mon-Fri 9AM-6PM; emergency evenings/weekends
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Manassas, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Manassas 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 Manassas, Virginia?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. A successful first-offender program for petit larceny may lead to a dismissal that is eligible for expungement.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a shoplifting charge in Manassas?
Yes. Even a first-time shoplifting charge is a Class 1 misdemeanor with potential jail time. A shoplifting charge lawyer Manassas can protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and seek alternatives to a conviction that creates a permanent record.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Manassas?
Manassas General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor trials, including petit larceny. Manassas Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense with potential jail time.
How does bail work for a petit larceny arrest in Manassas?
For a first-offense misdemeanor like petit larceny, a magistrate will often release you on personal recognizance (no payment). For more serious or repeat offenses, a secured bond may be required, typically involving a bail bondsman.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in Fairfax County and with DUI charges in Manassas.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.