Petit Larceny Lawyer Prince William County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Petit larceny in Prince William 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 at the Prince William County General District Court. A skilled petit larceny lawyer Prince William County can challenge evidence and seek dismissal or reduction.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince William County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
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. This statute classifies the offense as a Class 1 misdemeanor. The case is heard at the Prince William County General District Court located at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information and procedures are available at the Prince William County General District Court website.
Defending a Petit Larceny Charge in Prince William County
In Prince William County, prosecutors must prove you intentionally took property belonging to another without permission. A common defense involves challenging the valuation of the stolen items. If the value cannot be proven to be under $1,000, the charge may be reduced or dismissed. The court also considers intent; an honest mistake is a valid defense.
- Receive a summons or warrant for petit larceny.
- Attend your arraignment at Prince William County GDC to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review evidence, including store video and witness statements.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or diversion program.
- Prepare for trial to argue defenses like mistaken identity or lack of intent.
- If convicted, seek an appeal to Prince William County Circuit Court for a jury trial.
Potential Penalties for Petit Larceny
In Prince William County, petit larceny carries a penalty of up to 12 months in jail and a fine up to $2,500, plus court costs and restitution.
| 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, restitution, possible probation |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Prince William County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We have a documented record of handling theft cases in Northern Virginia. Our approach is based on a detailed review of the facts and evidence in each 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
Our firm’s managing attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, which provides an advantage in cases involving financial evidence.
Case Results
Our firm has achieved favorable outcomes in theft cases. For example, we have secured dismissals for charges of petit larceny under $200 in Fairfax County. Each case is unique and depends on its specific facts and evidence.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Prince William County Petit Larceny Defense
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Prince William County courts. We are a petit larceny lawyer near Manassas and Woodbridge. We serve communities including Dale City, Dumfries, Gainesville, Haymarket, Lake Ridge, and Occoquan.
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 Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Prince William County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Prince William 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 is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Prince William 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 Prince William County Circuit Court.
Do I need a misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Prince William County for a shoplifting charge?
Yes. Even a first-time shoplifting charge is a Class 1 misdemeanor with potential jail time. A lawyer can negotiate for a diversion program or challenge the evidence. Contact a shoplifting charge lawyer Prince William County for a case review.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Prince William County?
Prince William County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Prince William 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 arrest?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors like petit larceny. A secured bond, requiring a bail bondsman, is more typical for felony charges.
For more information on Virginia criminal defense, see our Virginia criminal lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Fairfax County. If you are facing other charges, consider a Prince William County DUI lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.