Fairfax County Petit Larceny Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
A petit larceny charge 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 501 documented results in Fairfax County. A skilled petit larceny lawyer Fairfax County can challenge the prosecution’s evidence and seek dismissal or reduction of your charge.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law and Penalties
Petit larceny, defined in Va. Code § 18.2-96, is the theft of goods or services valued at less than $1,000. This statute is the foundation for all theft charges under this threshold in Virginia. The law requires the Commonwealth to prove you intentionally took property belonging to another without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. The value is determined at the time of the alleged offense.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. Mr. Sris’s background in accounting and information systems provides a distinct advantage in analyzing financial evidence often central to theft cases.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information and procedures can be found on the Fairfax County General District Court website.
Handling a Petit Larceny Case in Fairfax County
In Fairfax County, prosecutors in the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office handle petit larceny charges. The court at 4110 Chain Bridge Road is known for its high volume. A strong defense often involves scrutinizing surveillance footage, witness identification, and the store’s loss prevention procedures. Many first-time offenders may be eligible for a first offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon completion.
- Receive a summons or warrant for petit larceny.
- Attend your arraignment at Fairfax County GDC to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review all evidence, including police reports and store video.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for dismissal, reduction, or diversion.
- Prepare for trial if a favorable plea agreement cannot be reached.
- If convicted, seek an expungement after the waiting period if eligible.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Fairfax County
In Fairfax County, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by 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 (Theft under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent criminal record, difficulty finding employment, immigration consequences for non-citizens. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Fairfax County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, has a documented record of handling theft cases. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into how these cases are built and challenged. We have secured numerous dismissals and favorable reductions for clients facing petit larceny charges in Fairfax.
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 for Theft Charges
Our firm has a documented history of results 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. These outcomes are part of our 501 documented results in the locality.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense Representation
Our Fairfax location at 4008 Williamsburg Court is centrally located to serve clients at the Fairfax County courts. We represent individuals from Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area. If you need a petit larceny lawyer near Fairfax County, we provide accessible defense.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Fairfax County Petit Larceny Lawyer FAQ
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 a shoplifting charge be reduced in Fairfax County?
It depends. For first-time offenders, a misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Fairfax County can often negotiate for a diversion program or reduction to a lesser offense like trespassing. Success depends on the evidence, your record, and the specific circumstances of the alleged shoplifting incident.
Do I need a lawyer for a petit larceny charge?
Yes. Even a first-time charge carries the risk of jail time and creates a permanent criminal record that affects employment and housing. A lawyer can protect your rights, challenge evidence, and seek the best possible outcome.
What is the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny in Virginia?
The key difference is the value of the stolen property. Petit larceny involves property valued under $1,000 and is a misdemeanor. Grand larceny involves property valued at $1,000 or more and is a felony, carrying much more severe penalties.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Fairfax County, Virginia?
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.
For representation from a skilled petit larceny lawyer Fairfax County, contact our office. We also recommend reviewing our Virginia criminal defense hub for more information. For related local services, see our pages on DUI defense in Fairfax and reckless driving defense in Fairfax.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.