Grand Larceny Lawyer Fairfax — What Are Your Defense Options?
Grand larceny in Fairfax County is a felony under Va. Code § 18.2-95, defined as theft of property valued at $1,000 or more. A conviction can result in 1 to 20 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced defense for this serious charge. Our Fairfax grand larceny lawyer understands the local courts and prosecution strategies.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Understanding Grand Larceny Charges in Fairfax
Virginia law classifies theft based on the value of the property taken. Grand larceny is a felony, specifically defined in Va. Code § 18.2-95. The statute states that any theft of money, goods, or chattels valued at $1,000 or more constitutes grand larceny. This charge is distinct from petit larceny (theft under $1,000), which is a misdemeanor. The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you intentionally took property belonging to another with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it, and that the property’s value met or exceeded the $1,000 threshold. Valuation is a critical point of contention, often requiring experienced testimony or detailed receipts.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, refer to the Virginia Code § 18.2-95. Court procedures and filing information for Fairfax County can be found on the Fairfax County General District Court website.
handling a Grand Larceny Case in Fairfax County
Felony theft cases in Fairfax begin with an arrest or summons. The case will start in Fairfax County General District Court for a preliminary hearing to determine if there is probable cause to certify the felony charge to Circuit Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Fairfax County prosecutes these cases aggressively. A key local procedural fact is that the valuation of the stolen property is not just an element of the crime but often the primary battleground for a grand theft charge lawyer Fairfax. Disputing the prosecution’s valuation evidence can be a powerful defense strategy, potentially reducing a felony to a misdemeanor.
- Secure legal representation immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Attend the preliminary hearing in Fairfax County General District Court where your attorney can challenge probable cause.
- If the case is certified, prepare for arraignment and trial in Fairfax County Circuit Court.
- Work with your attorney to investigate the evidence, particularly the property valuation and intent.
- Evaluate all options, including pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or negotiate a favorable resolution.
Potential Penalties for Grand Larceny in Virginia
In Fairfax County, grand larceny is a felony punishable by 1 to 20 years in prison, or at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Larceny (Value $1,000+) | Felony | 1 – 20 years (or up to 12 months at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, difficulty obtaining employment/housing. |
| Grand Larceny (Firearm) | Felony | Mandatory minimum 2 years | Court discretion | None directly | Enhanced penalties, federal implications possible. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Grand Larceny Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your defense. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We have a deep understanding of the Fairfax County court system and the strategies employed by local prosecutors. Our approach is direct and focused on protecting your rights and future from the serious consequences of a felony theft conviction.
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 Experience in Fairfax County
Our attorneys have extensive experience in Fairfax County courts. For instance, we have successfully handled cases involving charges like “Obtain Money on False Pretence > = $200.00 Felony,” achieving reductions to misdemeanor dispositions. In Fairfax County, we have 501 documented criminal case results, including 336 dismissals or not-guilty verdicts and 143 charges reduced or amended.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Grand Larceny Defense Lawyer Near Fairfax County
Our Fairfax location at 4008 Williamsburg Court is centrally located to serve clients throughout Northern Virginia. We are accessible to those in Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area. As a grand larceny lawyer near Fairfax County courts, we provide convenient access for case consultations and court appearances.
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, United States
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. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000.
Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). 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. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Fairfax County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Fairfax County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Fairfax County General District Court.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Fairfax County?
Fairfax County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Fairfax County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
What makes grand larceny different from petit larceny in Virginia?
The value of the stolen property. Theft of property valued at $1,000 or more is grand larceny, a felony.
Theft of property valued under $1,000 is petit larceny, a misdemeanor. The valuation is a critical element the prosecution must prove in a grand larceny case.
Should I talk to the police if I’m suspected of grand larceny?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney.
Politely decline to answer questions without your felony theft defense lawyer Fairfax present. Anything you say can be used against you, and investigators are trained to obtain statements that may harm your defense.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Fairfax City and Prince William County. If you are facing other charges, explore our services as a Fairfax DUI lawyer or Fairfax family law attorney.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.