Petit Larceny Lawyer King George County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Petit larceny under $1,000 is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-96, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine in King George County. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in King George County. A strong defense can challenge the prosecution’s evidence of intent and value.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law and Penalties
Petit larceny, defined as the theft of goods valued under $1,000, is governed by Va. Code § 18.2-96. It is distinct from grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more), which is a felony. The statute requires the prosecution to prove you intentionally took property belonging to another with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. The value of the property is a critical element, often determined by receipts or owner testimony.
Last verified: April 2026 | King George County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and forms are available at the King George County General District Court website.
Defending a Petit Larceny Charge in King George County
In King George County General District Court, prosecutors must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt. Common defenses include lack of intent (you believed you had permission or would pay), mistaken identity, or incorrect valuation placing the item under the $1,000 felony threshold. The court at 10446 Government Center Blvd handles all initial proceedings.
- Arraignment: Appear in King George County GDC to hear the formal charge and enter a plea.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your attorney obtains police reports, witness statements, and store video to challenge the evidence.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence if it was obtained illegally or to dismiss if the value is not proven.
- Negotiation or Trial: Work toward a favorable plea agreement or proceed to a bench trial before a judge.
- Sentencing or Diversion: If convicted, argue for minimal penalties; if eligible, seek a first offender dismissal.
- Appeal: You have the right to appeal a guilty verdict to the King George County Circuit Court for a new trial.
Potential Penalties for Petit Larceny in Virginia
In King George County, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, plus 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; impacts employment, housing, professional licenses |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in King George County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and a record of 4,739+ case results firm-wide. In King George County, we have 4 documented criminal defense results, with 3 dismissed or not guilty outcomes. Our attorneys understand the local procedures at the King George County General District Court.
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’s approach focuses on detailed case investigation. For example, in Fairfax County GDC, we secured dismissals for clients charged with petit larceny under Va. Code § 18.2-96. In one case, the charge was reduced to a nolle prosequi (dropped by the prosecutor). These results demonstrate our method of challenging the evidence of intent and value.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Petit Larceny Lawyer Near King George County
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the King George County courts. We are accessible via Route 3 and Route 301. We provide representation for residents of King George and Dahlgren.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for petit larceny in King George County, Virginia?
It is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. The case is heard at King George County General District Court.
Can a shoplifting charge be reduced in King George County?
It depends. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer King George County can negotiate for a reduction to a lesser offense like trespassing or disorderly conduct, especially for first-time offenders, which may avoid a theft conviction on your record.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time shoplifting charge?
Yes. Even a first offense carries jail time and creates a permanent criminal record. A lawyer can seek diversion programs or fight the charge based on evidence issues.
What is the difference between petit larceny and shoplifting?
Shoplifting is a type of petit larceny that occurs in a retail setting. The legal charge and penalties under Va. Code § 18.2-96 are the same. A shoplifting charge lawyer King George County defends against this specific allegation.
Can petit larceny be expunged in Virginia?
It depends. Expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2 is generally available only if the charge was dismissed, you were found not guilty, or it was nolle prossed. Most convictions cannot be expunged.
Related Legal Services in King George County
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides representation for DUI charges and family law matters in King George County. For a broader view of our criminal defense practice, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Prince William County.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for the most current guidance regarding your petit larceny charge in King George County.