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 141 documented results in Prince William County. A skilled petit larceny lawyer Prince William County can challenge the evidence and intent required for conviction.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods valued under $1,000. Under Virginia law, this charge is distinct from grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more). The prosecution must prove you intentionally took property belonging to another with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince William County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Prince William County General District Court website.
Prince William County Court Process for Theft Charges
In Prince William County, all petit larceny cases begin at the General District Court. Prosecutors here often seek restitution and may offer first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Prince William County can negotiate for these alternatives to a conviction.
- Receive a summons or warrant for petit larceny.
- Appear for arraignment at Prince William County General District Court (9311 Lee Avenue).
- Your attorney reviews discovery and police reports for weaknesses.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for reduction, dismissal, or diversion.
- Prepare for trial if no acceptable plea agreement is reached.
- If convicted in GDC, you have the right to appeal for a new trial in Circuit Court.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Virginia
In Prince William 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, restitution, possible probation |
| Shoplifting (Retail Theft) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Trespass order from store, civil demand letter from retailer |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firm Experience in Prince William County
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In Prince William County, we have documented 141 criminal case results. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” approach means we pursue every available legal avenue for your defense.
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
Documented Case Results
Our attorneys have achieved favorable outcomes in theft cases. For example, we have secured dismissals for clients charged with petit larceny under Va. Code § 18.2-96 in Fairfax County General District Court. In Prince William County, our overall record includes 141 documented results: 118 dismissed/not guilty, 19 reduced/amended, and 1 other favorable outcome.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Prince William County Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Near Me
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Prince William County courts. We are your local petit larceny lawyer Prince William County, accessible from Manassas, Woodbridge, Dale City, Dumfries, Gainesville, Haymarket, Lake Ridge, and Occoquan.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for petit larceny in Prince William County?
Up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-96. A conviction also creates a permanent criminal record. A petit larceny lawyer Prince William County can work to avoid these penalties through dismissal or reduction.
Can a shoplifting charge be dropped in Virginia?
It depends. Prosecutors may drop charges if there are evidence problems, witness issues, or if you qualify for a first-offender program. An experienced shoplifting charge lawyer Prince William County can negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney and present mitigating factors to seek a dismissal or nolle prosequi.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time shoplifting charge?
Yes. Even a first-time misdemeanor can result in jail time and a permanent record. A lawyer can seek diversion programs that may lead to dismissal, protecting your future. The Prince William County Commonwealth’s Attorney often offers such programs through negotiation.
What is the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny?
The value of the stolen property. Petit larceny involves goods valued under $1,000 and is a misdemeanor. Grand larceny involves $1,000 or more and is a felony. The threshold is critical because a felony carries potential prison time. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Prince William County can challenge the valuation evidence.
Can a petit larceny conviction be expunged in Virginia?
No. Virginia law generally does not allow expungement of convictions. Only charges that result in an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi are eligible for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. This makes avoiding a conviction through skilled defense even more critical.
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense hub. We also assist clients in Fairfax County and with DUI charges in Prince William County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.