Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer in Augusta County, Virginia
Petit larceny in Augusta 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 in Augusta County. A petit larceny defense lawyer Augusta County can challenge the prosecution’s evidence and seek dismissal or reduction of your charge.
Last verified: April 2026 | Augusta County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods valued at less than $1,000. It is prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-96. This charge is distinct from grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more), which is a felony. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Augusta County must prove you intentionally took property belonging to another without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. The value of the item, often determined by a store receipt or owner’s estimate, is a critical element of the charge.
Official Resources
For the official statute, see the Virginia General Assembly website (Va. Code § 18.2-96). Court information is available at the Augusta County General District Court website.
Augusta County Court Process for Petit Larceny
All petit larceny cases in Augusta County begin at the Augusta County General District Court at 6 East Johnson Street in Staunton. Prosecutors there often have high caseloads, which can create opportunities for a skilled defense. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Augusta County can negotiate with the prosecutor before your trial date. For a shoplifting charge lawyer Augusta County, the key is often challenging the evidence of intent or value.
- Receive a summons or warrant for petit larceny.
- Attend your arraignment at Augusta County GDC to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review discovery (police reports, video) and negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial before a judge in GDC.
- You have an absolute right to appeal a guilty verdict to Augusta County Circuit Court for a new jury trial.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Augusta County
In Augusta County, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
| 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 | Criminal record, difficulty finding employment, immigration consequences for non-citizens. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” approach means we fight aggressively for every client in Augusta County. We understand the local court procedures and how to build an effective defense against theft allegations.
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 in Theft Defense
Our attorneys have a history of achieving positive outcomes in theft cases. For example, we have secured dismissals and reductions to nolle prosequi in Fairfax County petit larceny cases. In Augusta County, we have 13 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 100% favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Near Augusta County
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients facing charges at the Augusta County courts in Staunton. We are accessible via I-81 and I-64. We provide representation for communities throughout the area, including Staunton, Waynesboro, Fishersville, Stuarts Draft, Verona, and Churchville.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
505 N Main St #103, Woodstock, VA 22664, 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 a misdemeanor in Augusta County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Augusta 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 petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96). Cases are heard at Augusta County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Augusta 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 Augusta County Circuit Court. First-offense dispositions may qualify through deferred programs.
How does bail work in Augusta County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Augusta County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Augusta County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a petit larceny charge in Augusta County?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor carries up to 12 months jail and creates a permanent criminal record. Charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. A petit larceny defense lawyer Augusta County can protect your rights and work toward the best possible outcome.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Augusta County?
Augusta County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Augusta 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.
Related Legal Information
If you need a Virginia criminal defense lawyer, visit our state hub. For help in nearby areas, see our pages for a Shenandoah County criminal defense lawyer or a Rockingham County criminal defense lawyer. In Augusta County, we also assist with DUI defense and family law matters.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current legal guidance.