Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia
Petit larceny in Chesterfield 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 5 documented results in Chesterfield County for theft-related charges. A skilled petit larceny defense lawyer Chesterfield County can challenge the prosecution’s evidence and seek dismissal or reduction of your charge.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods valued under $1,000. It is prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-96. The prosecution must prove you intentionally took and carried away another’s property without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. The value of the stolen property is a critical element; if the Commonwealth cannot prove the value is under $1,000, the charge may be reduced or dismissed.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Chesterfield County Court Process for Theft Charges
In Chesterfield County, petit larceny cases are heard at the Chesterfield County General District Court. Prosecutors often rely on surveillance footage and witness statements. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Chesterfield County can file pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or challenge the chain of custody.
- Receive a summons or warrant for petit larceny.
- Attend your arraignment at Chesterfield County General District Court (9500 Courthouse Road).
- Your attorney will review evidence and negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Decide whether to accept a plea agreement or proceed to a bench trial.
- If convicted, you may face penalties including jail, fines, and restitution.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Chesterfield County
In Chesterfield County, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, and 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 | Permanent criminal record, restitution, difficulty finding employment. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Chesterfield County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have a combined 120+ years of legal experience. We have achieved 4,739+ case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In Chesterfield County, we have documented results for theft-related charges, including dismissals and reductions.
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 handled numerous theft cases in the region. For example, we secured a dismissal for a client charged with “PETIT LARC <$200 NOT FRM PERSN" in a neighboring jurisdiction. In Chesterfield County, we have achieved favorable outcomes for clients facing misdemeanor theft charges. Mr. Sris, the firm's founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Chesterfield County Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Chesterfield County courts (9500 Courthouse Road). We represent clients from Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley. If you need a shoplifting charge lawyer Chesterfield County, contact us for a consultation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Chesterfield County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Petit larceny under $1,000 is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Chesterfield 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 Chesterfield County Circuit Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a shoplifting charge in Chesterfield County?
Yes. Even a first-time shoplifting charge is a Class 1 misdemeanor that can result in jail time and a permanent record. A shoplifting charge lawyer Chesterfield County can protect your rights and seek the best possible outcome.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Chesterfield County?
Chesterfield County General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Chesterfield County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
How does bail work for a petit larceny charge in Chesterfield County?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors like petit larceny. Secured bond (using a bail bondsman) is more typical for felonies.
Internal Resources
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Chesterfield County DUI Lawyer services. Learn more about Mr. Sris.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.