Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer in Fauquier County, Virginia
A petit larceny charge in Fauquier 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. provides defense for theft and shoplifting charges at the Fauquier County General District Court.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law and Penalties
Petit larceny in Virginia is defined as the theft of goods or services valued at less than $1,000. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-96, classifies it as a Class 1 misdemeanor. This is distinct from grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more), which is a felony. The law requires the prosecution to prove you intentionally took property belonging to another without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fauquier County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information and procedures can be found on the Fauquier County General District Court website.
Defending a Petit Larceny Charge in Fauquier County
In Fauquier County, the Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases at the General District Court at 6 Court Street in Warrenton. A strong defense often involves challenging the evidence of intent or value. For example, a shoplifting charge lawyer Fauquier County might argue you mistakenly left a store without paying or that the item’s value was misrepresented. The court also considers first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon successful completion.
- Initial Consultation: Contact a defense lawyer immediately after being charged or cited. Do not discuss the case with store security or police without an attorney.
- Case Review: Your attorney will obtain the evidence, including security footage and witness statements, to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Pre-Trial Strategy: Options may include negotiating for a diversion program, seeking a reduction to a lesser offense like trespassing, or filing motions to suppress evidence.
- Court Appearance: Your attorney will represent you at all hearings in Fauquier County General District Court, advocating for the best possible resolution.
- Resolution or Trial: If a favorable plea cannot be reached, your attorney will prepare to defend you at trial, where the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Potential Penalties for Petit Larceny in Fauquier County
In Fauquier County, a petit larceny conviction carries a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, plus a permanent criminal record that affects employment and housing.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Theft under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months in jail | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent criminal record, difficulty finding employment, possible civil demand from retailer |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal 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 over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the local procedures in Fauquier County courts 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 for Theft Charges
Our attorneys have achieved favorable results in theft cases. For instance, we have secured dismissals and reductions to nolle prosequi for clients facing petit larceny charges in Northern Virginia courts. In one documented result, a petit larceny charge was amended to a lesser offense, avoiding a theft conviction. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our team, including former Virginia State Trooper Bryan Block, uses investigative experience to challenge the evidence in theft cases. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, provides strategic oversight on complex matters.
Contact Our Fauquier County Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fauquier County courts in Warrenton, accessible via I-66, Route 29, and Route 17. We are a petit larceny defense lawyer near Warrenton, New Baltimore, Bealeton, Marshall, and The Plains.
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
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for petit larceny in Fauquier County?
Yes, it is a Class 1 misdemeanor. The maximum penalty is up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. The actual sentence can vary based on criminal history, the item’s value, and the case circumstances.
Can a shoplifting charge be dropped in Virginia?
It depends. Charges may be dropped if evidence is weak, through a first-offender diversion program (Va. Code § 19.2-303.2), or via a negotiated agreement with the prosecutor. An experienced shoplifting charge lawyer Fauquier County can evaluate your case for these possibilities.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time shoplifting charge?
Yes. Even a first-time conviction creates a permanent criminal record. A lawyer can often secure a diversion program that results in dismissal, avoiding a conviction entirely.
What is the difference between petit larceny and trespassing?
Petit larceny requires proof of intent to steal. Trespassing only requires proof you were on property without permission. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Fauquier County may negotiate a reduction from larceny to trespassing, which carries lesser penalties.
How does a petit larceny charge affect my record?
A conviction is a permanent Class 1 misdemeanor on your criminal record, visible to employers, landlords, and licensing boards in background checks. An expungement is generally not available for convictions, only for dismissals or acquittals.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Fairfax County and with related charges such as DUI in Fauquier County.