Petit Larceny Lawyer Fredericksburg — What Are Your Defense Options?
Petit larceny in Fredericksburg 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 case results defending theft charges in the Fredericksburg General District Court. A strong defense is critical to avoid a permanent criminal record. Contact a petit larceny lawyer Fredericksburg for a case review.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fredericksburg General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny, defined under Virginia Code § 18.2-96, is the theft of goods or services valued at less than $1,000. It is distinct from grand larceny (theft over $1,000), which is a felony. The statute requires the prosecution to prove you intentionally took property belonging to another with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. Even a shoplifting charge for a low-value item can lead to a Class 1 misdemeanor conviction with significant penalties.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures for Fredericksburg are handled at the Fredericksburg General District Court website.
Local Court Process for a Petit Larceny Charge
In Fredericksburg, petit larceny cases are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Fredericksburg General District Court. The court handles all misdemeanor trials. Prosecutors often seek restitution and may offer first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon completion.
- Receive a summons or warrant following an arrest or investigation.
- Attend your arraignment at Fredericksburg GDC to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review evidence and negotiate with the prosecutor.
- Prepare for a bench trial in GDC or, if you demand it, a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- If convicted, seek sentencing alternatives or file an appeal within 10 days.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Fredericksburg
In Fredericksburg, 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 (Value < $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent criminal record, difficulty finding employment, possible restitution. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Fredericksburg Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing a combined 120+ years of legal experience. We have achieved over 4,739 case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In Fredericksburg, we have documented results defending clients against theft and other misdemeanor charges.
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
Our firm has successfully defended clients against petit larceny charges. For example, we have secured dismissals and reductions to nolle prosequi in Fairfax County General District Court for charges under Va. Code § 18.2-96.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Fredericksburg Petit Larceny Defense Lawyers
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fredericksburg courts (701 Princess Anne St). We are accessible via I-95, Route 1, and Route 3. If you need a petit larceny lawyer near Fredericksburg or a shoplifting charge lawyer Fredericksburg, we serve the Fredericksburg community.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Fredericksburg, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Fredericksburg 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 Fredericksburg General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Fredericksburg, 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 Fredericksburg Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a petit larceny charge?
Yes. Even misdemeanor theft charges carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Fredericksburg can challenge the evidence, negotiate for diversion, or seek a reduction.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Fredericksburg?
Fredericksburg General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Fredericksburg 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.
How does bail work in Fredericksburg, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Fredericksburg. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Fredericksburg General District Court.
Related Pages: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in Fairfax County and with DUI charges in Fredericksburg.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current legal guidance.