Grand Larceny Lawyer Arlington County — Defending Felony Theft Charges
Grand larceny in Arlington County is a felony under Va. Code § 18.2-95, defined as theft of property valued at $1,000 or more. It carries 1 to 20 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 21 documented results in Arlington County. A grand larceny lawyer Arlington County can challenge evidence and seek reduced charges. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
Virginia Grand Larceny Law and Penalties
Grand larceny is a serious felony in Virginia. The law defines it as the theft of money, goods, or property valued at $1,000 or more. The statute also covers specific items regardless of value, such as firearms. This charge is distinct from petit larceny (theft under $1,000), which is a misdemeanor. The classification and potential penalties make securing a skilled grand larceny lawyer Arlington County critical from the outset of your case.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-95 (official Virginia General Assembly)
- Arlington County General District Court Website
Defending a Grand Larceny Charge in Arlington County
Arlington County prosecutors vigorously pursue grand larceny cases. The Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office handles these felonies, which begin with a preliminary hearing in Arlington County General District Court before potentially moving to Circuit Court for trial. A key local procedural fact is the availability of first offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 for certain eligible defendants, which can lead to dismissal upon successful completion. A felony theft defense lawyer Arlington County will examine every detail, from the property valuation to the chain of custody of evidence.
- Initial Court Appearance: You will be arraigned in Arlington County General District Court (1425 N. Courthouse Rd).
- Preliminary Hearing: The court determines if there is probable cause to certify the felony charge to Circuit Court.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If certified, you will be formally charged and enter a plea in Arlington County Circuit Court.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney reviews all evidence and files pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Your lawyer negotiates with the prosecutor for a reduction or you proceed to a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes a sentence based on Virginia sentencing guidelines.
Penalties for Grand Larceny in Virginia
In Arlington County, grand larceny is a felony punishable by 1 to 20 years in prison, or, in the case of a Class 6 felony, up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine at the jury’s discretion.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Larceny (Value $1,000+) | Felony (Class 6 or higher) | 1-20 years (Class 6: 1-5 years, or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 (for Class 6) | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, difficulty finding employment. |
| Grand Larceny of a Firearm | Felony (Class 6) | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory minimum sentences may apply. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Grand Larceny 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. We understand the severe impact a felony theft conviction can have on your future. Our grand theft charge lawyer Arlington County team uses this deep experience to build a strong defense focused on protecting your rights and freedom.
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 in Arlington County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a documented record in Arlington County courts. Our local experience includes 21 case results with 11 dismissals or not-guilty verdicts and 10 charges reduced or amended, reflecting a focused approach to achieving favorable outcomes. For instance, our team has secured dismissals (nolle prosequi) for charges like destruction of property and fare evasion in Arlington County General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. His background in accounting and information systems offers a unique advantage in financial-related theft cases.
Grand Larceny Defense Lawyer Near Arlington County
Our Arlington location serves clients facing charges at the Arlington County courts. We represent individuals in Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Grand Larceny Defense FAQs
What is the difference between grand larceny and petit larceny in Virginia?
The key difference is the value of the stolen property. Petit larceny is theft of items valued under $1,000 and is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Grand larceny involves property valued at $1,000 or more (or specific items like firearms) and is a felony.
Can a grand larceny charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends. A skilled felony theft defense lawyer Arlington County can often negotiate a reduction to petit larceny or another misdemeanor, especially for first-time offenders or if there are weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence regarding the property’s value.
What should I do if I am arrested for grand larceny in Arlington County?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone. Contact a grand larceny lawyer Arlington County as soon as possible to begin building your defense before your first court appearance.
How is the value of stolen property determined?
The Commonwealth must prove the value was $1,000 or more. Value is typically the fair market value at the time of the theft. Your attorney can challenge the valuation method, often through experienced testimony or by examining receipts and depreciation.
What are the long-term consequences of a grand larceny conviction?
A felony conviction results in a permanent criminal record, loss of certain civil rights (like voting), ineligibility for some professional licenses, and significant barriers to employment and housing. This makes a strong defense led by a grand theft charge lawyer Arlington County essential.
Related Legal Resources
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.