Petit Larceny Lawyer Prince William County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Petit larceny in Prince William 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 141 documented results in Prince William County. A skilled petit larceny lawyer Prince William County can challenge evidence and seek dismissal or reduction of charges. Contact us for a 24/7 consultation.
Virginia Petit Larceny Statute and Penalties
Petit larceny, defined as the theft of goods valued under $1,000, is governed by Va. Code § 18.2-96. It is distinct from grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more), which is a felony. In Prince William County, this charge is prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Prince William County General District Court at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince William County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to building a strong defense against theft allegations.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court procedures, visit the Prince William County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for a Petit Larceny Charge
In Prince William County, prosecutors often seek restitution and may offer first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Prince William County can negotiate for these alternatives to avoid a permanent conviction.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the case if procedural errors exist.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction, dismissal, or diversion program.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial before a judge in General District Court.
- Appeal or Expungement: You can appeal a guilty verdict to Circuit Court for a jury trial. If the case is dismissed, you may later petition for expungement.
Potential Penalties for Petit Larceny in Virginia
In Prince William 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 (Theft under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent criminal record; restitution; difficulty with employment, housing, and professional licenses. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firm Authority and Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, provides “Advocacy Without Borders.” With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and more than 4,739 case results firm-wide, we have a documented record of favorable outcomes. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, offering unique insight into case construction and defense strategy.
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
Our secondary attorney on criminal matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, which is particularly useful in cases involving financial evidence.
Documented Case Results
In Prince William County, we have 141 documented criminal case results: 118 dismissed/not guilty, 19 reduced/amended, and 1 other favorable outcome, representing a 98% favorable outcome rate. For example, we have secured dismissals for clients charged with petit larceny in neighboring Fairfax County.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Prince William County Petit Larceny Defense
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Prince William County courts. We are a petit larceny lawyer near Prince William County and also serve Manassas, Woodbridge, Dale City, Dumfries, Gainesville, Haymarket, Lake Ridge, and Occoquan.
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, United States
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for petit larceny in Prince William County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Cases are heard at Prince William County General District Court. Our firm has 141 documented results in the locality.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Can a shoplifting charge be expunged in Virginia?
It depends. Expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2 is generally available only if the charge results in an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi. Most convictions cannot be removed from your record, making a strong initial defense critical.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time shoplifting charge?
Yes. Even a first-time misdemeanor carries the potential for jail time and creates a permanent record. A shoplifting charge lawyer Prince William County can seek diversion programs or dismissal to protect your future.
What’s the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny?
The key difference is the value of the stolen property. Petit larceny involves property valued under $1,000 and is a misdemeanor. Grand larceny involves property valued at $1,000 or more and is a felony, with much more severe penalties.
What should I do if I am accused of theft?
Do not speak to store security or police without an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately. Anything you say can be used against you in court.
Internal Resources
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in Fairfax County. For related legal issues in Prince William County, consider our DUI defense services.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current guidance.