Fairfax VA Petit Larceny Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Petit larceny in Fairfax, Virginia, is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-96, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense representation for theft charges in Fairfax City General District Court.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law and Penalties
Petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods or services valued under $1,000. Under Virginia law, this is distinct from grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more), which is a felony. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-96, classifies the offense and sets the potential penalties. The case is prosecuted by the Fairfax City Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Fairfax City General District Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax City 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 every case. Our theft attorney team understands that even a misdemeanor theft charge can have serious consequences for employment, housing, and professional licensing.
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly) – Defines petit larceny.
- Fairfax City General District Court – Official court website for procedures and information.
Local Court Process for a Petit Larceny Charge in Fairfax City
In Fairfax City, petit larceny cases begin with an arrest or summons. The key local procedural fact is that the Fairfax City General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials, including petit larceny. For a shoplifting lawyer, understanding the local court’s approach to first-time offenders and diversion programs is critical. Prosecutors here routinely review evidence like surveillance footage and witness statements.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Conference: Your larceny defense lawyer will meet with the prosecutor to discuss evidence and potential resolutions.
- Motion Hearing: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge if procedural errors occurred.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, a bench trial before a judge will be scheduled.
- Sentencing or Diversion: If found guilty, the judge will impose sentence. For eligible first offenders, your attorney may advocate for a deferred disposition under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2.
- Appeal: You have the right to appeal a guilty verdict to the Fairfax City Circuit Court for a new trial.
Potential Penalties for Petit Larceny in Fairfax
In Fairfax City, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500, plus 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 directly | Permanent criminal record, possible restitution, difficulty finding employment. |
| Petit Larceny 3rd+ Offense (Va. Code § 18.2-104) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Felony record, loss of voting rights, ineligibility for certain professions. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Theft Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and a track record of 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide, we bring substantial resources to your defense. Our property crime lawyer team includes former prosecutors like Kristen Fisher, who understand how the Commonwealth builds its cases. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, brings a former prosecutor’s perspective and a background in accounting, which is particularly valuable in theft cases involving financial evidence.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
SRIS actively practices in Fairfax City. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. While specific local results are not disclosed, our approach for theft charges focuses on securing dismissals, reductions to lesser offenses like trespassing, or entry into first-offender diversion programs to avoid a conviction.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Fairfax VA Petit Larceny Lawyer Near You
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fairfax City courts. We are accessible via Route 236 (Main Street), Route 50, and I-66, near landmarks like Fairfax City Hall and George Mason University. We serve the Fairfax community.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Fairfax Petit Larceny Defense FAQs
What is the penalty for petit larceny in Fairfax City, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A third offense can be charged as a Class 6 felony. The case is heard at Fairfax City General District Court.
Can a petit larceny charge be dropped in Fairfax?
It depends. A theft attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor for a dismissal, often in exchange for restitution, community service, or completing a theft class. Lack of evidence or procedural errors may also lead to a dismissal by the court or prosecutor.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time shoplifting charge?
Yes. Even a first-time misdemeanor creates a permanent public record. A shoplifting lawyer can seek a diversion program to avoid a conviction, which is crucial for future employment and housing applications.
What is the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny in Virginia?
The value of the stolen property. Petit larceny is theft of items valued under $1,000 and is a misdemeanor. Grand larceny involves property worth $1,000 or more and is a felony, carrying potential prison time.
Is a larceny conviction eligible for expungement in Virginia?
Generally, no. Virginia law (Va. Code § 19.2-392.2) only allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, or cases where charges were dropped (nolle prosequi). A conviction for petit larceny typically cannot be removed from your record.
Related Legal Services in Fairfax
If you are facing other charges, our firm provides full defense. Learn more about our Fairfax traffic lawyer services or consult our Fairfax family law attorney for related civil matters. For other theft-related issues, see our Virginia criminal defense hub or our pages for neighboring areas like Fairfax County criminal defense.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your specific case.