Grand Larceny Lawyer Anacostia — Defending Felony Theft Charges in DC
Grand larceny in Washington, D.C., is a felony theft charge prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office under D.C. Code § 22-3212. A conviction can result in up to 10 years in prison and a $5,000 fine. If you are facing these charges in Anacostia, you need a grand larceny lawyer Anacostia with experience in DC Superior Court.
What Is Grand Larceny Under DC Law?
In the District of Columbia, grand larceny is defined as the theft of property valued at $1,000 or more. This is a felony offense distinct from petit larceny (theft under $1,000). The statute governing this crime is D.C. Code § 22-3212. The prosecution must prove you intentionally took and carried away someone else’s property without permission, intending to permanently deprive the owner of it, and that the property’s value met the statutory threshold.
Last verified: March 2026 | DC Superior Court | DC Council Official Code
External Legal Resources
- D.C. Code Title 22, Chapter 32 (Theft) – Official DC Council legislation.
- DC Superior Court Official Website – Information on court procedures, locations, and forms.
handling a Grand Larceny Case in Anacostia
Grand larceny cases in Anacostia are heard at the DC Superior Court. A key procedural fact is that DC uses the Pretrial Services Agency for release decisions instead of a traditional cash bail system. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia (USAO-DC) prosecutes these cases, not a local district attorney.
- Arraignment and Initial Hearing: You will be formally charged and enter a plea. The court will address release conditions via the Pretrial Services Agency.
- Discovery and Investigation: Your attorney will obtain all evidence from the prosecution, including police reports, witness statements, and valuation reports.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your grand theft charge lawyer Anacostia may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors or rights violations.
- Plea Negotiations: Most cases are resolved through negotiation. A skilled attorney can argue for reduced charges, such as petit larceny, or alternative dispositions.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge at DC Superior Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence based on sentencing guidelines, your criminal history, and other factors.
Penalties for Grand Larceny in DC
In Washington, D.C., grand larceny is a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000, or twice the value of the stolen property, whichever is greater.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Larceny (Value ≥ $1,000) | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $5,000 or 2x value | Permanent felony record, difficulty finding employment, loss of professional licenses. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in DC Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented result in Washington, D.C., with a 100% favorable outcome rate for the cases we have handled in this jurisdiction. Our team understands the unique hybrid federal-local structure of DC’s justice system.
Case Results and Defense Strategy
Our approach as a grand larceny lawyer Anacostia involves a meticulous review of the evidence. We scrutinize police procedures, witness credibility, and, most importantly, the prosecution’s valuation of the stolen property. Successfully arguing that the value is below the $1,000 threshold can result in a reduction to a misdemeanor. In one documented DC case, our team secured a dismissal of a criminal charge.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney for complex DC criminal matters is Matthew Greene. With over 30 years of experience, including a former 14-year contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria, he provides invaluable insight for cases involving nuanced evidence and procedure.
Local Defense for Anacostia Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Arlington Location — 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 273-4104
By appointment only.
Our Arlington location is approximately 3 miles from DC Superior Court, accessible via I-395 and I-66. We serve as a dedicated grand larceny lawyer near Anacostia and surrounding communities, including Capitol Hill, Southwest Waterfront, Congress Heights, and Barracks Row. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747, with meetings by appointment only.
Grand Larceny Defense FAQs
What is the difference between grand larceny and petit larceny in DC?
The difference is the value of the stolen property. Theft of property valued at $1,000 or more is grand larceny, a felony. Theft under $1,000 is petit larceny, a misdemeanor.
Who prosecutes grand larceny cases in Anacostia?
Grand larceny cases in Anacostia are prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia (USAO-DC), not a local district attorney. All cases are heard at DC Superior Court.
Does DC use cash bail for grand larceny arrests?
No. DC uses the Pretrial Services Agency to assess risk and recommend release conditions. Most defendants are released without posting money, though conditions like check-ins or travel restrictions may apply.
Can a grand larceny charge be reduced?
Yes. A skilled felony theft defense lawyer Anacostia can often negotiate a reduction to petit larceny by challenging the property valuation or presenting mitigating circumstances, which avoids a felony conviction.
What should I do if I am arrested for grand larceny?
Remain silent and ask for an attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone until you have consulted with a grand theft charge lawyer Anacostia. Contact our firm for a 24/7 consultation.
Internal Resources
- DC Criminal Defense Lawyer Hub
- Federal Criminal Lawyer in Washington, D.C.
- Mr. Sris Attorney Profile
Page Last verified: March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.