Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer in Arlington County, Virginia
Petit larceny in Arlington 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 21 documented results in Arlington County: 11 dismissed/not guilty, 10 reduced/amended. A strong defense can challenge intent, value, or identification.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny, defined under Va. Code § 18.2-96, is the theft of goods or services valued at less than $1,000. It is distinct from grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more), which is a felony. The prosecution must prove you took property belonging to another with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. The value of the item is a critical element, often determined by receipts or owner testimony.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Resources & Court Information
Understanding the official statutes and court procedures is essential. Petit larceny cases in Arlington County are heard at the Arlington County General District Court. You can review the official Virginia criminal code and access court resources through these links:
- Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly)
- Arlington County General District Court website
Defending a Petit Larceny Charge in Arlington County
In Arlington County General District Court, prosecutors must prove every element of petit larceny beyond a reasonable doubt. A common defense involves challenging the alleged value of the property, as the line between petit larceny (misdemeanor) and grand larceny (felony) is $1,000. Other defenses may include lack of intent to steal (e.g., you believed you had permission) or mistaken identity.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest at Arlington County General District Court.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge if procedural errors occurred.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will discuss the case with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, seeking a reduction (e.g., to trespassing) or dismissal.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge in GDC. You have a right to appeal to Circuit Court for a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence, which may include jail, fines, probation, and restitution.
- Expungement: If the charge is dismissed or you are found not guilty, you may petition for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2 to clear your record.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Arlington County
In Arlington 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 (Value < $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent criminal record, difficulty finding employment, restitution to victim. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your 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 “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we pursue every available defense strategy. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing unique insight into how the other side builds a case. We have documented results across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington, D.C.
Case Results in Arlington County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 21 documented criminal defense results in Arlington County, with a 100% favorable outcome rate (11 dismissed/not guilty, 10 reduced/amended). These results include cases like Destruction of Property Under $1,000 and Fare Evasion that were dismissed or not prosecuted (nolle prosequi).
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Arlington County 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: 703-589-9250 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Our Arlington location serves clients at the Arlington County courts. We provide defense for residents of Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington. As a petit larceny attorney Arlington County residents trust, we offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Arlington County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Arlington County 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 assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at Arlington County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Arlington County, 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 Arlington County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Arlington County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Arlington County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Arlington County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Arlington County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Arlington County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. A petty theft attorney Arlington County can protect your rights and work toward a dismissal or reduction.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Arlington County?
Arlington County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Arlington County 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.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance regarding your petit larceny defense in Arlington County.
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