Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer in King William County, Virginia
Petit larceny in King 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 2 documented results in King William County. A strong defense can challenge the prosecution’s evidence of intent and value. Contact a petit larceny defense lawyer King William County today.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law and Penalties
Petit larceny, defined in Va. Code § 18.2-96, is the theft of goods or services valued at less than $1,000. If the value is $1,000 or more, the charge becomes grand larceny, a felony. The distinction hinges on the prosecution’s proof of value, which is a common point of defense. The statute requires proof that you intended to permanently deprive the owner of their property.
Last verified: April 2026 | King William County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and forms are available at the King William County General District Court website.
Defending a Petit Larceny Charge in King William County
In King William County General District Court, prosecutors must prove the value of the stolen item was under $1,000. A common defense strategy involves challenging the evidence used to establish this value, such as receipts or owner testimony. Many cases involve misunderstandings or lack of intent to steal.
- Initial Court Appearance: Your first hearing is an arraignment at King William County General District Court (351 Courthouse Lane, Suite 201) where you enter a plea.
- Review Evidence: Your attorney will obtain discovery from the Commonwealth’s Attorney to review witness statements, video, and valuation evidence.
- Negotiation Phase: Before trial, your lawyer may negotiate for a reduction to a lesser offense like trespassing or an infraction, which carries no jail time.
- Trial or Disposition: 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.
Potential Penalties for Petit Larceny
In King William County, petit larceny carries a penalty of up to 12 months in jail and a fine up to $2,500, plus a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent criminal record, difficulty finding employment, loss of professional licenses. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in King William County Courts
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In King William County, we have secured specific results for clients, including having charges reduced to non-jailable infractions.
Documented Case Results
Our attorneys have represented clients in King William County General District Court. For example, we have secured amendments to lesser charges. Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome. Of Counsel attorney Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, contributes significant prosecutorial insight to our defense strategies.
Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Near King William County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the King William County courts (351 Courthouse Lane). We represent individuals in King William, West Point, and Aylett.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in King William County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in King William 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 petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96).
Can criminal charges be expunged in King William 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 King William County Circuit Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for petit larceny in King William County?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor carries up to 12 months jail and creates a permanent criminal record. Charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at King William County General District Court.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in King William County?
King William County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. King William County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
What should I look for in a petty theft attorney King William County?
Look for an attorney with specific experience in Virginia theft laws and local court procedures. A lawyer familiar with King William County General District Court can best handle the process and advocate for a favorable outcome.
How can a petit larceny attorney King William County help my case?
A local attorney can challenge the evidence of value and intent, negotiate for a reduction to a non-theft offense, and explore diversion programs to avoid a conviction on your record.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles DUI defense in King William County and reckless driving cases. For more information on Virginia criminal defense, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.