Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer in Loudoun County, Virginia — What Are Your Options?
Petit larceny in Loudoun County is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-96, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 42 documented criminal defense results in Loudoun County. A skilled petit larceny defense lawyer Loudoun County can challenge the prosecution’s evidence of intent and value to seek dismissal or reduction.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law and Penalties
Petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods valued at less than $1,000. It is distinct from grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more), which is a felony. The statute governing this offense is Va. Code § 18.2-96. Conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses.
Last verified: April 2026 | Loudoun County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly)
- Loudoun County General District Court Website
Local Court Process for Petit Larceny in Loudoun County
All petit larceny cases in Loudoun County begin at the Loudoun County General District Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases. A key local procedural fact is that first-time offenders may be eligible for a first offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon successful completion. A petit larceny attorney Loudoun County can handle this option.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to challenge evidence or seek discovery.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or diversion program.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial in General District Court, or you can appeal to Circuit Court for a jury trial.
Potential Penalties for Petit Larceny in Loudoun County
In Loudoun County, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying 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 under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None (unless driving related) | Permanent criminal record, difficulty finding employment, loss of professional licenses. |
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 each case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand that a theft charge can derail your future, and we provide focused, strategic defense.
Documented Case Results in Loudoun County
Our firm has a documented history of favorable outcomes in Loudoun County courts. We have achieved 42 documented criminal defense results in the locality, including 35 cases dismissed or found not guilty and 5 cases reduced or amended.
- FAIL TO DIM HEADLIGHTS (Va. Code § 46.2-1034): Charge dismissed via Nolle Prosequi in Loudoun County GDC.
- OPERATING WITH RADAR DETECTOR/JAM DEVICE (Va. Code § 46.2-1079): Charge dismissed via Nolle Prosequi in Loudoun County GDC.
- FAIL STOP/YIELD ENTERING HIGHWAY (Va. Code § 46.2-821): Charge dismissed via Nolle Prosequi in Loudoun County General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on complex criminal matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, which provides a critical edge in cases involving financial evidence.
Local Defense Representation in Loudoun County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Ashburn Location — 20130 Lakeview Center Plaza, Room No. 403
Ashburn, VA 20147
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 571-279-0110 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Our Ashburn location serves clients at the Loudoun County courts. We are your local petit larceny defense lawyer Loudoun County near Ashburn, Leesburg, and Sterling. We serve communities across Loudoun County including Ashburn, Leesburg, Sterling, Purcellville, South Riding, Brambleton, Aldie, Hamilton, Lovettsville, Middleburg, and Round Hill. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Petit Larceny in Loudoun County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Loudoun County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Loudoun 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 Loudoun 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 Loudoun County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a petit larceny charge in Loudoun County?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor petit larceny charge carries up to 12 months in jail and creates a permanent criminal record visible to employers. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases at Loudoun County General District Court.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Loudoun County?
Loudoun County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Loudoun 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.
How does bail work in Loudoun County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors like petit larceny in Loudoun County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Loudoun County General District Court.
Related Legal Information
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. If you are facing other charges in Loudoun County, consider reading about DUI defense in Loudoun County or reckless driving defense in Loudoun County.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.