Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer in Manassas, Virginia — What Are Your Options?
Petit larceny in Manassas 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. provides full representation for theft charges at Manassas General District Court. A strong defense can challenge intent, value, or identification. Contact a petit larceny defense lawyer Manassas for a case review.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law and Penalties
Petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods valued at less than $1,000. It is prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-96. This statute classifies the offense and sets the maximum penalties. The charge is distinct from grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more), which is a felony.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm uses his background in accounting and information systems to analyze financial evidence in theft cases.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Manassas General District Court website.
Manassas Court Process for Petit Larceny
All petit larceny cases in Manassas begin at the Manassas General District Court at 9311 Lee Avenue. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases. A key local procedural fact is that first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 may be available, where successful completion can lead to dismissal.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge based on procedural errors.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will discuss the case with the prosecutor, seeking a reduction, dismissal, or diversion program.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, the case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge. If an agreement is reached, the court will accept the plea and impose sentence.
Potential Penalties for Petit Larceny in Manassas
In Manassas, 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 (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent criminal record; possible difficulty with employment, housing, and professional licenses. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Firm Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience, the firm has a documented record of handling theft-related charges. Our approach is informed by former prosecutorial experience and a deep understanding of local court procedures.
Case Results
While specific Manassas petit larceny results are client-confidential, SRIS, P.C. has extensive experience defending theft charges across Virginia. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results. For example, our team, including attorney Kristen Fisher, has successfully argued for reduced charges and diversions in similar misdemeanor cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Near Manassas
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas courts. We are accessible via I-66 and Route 28. We serve clients throughout Manassas and surrounding communities.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for petit larceny in Manassas, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Manassas carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Common charges include petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96). Cases are heard at Manassas General District Court (9311 Lee Avenue).
Can a petit larceny charge be dropped in Manassas?
It depends. A prosecutor may drop charges if evidence is weak, such as problems with witness identification or proving the value of the item. An attorney can negotiate for a dismissal, often through a first-offender diversion program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2.
Do I need a petty theft attorney Manassas for a first-time shoplifting charge?
Yes. Even a first-time charge is a serious misdemeanor with potential jail time. A lawyer can seek diversion to avoid a conviction, protect your record, and guide you through the Manassas General District Court process.
What is the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny in Virginia?
The key difference is the value of the stolen property. Petit larceny involves property valued under $1,000 and is a misdemeanor. Grand larceny involves property valued at $1,000 or more and is a felony, carrying potential prison time.
How does a petit larceny defense lawyer Manassas challenge the charge?
A defense may challenge the prosecution’s ability to prove you intended to permanently deprive the owner of the property, question the valuation of the item, or challenge the legality of the stop or arrest that led to the charge.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing criminal charges in Manassas, you may also need information on other matters. For broader defense, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer page. For related charges in nearby areas, consider a criminal defense lawyer in Fairfax. For other legal needs in Manassas, a DUI lawyer in Manassas may be relevant.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.