Petit Larceny Lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia — What Are Your Defense Options?
Petit larceny in Alexandria is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-96, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for theft charges under $1,000 at Alexandria General District Court. Contact a petit larceny lawyer Alexandria for a case review.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law and Penalties
Petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods or services valued at less than $1,000. Under Virginia law, this charge is distinct from grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more, a felony). The statute governing this offense is Va. Code § 18.2-96.
Last verified: April 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has built a practice focused on criminal defense. The firm’s combined legal experience exceeds 120 years.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the Virginia larceny statutes, refer to the official Virginia General Assembly website. For Alexandria court procedures and forms, visit the Alexandria General District Court website.
Handling a Petit Larceny Case in Alexandria
In Alexandria, petit larceny cases are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Alexandria General District Court. The court handles all misdemeanor trials. A conviction can impact employment, housing, and professional licenses.
- Receive a Summons or Warrant: You may receive a summons to appear or be arrested. Note your court date and charges.
- First Appearance (Arraignment): At Alexandria GDC, you will be formally advised of the charges and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Case Review and Discovery: Your petit larceny legal counsel Alexandria will obtain all evidence from the prosecutor, including witness statements, video, and loss prevention reports.
- Negotiation or Motion Filing: Based on the evidence, your attorney may negotiate for a reduction or dismissal, or file motions to suppress evidence.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial before a judge in Alexandria GDC.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If found guilty, the judge will impose sentence. You have the right to appeal the verdict to Alexandria Circuit Court for a new trial.
Potential Penalties for Petit Larceny in Alexandria
In Alexandria, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, plus potential restitution to the victim.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Theft under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent criminal record, restitution, difficulty finding employment. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Alexandria Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. The firm’s tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects its commitment to client representation. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience, the firm has handled 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. Mr. Sris, the founding attorney, is a former prosecutor.
Case Results for Theft Charges
While specific Alexandria petit larceny results are protected by client confidentiality, the firm’s overall record includes numerous theft charge resolutions. Firm-wide, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes, including dismissals, reductions, and not guilty verdicts. Of Counsel attorney Kristen M. Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, also contributes significant litigation experience to the firm’s criminal defense team.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense Representation
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 with cases at Alexandria courts. We are accessible to residents of Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne. As a petit larceny lawyer near Alexandria, we offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. All meetings are by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Alexandria, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Alexandria 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 Alexandria General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Alexandria, Virginia?
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 Alexandria Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Alexandria, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Alexandria. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Alexandria General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Alexandria 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 petit larceny attorney Alexandria can protect your rights and explore defenses.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Alexandria?
Alexandria General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Alexandria 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.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page, or learn about defense in a neighboring area from our criminal defense lawyer in Arlington. If you are facing other charges, consider our Alexandria DUI lawyer.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.