Virginia Beach Grand Larceny Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Grand larceny in Virginia Beach is a felony under Va. Code § 18.2-95, defined as theft of property valued at $1,000 or more. It carries 1 to 20 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for these serious charges. Our Virginia Beach VA grand larceny lawyer team includes former prosecutors with deep knowledge of local courts. We offer 24/7 consultations.
Virginia Grand Larceny Law and Penalties
Grand larceny is a felony in Virginia, distinct from petit larceny (theft under $1,000). The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-95, sets the threshold at $1,000. This includes stealing money, goods, or property. The charge applies regardless of whether the theft was from a person, store, or building. Grand larceny from a person (like pickpocketing) has a lower threshold of $5 under Va. Code § 18.2-96.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
The firm was founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor. His background in accounting provides a strategic edge in theft cases involving financial evidence.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s larceny statutes, visit the official Virginia General Assembly website. Court information for Virginia Beach cases can be found at the Virginia Beach General District Court website.
Facing a Grand Larceny Charge in Virginia Beach Court
The key local procedural fact is that grand larceny is a felony, so your case begins with a preliminary hearing at Virginia Beach General District Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney must prove probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court for a jury trial. Virginia Beach prosecutors actively pursue these charges. A skilled theft attorney can challenge the evidence at the preliminary hearing, potentially getting the case dismissed before it reaches a jury.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty at Virginia Beach General District Court.
- Preliminary Hearing: The prosecution presents evidence to show probable cause for a felony. Your attorney can cross-examine witnesses.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If the case is certified, you will be re-arraigned in Virginia Beach Circuit Court.
- Discovery & Motions: Your property crime lawyer will file motions to suppress evidence and challenge the property valuation.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Most cases are resolved through negotiation. If not, your attorney will prepare for a jury trial.
Potential Penalties for Grand Larceny in Virginia
In Virginia Beach, grand larceny is a felony punishable by 1 to 20 years in prison, or, in the discretion of the jury, confinement in jail for up to 12 months and a fine of up to $2,500.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Larceny (Value $1,000+) | Felony | 1–20 years (or up to 12 months in jail at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, difficulty finding employment and housing. |
| Grand Larceny from a Person (Value $5+) | Felony | 2–20 years (or up to 12 months in jail at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Same as above, considered a more serious offense. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Virginia Beach Theft Defense Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We have a documented record of handling theft cases. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, is a former prosecutor with a background in accounting, which is invaluable for analyzing financial evidence in theft cases. Our approach is direct and focused on the details of your case.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has 8 total documented case results across all practice areas in Virginia Beach, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. For grand larceny defense, having a former prosecutor like Mr. Sris and a former trooper like Bryan Block on your side means your attorney understands how the Commonwealth builds its case from both sides of the aisle. A seasoned larceny defense lawyer from our team will work to challenge evidence, question valuation, and explore all defenses.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Virginia Beach Residents
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: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at Virginia Beach courts, including the Virginia Beach General District Court at 2425 Nimmo Parkway. We are accessible via I-64 and I-264. We are a grand larceny lawyer near Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747 — meetings are by appointment only.
Virginia Beach Grand Larceny Lawyer FAQ
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Virginia Beach, 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 Virginia Beach Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Virginia Beach. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Virginia Beach General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach VA grand larceny lawyer can protect your rights.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Virginia Beach?
Virginia Beach General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Virginia Beach 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.
Related Legal Services in Virginia Beach
If you are facing other charges, our firm can help. We also handle DUI defense in Virginia Beach and reckless driving charges. For broader Virginia defense, see our Virginia criminal lawyer hub page. We also serve 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.