Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer in King George County, Virginia
Petit larceny in King George 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 4 documented results in King George County. A Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer King George County from our firm can challenge the prosecution’s evidence and seek dismissal or reduction of your charge.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods valued under $1,000. It is prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-96. The Commonwealth must prove you intentionally took property belonging to another without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. This charge is distinct from grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more), which is a felony.
Last verified: April 2026 | King George County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the King George County General District Court website.
Defending a Petit Larceny Charge in King George County
In King George County General District Court, prosecutors must prove every element of petit larceny beyond a reasonable doubt. A common defense is challenging the identification of the accused or the intent to permanently deprive. For a shoplifting charge, a lawyer may argue there was no concealment or intent to avoid payment. The court at 10446 Government Center Blvd handles all misdemeanor trials.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty.
- Discovery: Your attorney will obtain all evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge.
- Trial or Negotiation: Your case will proceed to a bench trial before a judge or be resolved through a plea agreement.
- Sentencing or Disposition: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence, which may include jail, fines, and restitution.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in King George County
In King George County, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail, a fine up to $2,500, and a permanent criminal record.
| 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 | Permanent criminal record; possible restitution; affects employment and housing. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience and a documented record of firm-wide 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to vigorous representation.
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Case Results
Our firm has 4 documented results in King George County, with 3 cases dismissed or found not guilty, representing a 75% favorable outcome rate. In Fairfax County, we have successfully defended clients against petit larceny charges, securing dismissals and reductions to nolle prosequi.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
King George County Petit Larceny Lawyer Near You
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the King George County courts. We are accessible via Route 3, Route 301, and Route 206. We provide legal services to King George and Dahlgren.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in King George County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in King George County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Cases are heard at King George County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in King George 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 George County Circuit Court.
How does bail work in King George County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond (requiring a bail bondsman) is typical for felonies. Bond decisions can be appealed to the General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a shoplifting charge in King George County?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor shoplifting charge carries potential jail time and creates a permanent record. A shoplifting charge lawyer King George County from our firm can protect your rights and work toward the best possible outcome.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in King George County?
King George County General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. King George County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from the GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
For more information on related legal matters, see our pages on Virginia criminal defense, criminal defense in Fairfax County, and DUI defense in King George County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures can change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current legal guidance regarding your petit larceny charge.