Petit Larceny Lawyer Prince William County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Petit larceny in Prince William 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 141 documented results in Prince William County. A skilled petit larceny lawyer Prince William County can challenge the evidence and seek dismissal or reduction of charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince William County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods valued under $1,000. It is prosecuted as a Class 1 misdemeanor under Virginia Code § 18.2-96. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses. The case is heard at the Prince William County General District Court located at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, provides defense for these charges.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court information, visit the Prince William County General District Court website.
Prince William County Court Process for Theft Charges
In Prince William County General District Court, prosecutors from the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office handle petit larceny cases. The court often sees first-offender motions under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon completion of terms.
- Receive a summons or warrant for petit larceny.
- Attend your arraignment at Prince William County General District Court to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review discovery, which includes store security footage or witness statements.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction, dismissal, or diversion program.
- Prepare for trial to argue lack of intent, mistaken identity, or value under the $1,000 threshold.
- If convicted in GDC, you have the right to appeal for a new trial in Prince William County Circuit Court.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in Virginia
In Prince William County, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a fine up to $2,500.
| 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; impacts employment, professional licenses, immigration status. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firm Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. The firm’s combined attorney experience exceeds 120 years, with over 4,739 documented case results firm-wide. In Prince William County specifically, the firm has 141 documented criminal case results. The team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into how these cases are built and challenged.
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
Documented Case Results
In Prince William County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 141 documented criminal case results, including 118 dismissals or not guilty verdicts and 19 charges reduced or amended. For example, the firm has secured dismissals for petit larceny charges in neighboring Fairfax County General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Prince William County Petit Larceny Defense
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Prince William County courts. We are a petit larceny lawyer near Prince William County, serving Manassas, Woodbridge, Dale City, Dumfries, Gainesville, Haymarket, Lake Ridge, and Occoquan.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, 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 a misdemeanor in Prince William County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Prince William County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include petit larceny and assault.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Prince William 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 Prince William County Circuit Court after the case is concluded in your favor.
Do I need a misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Prince William County?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor theft charge can result in jail time and a permanent record. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer Prince William County can negotiate for diversion programs, challenge evidence, and protect your rights in Prince William County General District Court.
What should I do if I am charged with shoplifting in Prince William County?
Contact a shoplifting charge lawyer Prince William County immediately. Do not discuss the incident with store security or police without an attorney. A lawyer can review the evidence, such as surveillance footage, and advise you on the best defense strategy, which may include lack of intent or mistaken identity.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Prince William County?
Prince William County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Prince William 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.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.