Felony Theft Lawyer Dinwiddie County, VA
You were arrested after an alleged theft where the property involved is valued at more than $1,000. Now you are facing a felony grand larceny charge in Dinwiddie County, Virginia. A conviction could mean prison time, a permanent felony record, and long-term consequences for employment, housing, and firearm rights. You need a attorney who knows the Dinwiddie County courts and can build a strong defense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, represents individuals charged with felony theft in Dinwiddie County. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, and his Of Counsel team bring over 120 years of combined legal experience to theft defense. Results may vary. To request a consultation, call (888) 437‑7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.
Strategy Options for Felony Theft Defense
When you contact our firm, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel begin by analyzing every aspect of the prosecution’s case. We scrutinize the valuation of the property—because if the value is under $1,000, the charge should be a misdemeanor petit larceny, not a felony. We also examine how the evidence was gathered, whether any statements you made were properly obtained, and whether there are grounds to challenge the search or seizure. Our team includes a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of law‑enforcement experience, which gives us a practical understanding of how theft investigations are conducted and where procedural errors may occur. We negotiate with the Dinwiddie County Commonwealth’s Attorney to pursue a charge reduction, a first‑offender disposition, or a dismissal when the evidence supports it.
What to Expect During a Felony Theft Case in Dinwiddie County
After an arrest for felony theft, you will appear before a magistrate for a bond determination. If bond is set, staying out of further legal trouble and complying with all bond conditions is important. The case begins at the Dinwiddie County General District Court, where a preliminary hearing is held. At that hearing, the Commonwealth’s Attorney must show probable cause that a felony occurred. If probable cause is found, the case is certified to the Dinwiddie County Circuit Court for trial. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time. Between the preliminary hearing and trial, your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence, challenge the indictment, or negotiate a plea agreement that resolves the case without a trial. The timeline varies by the court’s schedule and the complexity of the matter, but your lawyer will keep you informed at each step.
Penalty Overview for Felony Theft in Virginia
Virginia classifies theft based on the value of the property taken. Theft of goods or currency worth $1,000 or more constitutes grand larceny under Va. Code Section 18.2‑95. A grand larceny conviction is a felony. The court may impose a sentence of imprisonment for a term of 1 to 20 years, or, at the discretion of the jury, up to 12 months in jail. In addition to incarceration, a felony conviction can lead to a substantial fine, loss of firearm rights, a permanent criminal record, and difficulty securing employment or professional licenses. A skilled defense attorney may be able to negotiate a reduction to a misdemeanor, which carries significantly lower consequences and avoids the permanent stigma of a felony.
Under Virginia Code § 18.2-95, grand larceny—theft valued at $1,000 or more—is punishable by 1 to 20 years in prison, or at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail.
Source: Va. Code § 18.2-95. Full statute text
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
Attorney Credentials
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced criminal defense since 1997. As a former prosecutor, he understands how the prosecution builds its case and uses that insight to develop a defense strategy tailored to the facts of each case. Mr. Sris is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys include a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of law‑enforcement experience, bringing an inside perspective on police procedures, evidence collection, and investigative tactics. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have documented 4,739+ case results since 1997. In Dinwiddie County, the firm has secured 4 documented favorable outcomes in criminal matters. Results may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against felony theft charges?
Defense strategies focus on challenging the valuation of the property, the intent to permanently deprive, and the legality of the search or seizure. A defense attorney also investigates whether the property was actually taken, whether there are witnesses who can contradict the allegation, and whether the defendant had a claim of right. In Dinwiddie County, the Commonwealth’s Attorney must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt, and a skilled attorney will hold the prosecution to that burden. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.
What should I do if I am facing felony theft charges in Dinwiddie County?
Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately—do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve any documents, receipts, or communications that may be relevant. Avoid posting about the incident on social media. An attorney can advise you on whether to give a statement to law enforcement and can begin working to secure your release on favorable bond terms. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Dinwiddie County, Virginia?
Virginia allows expungement only for charges that ended in an acquittal, a dismissal, or a nolle prosequi—most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition must be filed in the Dinwiddie County Circuit Court. If your felony theft charge is dismissed or reduced to a non‑conviction disposition, you may be eligible to have your record cleared. An attorney can evaluate your eligibility under Va. Code § 19.2‑392.2.
How does bail work in Dinwiddie County?
A magistrate sets bond shortly after arrest; for first‑offense non‑violent felonies, the magistrate may release the defendant on recognizance or set a secured bond. If bond is denied or set too high, your attorney can request a bond hearing before the Dinwiddie County General District Court. The court considers factors such as community ties, flight risk, and the nature of the charge.
Do I need a lawyer for a felony theft charge in Dinwiddie County?
Yes—a felony conviction can result in a lengthy prison sentence and a permanent felony record that affects nearly every aspect of your life. Even if the evidence against you seems strong, an experienced attorney can identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, negotiate a reduced charge, or advocate for an alternative disposition. Self‑representation in a felony case is extremely risky.
Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Criminal Offenses) · Dinwiddie County Courts
To request a consultation with a felony theft lawyer serving Dinwiddie County, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747. You may also reach our Richmond Location at (804) 201‑9009. Richmond Location: 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225. By appointment. Call to schedule.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results may vary.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.