Felony Theft Lawyer Lexington — Defending Against Grand Larceny Charges
Felony theft in Lexington, Virginia, is a serious crime prosecuted as grand larceny under Va. Code § 18.2-95, carrying 1 to 20 years in prison. If you are accused of stealing property valued at $1,000 or more, you need a felony theft lawyer Lexington immediately. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Felony Theft Law: Grand Larceny
In Virginia, theft becomes a felony—specifically grand larceny—when the value of the stolen goods or services is $1,000 or more. This is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-95. The statute covers a wide range of property, including money, goods, and other items of value. The prosecution must prove you intentionally took property belonging to another without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. The value threshold is critical; if the Commonwealth cannot prove the value meets or exceeds $1,000, the charge may be reduced to petit larceny, a misdemeanor. A felony theft lawyer Lexington can challenge the evidence on this precise point.
Penalties for Felony Theft in Lexington
In Lexington, felony theft (grand larceny) is a felony punishable by 1 to 20 years in state prison, or at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail 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 at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | No direct suspension | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Grand Larceny from a Person | Felony | 2 – 20 years (mandatory minimum 2 years) | Up to $2,500 | No direct suspension | Enhanced penalties for theft directly from a victim’s body. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Defense Strategy for a Felony Stealing Charge in Lexington
The procedural path for a felony theft case in Lexington starts at the Lexington General District Court for a preliminary hearing, where a judge determines if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court for a jury trial. Key local steps include:
- Arraignment & Bond Hearing: Your first court appearance at Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street) to hear the formal charge and potentially set bond conditions.
- Preliminary Hearing: The Commonwealth presents evidence to show probable cause for the felony. Your attorney can cross-examine witnesses and argue for a reduction or dismissal.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If bound over, the case proceeds to Lexington Circuit Court for a formal arraignment on the felony indictment.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your lawyer files motions to suppress evidence, challenges the valuation, and negotiates with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: The case proceeds to a jury trial or, if in your best interest, a negotiated plea agreement for a reduced charge is finalized.
Why Choose Our Lexington Felony Theft Defense Team
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand that a felony theft accusation can upend your life, and we build defenses focused on challenging the prosecution’s evidence, especially the critical valuation element that separates a misdemeanor from a felony.
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
Our team also includes Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting, which provides a distinct advantage in cases involving complex financial evidence and valuation disputes common in felony theft cases.
Case Results in Virginia Courts
While specific Lexington results are protected by confidentiality, our Virginia defense team has a proven track record. In one representative case in Fairfax County General District Court, a felony charge of Obtaining Money by False Pretenses (Va. Code § 18.2-178) was resolved with a reduction to a misdemeanor and a fully suspended sentence.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Felony Theft Defense Lawyer Near Lexington, VA
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at the Lexington courts. We are accessible via I-64 and I-81 and serve the Lexington community, including areas near Virginia Military Institute and Washington and Lee University.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Felony Theft Lawyer Lexington FAQ
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Lexington, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Lexington 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 Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450). 14 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Lexington, 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 Lexington Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 14 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate).
How does bail work in Lexington, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Lexington. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Lexington General District Court. Bond amount set by magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%); public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony).
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Lexington?
Lexington General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Lexington 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. Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450) is the GDC location.
What should I look for in a grand larceny defense lawyer Lexington?
Look for a grand larceny defense lawyer Lexington with specific experience in Virginia theft statutes and local Lexington court procedures. They should have a track record of challenging property valuations and intent evidence. A lawyer familiar with both Lexington General District and Circuit Courts is essential for handling the preliminary hearing and potential jury trial process effectively.
If you are facing a felony stealing charge lawyer Lexington can help protect your future. Virginia criminal defense lawyers at our firm are ready to assist. For related legal issues in the area, consider a Lexington DUI lawyer or a Lexington family law attorney.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.