Grand Larceny Lawyer in Goochland County, Virginia — What Are Your Defense Options?
Grand larceny in Goochland County is a felony theft charge under Va. Code § 18.2-95 for stealing property valued at $1,000 or more, punishable by 1 to 20 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for this serious charge. If you are facing a grand theft charge in Goochland County, contact a grand larceny lawyer Goochland County immediately. 24/7 consultations: (888) 437-7747.
Virginia Grand Larceny Law & Penalties
In Virginia, grand larceny is defined by statute as the theft of money, goods, or chattels valued at $1,000 or more. This is distinct from petit larceny (theft under $1,000), which is a misdemeanor. The primary statute is Va. Code § 18.2-95. The law also specifies grand larceny for theft of certain items regardless of value, such as firearms.
Last verified: April 2026 | Goochland County General District Court & Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience handling serious theft cases. A conviction for this felony creates a permanent criminal record, severely impacting employment, housing, and professional licensing.
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-95 (official Virginia General Assembly) – Defines grand larceny.
- Goochland County Courts – Official website for Goochland County General District and Circuit Courts.
Facing a Grand Larceny Charge in Goochland County
Goochland County General District Court handles the preliminary hearing for felony grand larceny charges. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Goochland County prosecutes these cases. If the case proceeds, it will be bound over to Goochland County Circuit Court for a potential jury trial. Prosecutors often rely on surveillance footage, witness statements, and possession of stolen property as evidence.
- Arraignment & Bond Hearing: Your first court date at Goochland County General District Court (2938 River Road West). The judge will formally read the charge and address bond conditions.
- Preliminary Hearing: The court determines if there is probable cause to believe you committed a felony. Your attorney can cross-examine the prosecution’s witnesses.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If bound over, you will be arraigned again in Goochland County Circuit Court and enter a plea.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will review all evidence, file motions to suppress evidence if improperly obtained, and challenge the valuation of the stolen property.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Most cases are resolved through negotiation. If no agreement is reached, you have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows Virginia’s discretionary sentencing guidelines, which consider criminal history and the specifics of the offense.
Potential Penalties for Grand Larceny in Virginia
In Goochland County, grand larceny is a felony punishable by 1 to 20 years in 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 | Record Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Larceny (Value $1,000+) | Felony (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | 1 – 20 years (or up to 12 months at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | Permanent felony record | Restitution, loss of voting rights, firearm rights, professional licenses |
| Grand Larceny of a Firearm | Felony (Va. Code § 18.2-108.1) | Mandatory minimum 2 years | Court discretion | Permanent felony record | Same as above, plus enhanced penalties |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Grand Larceny Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm-wide experience spans over 120 combined years, with a documented record of 4,739+ case results and a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our approach to a grand theft charge lawyer Goochland County relies on detailed case analysis and strategic defense planning.
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 includes former prosecutor Kristen Fisher, whose insight into how the Commonwealth builds its cases is invaluable for a felony theft defense lawyer Goochland County. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, brings decades of strategic leadership in complex criminal defense.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
In Goochland County, our firm has documented results handling criminal matters. We focus on achieving the best possible outcome, which can include case dismissal, reduction of charges, or favorable plea agreements.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Goochland County Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
Phones 24/7/365; Office by appointment.
By appointment only.
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Goochland County courts (2938 River Road West), accessible via I-64 and Route 6. If you need a grand larceny lawyer near Goochland, we provide 24/7 phone consultations. We serve the communities of Goochland, Crozier, and Oilville. Meetings are by appointment only.
Grand Larceny Defense FAQs for Goochland County
What is the difference between grand larceny and petit larceny in Virginia?
The key difference is the value of the stolen property. Petit larceny is a misdemeanor for theft under $1,000. Grand larceny is a felony for theft of $1,000 or more, or for theft of specific items like firearms regardless of value.
Can a grand larceny charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends. Prosecutors may agree to reduce the charge if the evidence of value is questionable, if it is a first offense, or through a first offender program. An experienced felony theft defense lawyer Goochland County can negotiate for a reduction to avoid a felony conviction.
What are the defenses to a grand larceny charge?
Common defenses include mistaken identity, lack of intent to steal (claim of right), valuation of property below the $1,000 threshold, unlawful search and seizure, or insufficient evidence. A grand larceny lawyer Goochland County will investigate all possible defenses.
Do I need a lawyer for a grand larceny charge in Goochland County?
Yes. Grand larceny is a serious felony with potential prison time. The Commonwealth’s Attorney will prosecute the case. A skilled grand theft charge lawyer Goochland County is essential to protect your rights, challenge evidence, and work toward the best resolution.
What happens at a preliminary hearing for grand larceny?
The preliminary hearing is held in Goochland County General District Court. The prosecutor must show probable cause that a felony was committed and that you likely committed it. Your attorney can cross-examine witnesses and argue for dismissal if the evidence is insufficient.
Related Pages: For other legal matters in Goochland County, see our pages on DUI defense and family law. For more on Virginia theft laws, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub. We also serve neighboring areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.