Grand Larceny Lawyer Virginia Beach — What Are Your Defense Options?
Grand larceny in Virginia Beach is a felony theft charge under Va. Code § 18.2-95, punishable by 1 to 20 years in prison. Theft of property valued at $1,000 or more crosses the threshold from petit to grand larceny. If you are charged, you need a Grand Larceny Lawyer Virginia Beach immediately. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Virginia Grand Larceny Law & Penalties
Grand larceny is defined under Virginia Code § 18.2-95. The statute states that any person who commits simple larceny not from the person of another of goods and chattels of the value of $1,000 or more is guilty of grand larceny, punishable by imprisonment in a state correctional facility for not less than one nor more than twenty years or, in the discretion of the jury or court trying the case without a jury, confinement in jail for a period not exceeding twelve months or a fine not to exceed $2,500, either or both.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
This means the charge is a felony, with a potential state prison sentence. The $1,000 valuation is critical; it includes the aggregate value of all goods taken in a common scheme. Prosecutors in Virginia Beach aggressively pursue these charges. A skilled Grand Larceny Lawyer Virginia Beach can challenge the valuation, intent, or identity evidence.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, review Va. Code § 18.2-95 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures are handled at the Virginia Beach General District Court for preliminary hearings and the Virginia Beach Circuit Court for felony trials.
Virginia Beach Court Process for Grand Larceny
In Virginia Beach, a grand larceny case begins with an arrest or summons. The case starts in Virginia Beach General District Court for a preliminary hearing, where the Commonwealth must show probable cause. If bound over, the case proceeds to Virginia Beach Circuit Court for a jury trial. The Commonwealth’s Attorney must prove you intentionally took property belonging to another, valued at $1,000 or more, with the intent to permanently deprive the owner.
- Arrest/Summons: You will be arrested or receive a summons to appear in Virginia Beach General District Court.
- Preliminary Hearing: A hearing is held at 2425 Nimmo Parkway to determine if there is probable cause for a felony charge.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If bound over, you will be arraigned in Virginia Beach Circuit Court and enter a plea.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will review evidence, file motions to suppress, and negotiate with the prosecutor.
- Trial or Plea: The case proceeds to a jury trial or is resolved through a negotiated plea agreement.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows, with arguments for alternatives to incarceration.
Potential Penalties for Grand Larceny in Virginia
In Virginia Beach, grand larceny is a felony carrying 1 to 20 years in prison, though a jury can reduce it to a misdemeanor with up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Larceny (Value ≥ $1,000) | Felony | 1 – 20 years (state prison) * | Up to $2,500 ** | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, firearm rights, employment difficulties. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
* Or, in the discretion of the jury or judge, confinement in jail for not more than 12 months.
** If reduced to misdemeanor sentencing.
Why Choose Our Virginia Beach Grand Larceny Defense Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes in theft cases by challenging evidence, negotiating reductions, and advocating at trial. We understand the severe impact a felony theft conviction can have on your future.
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 & Defense Approach
Our approach to defending a grand theft charge in Virginia Beach involves immediate investigation. We scrutinize the prosecution’s evidence, particularly the valuation of the stolen property and the identification of the accused. In many cases, the value alleged can be contested to seek a reduction to a misdemeanor petit larceny charge. We also explore procedural defenses and diversion programs. Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in theft cases. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our team includes experienced litigators like Mr. Sris, whose background as a former prosecutor provides critical insight into how the Commonwealth builds its case. This experience is invaluable for a grand theft charge lawyer Virginia Beach.
Grand Larceny Defense Lawyer Near Virginia Beach
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at the Virginia Beach courts. We are accessible via I-64 and I-264. We serve the communities of Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana.
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
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Grand Larceny Defense FAQs for Virginia Beach
What is the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny in Virginia?
The key difference is the value of the stolen property. Petit larceny involves property valued under $1,000 and is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Grand larceny involves property valued at $1,000 or more and is a felony. The threshold is strict, making valuation a common defense point for a Grand Larceny Lawyer Virginia Beach.
Can a grand larceny felony be reduced to a misdemeanor in Virginia Beach?
Yes, it is possible. Under Va. Code § 18.2-95, the jury (or judge in a bench trial) has the discretion to find a defendant guilty of grand larceny but impose a misdemeanor sentence—up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A skilled felony theft defense lawyer Virginia Beach can argue for this outcome based on the circumstances, your background, and challenges to the evidence.
What are common defenses to a grand larceny charge?
Common defenses include challenging the property’s valuation, arguing a lack of intent to steal (claim of right or mistake), mistaken identity, insufficient evidence, and unlawful search and seizure. An attorney will examine all evidence, including security footage and witness statements, to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Do I need a lawyer for a grand larceny charge in Virginia Beach?
Yes. Grand larceny is a serious felony with potential prison time. The Virginia Beach Commonwealth’s Attorney vigorously prosecutes these cases. A lawyer is essential to protect your rights, challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and represent you at trial in Virginia Beach Circuit Court. Do not face this charge without counsel.
What happens at a preliminary hearing for grand larceny?
The preliminary hearing is held in Virginia Beach General District Court. The prosecutor must show probable cause that a felony was committed and that you likely committed it. It is not a trial, but your attorney can cross-examine witnesses and argue to have the charge dismissed or reduced. If probable cause is found, the case is sent to Circuit Court.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. If you are in a neighboring area, consider our Henrico County criminal defense lawyer page. For related legal issues in Virginia Beach, see our Virginia Beach DUI lawyer services.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.