Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Arlington County, VA

Under Virginia Code § 18.2-96, taking property valued at less than $1,000 constitutes petit larceny, a Class 1 misdemeanor that can expose a person to jail time, fines, and a lasting criminal record. In Arlington County, misdemeanor petit larceny charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney in the Arlington County General District Court, located at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd, Suite 2400, Arlington, VA 22201. Because Virginia law treats even a single conviction seriously—potentially affecting employment, housing, and professional licensing—having experienced counsel who knows both the statute and the local courtroom is critical. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Concentrates its practice on defending individuals facing criminal charges in Arlington County and throughout Virginia. For a consultation, call (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

What Petit Larceny Defense Means in Arlington County

Arlington County Criminal matters are filed in the county’s two principal courts. Misdemeanor charges—including petit larceny under the $1,000 threshold—start in the General District Court at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd. That court conducts arraignments, bench trials, and preliminary hearings for felonies. If a theft is charged as grand larceny because the value allegedly meets or exceeds $1,000, the case moves to the Arlington County Circuit Court, which handles jury trials and appeals from the lower court.

The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Arlington County prosecutes larceny cases, and under Virginia Supreme Court Rule 3A:8, the defense may negotiate with the prosecutor to seek a charge amendment or dismissal. A petit larceny conviction leaves a permanent adult criminal record, and while Virginia law allows expungement of charges that are dismissed, acquitted, or nolle prosequi under § 19.2-392.2, convictions are generally not expungeable. For many first-time offenders, deferred-disposition programs under § 19.2-303.2 may offer a path to eventual dismissal. Our firm draws on extensive knowledge of how these options are applied in Arlington County courtrooms.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Petit Larceny Defense Cases

When Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Undertakes a petit larceny defense in Arlington County, the first step is a close review of how the charge arose—whether from a store security stop, a merchant complaint, or an inventory discrepancy. The firm examines whether law enforcement and store personnel followed proper procedures and whether the value of the allegedly taken property can be challenged. In many instances, negotiating with the Arlington County Commonwealth’s Attorney can result in the charge being amended to a lesser offense or dismissed outright.

If the case cannot be resolved before trial, the firm is prepared to litigate. The defense may contest the evidence, challenge witness credibility, or present mitigating facts to the court. Because the Arlington County General District Court does not hold jury trials for misdemeanors, the case will be decided by a judge, making a thorough, well-organized presentation especially important. Throughout the process, the firm’s goal is to protect the client’s record, freedom, and future options. Results may vary. In any particular matter.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who has practiced law since 1997. His background provides insight into how the Commonwealth builds a larceny case, an understanding that directly informs the firm’s defense strategy. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York.

Mr. Sris is joined by a team of experienced Of Counsel who contribute deep criminal-defense knowledge. The Of Counsel attorneys include former law enforcement professionals whose service backgrounds give the firm practical familiarity with police investigative techniques and evidence-gathering standards. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience to the defense of petit larceny and other criminal charges in Arlington County. For a consultation, call (888) 437-7747.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the penalty for petit larceny in Virginia?

Petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying a maximum sentence of 12 months in jail and a fine. Because it is a crime of moral turpitude, a conviction can affect employment applications, professional licenses, and immigration status. The court also has discretion to impose probation, community service, and restitution. First-offender programs may allow a defendant to earn a dismissal, but eligibility depends on the facts and the prior record.

Can petit larceny charges be dismissed in Arlington County?

Yes, petit larceny charges can be dismissed if the evidence is insufficient, the prosecutor agrees to a nolle prosequi, or the defendant successfully completes a deferred-disposition program under § 19.2-303.2. In Arlington County, the Commonwealth’s Attorney has authority to drop or amend charges when the circumstances warrant it. An experienced defense attorney can identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case—such as unreliable identification, lack of intent, or valuation disputes—that may lead to a favorable resolution before trial.

How does an attorney defend against a shoplifting petit larceny charge?

A defense to a shoplifting petit larceny charge may challenge the store’s loss-prevention procedures, the identification of the accused, or the alleged value of the merchandise. Merchants sometimes rely on video footage, witness statements, or electronic inventory records that are incomplete or inaccurate. The attorney examines whether the store’s stop and detention complied with Virginia law, whether any statements were lawfully obtained, and whether the Commonwealth can prove each element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt.

Will a petit larceny conviction stay on my record in Virginia?

Yes, a petit larceny conviction in Virginia remains on a person’s criminal record permanently, because Virginia law does not allow expungement of convictions except in narrow circumstances. Only dismissals, acquittals, and nolle prosequi dispositions are eligible for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. This makes it especially important to seek a charge reduction or dismissal early, because a conviction can appear on background checks for the rest of the person’s life. Results may vary. Depending on the specific facts.

Do I need a lawyer for a petit larceny charge in Arlington County?

You are not legally required to hire a lawyer, but representing yourself on a petit larceny charge in Arlington County General District Court places you at a serious disadvantage. The Commonwealth’s Attorney is an experienced litigator, and the procedural rules, rules of evidence, and sentencing guidelines are complex. An attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor, present mitigating evidence, and protect your rights throughout the proceeding. For a consultation, call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

What is the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny in Virginia?

In Virginia, theft of property valued under $1,000 is petit larceny (Class 1 misdemeanor), while theft of $1,000 or more or theft of a firearm regardless of value is grand larceny (a felony). Grand larceny is punishable by one to twenty years in prison, or at the jury’s discretion up to 12 months in jail. Because the value threshold is central to the charge, some cases involve dispute over the actual fair market value of the property; an attorney may be able to argue that the value is lower, reducing a felony to a misdemeanor.

Fairfax County criminal defense |
Prince William County criminal lawyer |
Loudoun County criminal defense |
Stafford County criminal lawyer

Virginia Code Title 18.2 – Crimes and Offenses |
Arlington County General District Court |
Virginia Judicial System

Last reviewed: July 2026

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.