Petit Larceny Lawyer Fauquier County, VA
You were at a shop in Warrenton, picking up a few items. As you left, a loss prevention officer stopped you and accused you of taking something without paying. The value was small—well under $1,000—but a theft charge is a theft charge. A petit larceny arrest in Fauquier County means a court date at the Fauquier County General District Court on Court Street. A conviction can bring up to twelve months in jail and a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles petit larceny defense in Fauquier County. Call (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.
What Petit Larceny Means in Fauquier County
Petit larceny under Virginia Code § 18.2-96 covers theft of property valued at less than $1,000. It is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to twelve months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. In Fauquier County, misdemeanor theft cases are heard in the General District Court at 6 Court Street, Warrenton, Virginia 20186. The Fauquier County Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these charges.
Even though the dollar amount may be low, a petit larceny conviction has lasting consequences. Employers, professional licensing boards, and landlords often ask about criminal records. Virginia also makes expungement available for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi but a conviction cannot be erased through regular expungement. The court process includes arraignment, a bond determination by a magistrate, and trial. First-offender programs may allow a deferred disposition and ultimate dismissal for eligible defendants.
Fauquier County General District Court is currently presided over by Hon. Lorrie Ann Sinclair Taylor. Court hours: Mon-Fri 8:00AM-4:00PM. Counsel appearing on criminal matters should plan filings accordingly.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Petit Larceny Cases
Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel review the evidence the prosecution must prove—that the item was taken with intent to permanently deprive the owner, and that the value is under $1,000. They examine store surveillance, witness statements, and police reports. Because petit larceny is a misdemeanor, the case is heard in the General District Court unless appealed. If the prosecution’s case has weaknesses, the attorneys work to negotiate a reduced charge or a dismissal. When the facts support it, they may pursue a first-offender program that can result in the charge being dismissed after successful completion of conditions.
The approach is thorough and detail-oriented. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel appear in Fauquier County courts to represent clients at all stages—from arraignment through trial or negotiated resolution. They understand the local procedures and how the court calendar operates. Each case is built on its own facts, and the attorneys work toward the trusted achievable outcome. Results may vary.
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 founded the firm in 1997. He is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris has testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).
Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience and have achieved 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary. The team includes attorneys with backgrounds as a former Virginia State Trooper and a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney—each brings insight into how law enforcement and prosecution build cases. For petit larceny matters in Fauquier County, the firm draws on this collective experience to construct a defense suited to each client’s situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for petit larceny in Fauquier County?
Petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor with up to twelve months in jail and a $2,500 fine. The charge applies when the stolen property is worth less than under Va. Code § 18.2-96. Misdemeanor cases are heard in the Fauquier County General District Court. A conviction also creates a permanent criminal record, though in some instances a first-offender program may allow deferred disposition and eventual dismissal if all conditions are met.
Can petit larceny charges be expunged in Fauquier County?
Yes, if your case ends in an acquittal, nolle prosequi, or dismissal, you may petition for expungement. A conviction for petit larceny generally cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in the Fauquier County Circuit Court. An experienced attorney can help determine eligibility and guide you through the process.
How does bail work after a petit larceny arrest in Fauquier County?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest; personal recognizance is often granted for first-offense misdemeanors. If the magistrate requires a secured bond, a bail bondsman’s fee is typically about ten percent of the bond amount. Bond decisions can be appealed to the General District Court. Contact an attorney promptly to discuss bond review options.
What should I do if I am facing petit larceny charges in Fauquier County?
Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately and do not discuss the case with anyone else. Preserve any receipts, store records, and witness contact information. An attorney can evaluate the evidence, advise you on court dates, and develop a defense strategy. For a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
How does a lawyer defend against a petit larceny charge?
Defense strategies may include challenging the evidence of intent, questioning the value of the property, or exploring procedural errors. Because the Commonwealth must prove all elements beyond a reasonable doubt, a thorough review of the store’s records, video, and witness statements can expose weaknesses. The firm works to negotiate reduced charges or dismissal when the evidence supports it.
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Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) · Fauquier County General District Court · Virginia Courts
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Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.