Petit Larceny Lawyer Loudoun County, VA

Under Virginia Code § 18.2‑96, petit larceny is defined as the unlawful taking of money or property valued at less than $1,000. A conviction for petit larceny in Loudoun County is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. The case is heard at the Loudoun County General District Court, 18 East Market Street, Leesburg. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. defends clients facing petit larceny charges in Loudoun County and throughout Northern Virginia. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor and the firm’s Owner and Founder, has practiced criminal defense since 1997. To discuss your situation, contact the firm at (888) 437‑7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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What a Petit Larceny Charge Means in Loudoun County

A petit larceny charge in Loudoun County is prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney in the General District Court unless the defendant demands a jury trial, in which case the matter moves to the Loudoun County Circuit Court. The firm’s Ashburn location represents clients at both venues. Because a petit larceny conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, professional licensing, and housing, early engagement with defense counsel is critical. The court has a first‑offender program under Va. Code § 19.2‑303.2 that may allow dismissal upon successful completion of probation.

Petit larceny in Virginia is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.

Source: Va. Code § 18.2‑96. Virginia Code § 18.2‑96

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.

The value of the property determines whether the charge is petit or grand larceny. Property worth $1,000 or more is grand larceny, a felony. In Loudoun County, the Commonwealth’s Attorney may agree to amend a charge to a lesser offense as part of a plea agreement under Rule 3A:8 of the Rules of the Supreme Court of Virginia. The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys are experienced in negotiating with prosecutors to seek charge reductions or dismissals.

In Loudoun County, the firm has 42 documented criminal case results, with 35 dismissed or not guilty, 5 reduced or amended, and 2 other favorable outcomes. Results may vary. The local court, presided over by Hon. Lorrie Ann Sinclair Taylor, is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Loudoun County General District Court is currently presided over by Hon. Lorrie Ann Sinclair Taylor. Court hours: Mon‑Fri 8:00 AM‑4:00 PM. Counsel appearing on criminal matters should plan filings accordingly.

How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Petit Larceny Cases

When a client contacts Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. about a petit larceny charge in Loudoun County, the attorney reviews the incident report, witness statements, and any surveillance footage. The defense examines whether law enforcement had probable cause to stop or detain the person, whether the value of the allegedly stolen property was accurately assessed, and whether the accused had a lawful right to the property. Many petit larceny cases turn on whether the evidence proves the required intent to permanently deprive the owner of the property.

The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys have backgrounds that include former Virginia State Trooper and former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney experience. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, founded the firm in 1997 and has handled criminal matters across Virginia for decades. The team works to achieve favorable outcomes by seeking dismissal, negotiation of a reduced charge, or—if necessary—vigorous trial defense. Because Virginia permits plea bargaining under Rule 3A:8, an experienced attorney can often negotiate an amendment to a non‑larceny offense that avoids a theft conviction on the record.

About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has been a criminal defense lawyer since 1997. He is a former prosecutor and testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience in criminal defense, including backgrounds in law enforcement and prosecution. The firm is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York.

Clients in Loudoun County are served from the firm’s Ashburn location. The Ashburn location is by appointment only; call (888) 437‑7747 to schedule a consultation. The firm’s phones are answered 24 hours a day. Results may vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the penalty for petit larceny in Virginia?

Petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. The actual sentence depends on the defendant’s criminal history and the specific facts. A conviction also creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses. An experienced attorney may be able to negotiate a reduction to a non‑larceny offense or obtain a dismissal through a first‑offender program.

How does a Virginia lawyer defend against petit larceny charges?

A defense lawyer challenges the evidence, examines whether the police had probable cause, and negotiates with the prosecutor to reduce or dismiss the charge. Common defenses include lack of intent to permanently deprive, claim of right, mistaken identity, or that the property’s value was overstated. The attorney may also seek admission into a first‑offender program that results in dismissal upon completion.

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

The difference is the value of the property taken: under $1,000 is petit larceny (a misdemeanor), while $1,000 or more is grand larceny (a felony). Petit larceny is handled in the General District Court unless the defendant requests a jury trial, whereas grand larceny is typically a felony that proceeds in the Circuit Court.

Can a petit larceny charge be expunged in Virginia?

Yes, if the charge results in an acquittal, nolle prosequi, or dismissal, a petition for expungement may be filed under Va. Code § 19.2‑392.2. Convictions generally cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in the Loudoun County Circuit Court. An attorney can evaluate whether the disposition qualifies and guide the petitioner through the process.

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

Yes; even a misdemeanor petit larceny conviction creates a permanent criminal record and can lead to jail time, so retaining an experienced criminal defense lawyer is strongly recommended. A lawyer can appear in court on the client’s behalf, negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, and present mitigating factors. Self‑representation risks accepting a conviction that could have been avoided.

What is the first‑offender program for petit larceny in Virginia?

Under Va. Code § 19.2‑303.2, a first‑time misdemeanor petit larceny offender may be placed on probation and, upon successful completion, have the charge dismissed. The court may impose conditions such as community service, restitution, and a period of good behavior. This program avoids a conviction if all terms are met. An attorney can determine eligibility and advocate for placement.

How long does a petit larceny case take in Loudoun County?

The timeline varies; a typical misdemeanor trial in the General District Court may be scheduled within several weeks of the arraignment, but the total duration depends on court scheduling and any continuances. If the case is appealed to the Circuit Court or a jury trial is demanded, additional time is required. Early retention of counsel can help move the matter efficiently.

What should I do if I am accused of petit larceny in Loudoun County?

If you are accused of petit larceny, remain silent and ask to speak with an attorney immediately. Do not discuss the facts with police or store security. Contact a criminal defense lawyer who practices in Loudoun County. An attorney can advise on whether to provide a statement and can begin investigating the evidence.

Can a petit larceny charge be reduced to a non‑larceny offense?

Yes, in many cases the Commonwealth’s Attorney may agree to amend a petit larceny charge to a non‑larceny offense, such as trespassing or disorderly conduct, as part of a plea agreement. This can avoid a theft conviction on the record. The likelihood of an amendment depends on the facts, the defendant’s history, and the quality of the defense presentation.

How does the value of the property affect a petit larceny charge?

If the property is valued at less than $1,000, the offense is petit larceny, a misdemeanor; if valued at $1,000 or more, it is grand larceny, a felony. The prosecution must prove the value beyond a reasonable doubt. Disputing the valuation is a common defense tactic that can keep a case in the misdemeanor category.

For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.

Official resources: Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) | Loudoun County General District Court | Virginia Judicial System

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Results may vary.

Last reviewed: July 2026

Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.