Petit Larceny Lawyer York County — Defending Theft Under $1,000 Charges
Petit larceny in York County is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-96, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for theft charges under $1,000. A petit larceny lawyer York County can challenge evidence and seek dismissal or reduction. Contact us 24/7 at (888) 437-7747.
Virginia Petit Larceny Law
Petit larceny is defined as the theft of goods or services valued at less than $1,000. It is distinguished from grand larceny, which involves property valued at $1,000 or more and is a felony. The statute is specific and requires the prosecution to prove you intentionally took property belonging to another without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it.
Last verified: April 2026 | York County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official Virginia statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-96 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the York County General District Court website.
Defending a Petit Larceny Charge in York County
In York County General District Court, prosecutors must prove every element of petit larceny beyond a reasonable doubt. A common defense involves challenging the identification of the accused or the value of the property. For first-time offenders, Virginia law may allow for a first offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, which can lead to dismissal upon successful completion.
- Receive a summons or warrant for petit larceny.
- Attend your arraignment at York County General District Court (300 Ballard Street).
- Your attorney will review evidence, including surveillance footage and witness statements.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction, dismissal, or diversion program.
- Prepare for trial if a favorable plea agreement cannot be reached.
- If convicted, seek an appeal to the York County Circuit Court for a new trial.
Penalties for Petit Larceny in York County
In York County, petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Value < $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record; impacts employment, housing, professional licenses |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. We have documented case results across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C. Our approach is based on detailed case analysis and strong courtroom advocacy.
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
Our firm has a record of achieving favorable outcomes in theft cases. For example, we have secured dismissals and reductions to nolle prosequi in petit larceny cases in Virginia courts. In one instance, a petit larceny charge under Va. Code § 18.2-96 was dismissed at the General District Court level.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our team, including former prosecutor Kristen Fisher, uses this experience to defend clients in York County.
Contact Our York County Petit Larceny Defense Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients in York County. We are accessible via I-64 and Route 17. We provide legal support for residents in Yorktown, Grafton, Tabb, and Seaford.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for petit larceny in York County, Virginia?
Up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Petit larceny (theft under $1,000) is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-96. Cases are heard at York County General District Court.
Can a petit larceny charge be expunged in Virginia?
It depends. Expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2 is generally available if the charge results in an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi. A conviction for petit larceny typically cannot be expunged, making a strong defense critical.
Do I need a misdemeanor theft defense lawyer York County for a shoplifting charge?
Yes. Even a first-time shoplifting charge can result in jail time and a permanent record. A misdemeanor theft defense lawyer York County can negotiate for diversion programs or reduced charges that protect your future.
What should I look for in a shoplifting charge lawyer York County?
Look for a lawyer with specific experience in Virginia theft laws and local York County court procedures. Experience with diversion programs and a track record of favorable negotiations or trial outcomes are important factors to consider for your defense.
Is a first-time petit larceny offense a felony?
No. Petit larceny is a misdemeanor. However, prior convictions or stealing certain items (like firearms) can elevate the charge. A prior larceny conviction can make a subsequent petit larceny charge a felony under Va. Code § 18.2-104.
Related Legal Information
If you need a Virginia criminal defense lawyer, visit our state hub. For defense in nearby areas, see our pages for Henrico County and Chesterfield County. For other legal needs in York County, we also handle DUI cases and family law matters.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.