Petit Larceny Lawyer Foggy Bottom, DC
A petit larceny charge—known as second‑degree theft in the District of Columbia—can upend your life.
If you are facing a theft accusation in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood, the prosecution is handled by
the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, not a local district attorney.
Cases are heard at the DC Superior Court Criminal Division, 500 Indiana Avenue NW, just across the
National Mall from Foggy Bottom. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has served clients in the District for
decades, with Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel appearing in DC Superior Court on theft matters ranging
from shoplifting to unauthorized use of property. Theft in the second degree is a misdemeanor
that can carry jail time and a permanent record—but many cases are resolved favorably with the right
defense. To discuss your situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Petit Larceny Means in Foggy Bottom, DC
In Washington, D.C., what other states call “petit larceny” is prosecuted as second‑degree theft
under D.C. Code Title 22. The offense covers the unauthorized taking of property or services valued
at less than $1,000. A conviction for second‑degree theft is a misdemeanor, but it still exposes a
person to incarceration, fines, and a lasting criminal record that can affect employment, housing,
and security clearances—matters of particular concern in the Foggy Bottom area, where many residents
work for the government, international organizations, or contractors.
The DC Superior Court Criminal Division is the sole forum for local criminal charges. Judges at
500 Indiana Avenue NW hear arraignments, status conferences, and trials. Because DC is a federal
territory, the U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecutes local offenses—a structure unique among American
cities. The Metropolitan Police Department makes arrests, and the Pretrial Services Agency, a
federal agency, conducts risk assessments instead of using cash bail. For someone released pending
trial, the conditions set by the court or Pretrial Services can include reporting requirements,
stay‑away orders, or travel restrictions.
Second-degree theft in the District of Columbia is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 180 days in jail.
Source: D.C. Code Title 22 (Criminal Offenses and Penalties). D.C. Code Title 22
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York.
Foggy Bottom sits between the White House and Georgetown, home to George Washington University,
the State Department, and the Kennedy Center. A theft arrest anywhere in this neighborhood—whether
at a campus bookstore, a Metro station, or a Foggy Bottom retail location—will be processed through
the same superior court system. The proximity of the Arlington, Virginia location of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Means that clients from Foggy Bottom can easily meet with counsel by appointment.
The Arlington location, at 1655 Fort Myer Drive, Suite 700, is a short drive across the Potomac,
and Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel routinely appear at the courthouse on Indiana Avenue.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Petit Larceny Cases
Every theft case begins with a thorough review of the prosecution’s evidence: surveillance footage,
witness statements, store records, and police reports. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, and his Of
Counsel examine whether the government can prove every element of the offense beyond a reasonable
doubt—including the value of the property and the identity of the accused. In DC Superior Court,
the U.S. Attorney’s Office must establish that the defendant took property of another without
consent and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner. Procedural missteps, such as an
unlawful stop or a suggestive identification, can lead to suppression of evidence or dismissal.
Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel also explore alternatives that avoid a conviction. Depending on the
facts, the defense may negotiate with the prosecutor for a deferred prosecution agreement,
community service in lieu of prosecution, or a dismissal after a period of good behavior.
If the case goes to trial, the team draws on over 120 years of combined legal experience and over 4,739 documented firm-wide results to
present a defense. Results may vary. Every step is taken with an eye toward protecting the client’s record and
future.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced since 1997.
He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York.
His background as a former prosecutor gives him insight into how the U.S. Attorney’s Office
builds and presents criminal cases. Mr. Sris 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 deep criminal defense experience, including familiarity with the procedures and
personalities of DC Superior Court. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work collaboratively on every
matter, ensuring that clients receive the benefit of the team’s collective knowledge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a petit larceny charge a misdemeanor in Washington, D.C.?
Yes, theft of property valued under $1,000 is second‑degree theft, a misdemeanor in the District of Columbia.
The offense is punishable by up to 180 days in jail, but the court has discretion to impose
probation, community service, or other conditions. Many first‑offense cases are resolved without
incarceration. An experienced attorney can present mitigating circumstances and work toward a
favorable resolution.
Will I have to pay bail for a petit larceny arrest in DC?
DC does not use cash bail for most offenses; instead, the Pretrial Services Agency assesses risk and recommends release conditions.
A defendant is typically released pending trial unless the government can show a specific risk
of flight or danger. The recommendations can include supervision, drug testing, or stay‑away orders.
Counsel can advocate for the least restrictive conditions possible at the initial appearance.
Can a second‑degree theft conviction be sealed in DC?
Yes, DC law allows record sealing for certain theft convictions after a waiting period, under D.C. Code § 16‑803.
Acquittals and dismissals are eligible immediately. For qualifying convictions, a petition must be
filed at DC Superior Court. Marijuana‑related offenses have broader sealing availability.
An attorney can advise whether your specific charge is eligible and guide you through the process.
Do I need a lawyer for a petit larceny charge in Foggy Bottom?
You are not legally required to hire an attorney, but having experienced counsel can significantly affect the outcome of your case.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecutes actively, and even a misdemeanor conviction creates
a public record that can harm employment and professional licenses. A lawyer can challenge the
evidence, negotiate alternatives to conviction, and protect your rights throughout the proceeding.
What should I do immediately after a theft arrest in DC?
Remain silent beyond identifying yourself, and request that an attorney be present before answering any questions.
Do not discuss the facts with police officers or store security personnel. Preserve any receipts,
messages, or photographs that might be relevant. Then contact a criminal defense attorney as soon
as possible—early involvement can be critical to the direction of the case.
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D.C. Code Title 22 ·
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Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. | (888) 437‑7747 | By appointment only.
Arlington Location: 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room 719, Arlington, VA 22209
Founded 1997. Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder. Admitted in Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York.
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.