Felony Theft Lawyer Columbia Heights, DC

A felony theft charge in the District of Columbia carries serious consequences, including the possibility of incarceration, a permanent criminal record, and lasting effects on employment, housing, and professional licensing. If you are facing a theft allegation in Columbia Heights, the prosecution will be handled by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, not a local district attorney—a federal-local hybrid that makes DC criminal defense uniquely demanding. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997, serves Columbia Heights and the greater Washington, D.C. Area from our Arlington Location. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel appear regularly at DC Superior Court, 500 Indiana Avenue NW, defending clients against charges ranging from petit larceny to first-degree theft. Contact our firm at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation about your case. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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What Felony Theft Means in Columbia Heights

In the District of Columbia, theft becomes a felony when the value of the property taken exceeds $1,000, or when the offense involves a firearm, a vehicle, or stolen property taken directly from another person. First-degree theft (D.C. Code Title 22) may be prosecuted as a felony carrying up to ten years of imprisonment; second-degree theft, generally involving property valued at less than $1,000, is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 180 days. Because Columbia Heights lies within the boundaries of Washington, D.C., all criminal cases—including felony theft—are heard at DC Superior Court, located at 500 Indiana Avenue NW, just off Judiciary Square.

The District uses the Pretrial Services Agency, a federal body, rather than a cash-bail system. After arrest, a PSA officer conducts a risk assessment and makes a release recommendation to the court. Many defendants are released on personal recognizance with conditions such as check-ins or drug testing, but a judge may impose more restrictive measures if the alleged theft is substantial or the defendant has a prior record. Columbia Heights residents charged with felony theft should understand that the U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecutes the case, and the court process moves through an initial appearance, a status hearing, and, if the matter is not resolved, a trial date before a Superior Court judge or jury.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Felony Theft Cases

Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel approach felony theft defense by first examining every element of the prosecution’s case. They scrutinize the arrest report, witness statements, surveillance footage, and property valuations. Often, the key issue is not whether a taking occurred but whether the value reaches the felony threshold, whether the defendant had the requisite intent, or whether the identification procedure was flawed. The firm’s legal team reviews the charging document carefully and, where appropriate, engages in pre-indictment advocacy to seek a reduction of charges before a felony indictment is returned.

Once formal charges are filed, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel represent clients through all stages of the DC Superior Court process—status hearings, plea negotiations, motions practice, and trial. They work with the assigned Assistant United States Attorney to explore alternatives such as deferred sentencing, diversion, or a plea to a misdemeanor with a shorter period of incarceration and less severe collateral consequences. If the case cannot be resolved, the firm is prepared to try the matter, challenging the government’s evidence through cross-examination and presenting a defense that may include lack of intent, misidentification, or insufficient proof of value. Throughout the representation, the emphasis is on protecting the client’s record and future while seeking the most favorable resolution possible under the unique procedural rules of the District of Columbia.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced criminal law since 1997. A former prosecutor, he has firsthand insight into how the government builds theft cases, and he brings that perspective to every defense representation. 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, and he keeps his personal caseload manageable so that every client receives his focused attention.

Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience to felony theft defense in Columbia Heights. The team includes attorneys with deep familiarity with DC Superior Court practice, and their collective background encompasses evaluating forensic evidence, negotiating with federal prosecutors, and trying complex felonies to verdict. Across all practice areas, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have documented case results. Results may vary. in any individual matter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who prosecutes felony theft cases in Washington, D.C.?

Felony theft cases in DC are prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia (USAO-DC), not a local district attorney. Because DC is a federal district, all local criminal offenses under the D.C. Code are prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys in DC Superior Court. The same prosecutors also handle federal offenses in U.S. District Court. This means a felony theft defendant in Columbia Heights faces a federal prosecutor, making experienced defense representation particularly important. The case is heard at DC Superior Court, 500 Indiana Avenue NW, and the court’s Criminal Division handles all felony theft matters.

Does DC have cash bail for felony theft charges?

No, DC does not use a traditional cash-bail system; instead, the Pretrial Services Agency (PSA) evaluates each defendant’s risk and recommends release conditions to the court. After arrest, a PSA officer interviews the defendant, reviews their background, and prepares a report for the judge. Most defendants are released on personal recognizance or with non-monetary conditions such as stay-away orders or drug testing. For a felony theft charge, the court will consider the value of the alleged loss, the defendant’s ties to the community, and any prior record when deciding on release. An attorney can present relevant information at the initial appearance to advocate for the least restrictive conditions.

What are the penalties for felony theft in DC?

First-degree theft (value over $1,000, or theft involving a firearm or vehicle, or theft directly from a person) is a felony punishable by up to 10 years of imprisonment; second-degree theft is a misdemeanor with a maximum of 180 days. Felony theft convictions can also result in fines, restitution orders, and a permanent criminal record. Collateral consequences may include difficulty finding employment, loss of professional licenses, and, for non-citizens, potential immigration consequences. Because the stakes are high, a robust defense that challenges the valuation, intent, or identification can substantially affect the outcome. Under some circumstances, a felony charge may be reduced to a misdemeanor through pretrial advocacy.

Can I get my DC theft record sealed?

Yes, District of Columbia law permits record sealing for many theft offenses under D.C. Code § 16-803, provided the person is eligible and completes any required waiting period. Acquittals and dismissals are generally eligible for sealing immediately. For qualifying convictions, a waiting period applies, after which a petition may be filed with DC Superior Court. Certain marijuana offenses and some misdemeanor thefts may have expanded sealing eligibility. An attorney can assess whether your specific theft charge qualifies and, if so, guide you through the petition process. Sealing a record can significantly improve employment and housing prospects.

What should I do if I am arrested for felony theft in Columbia Heights?

If you are arrested for felony theft in Columbia Heights, exercise your right to remain silent and ask to speak with an attorney before answering any questions. Police may attempt to interview you about the alleged theft, but anything you say can be used against you in court. Do not discuss the facts with cellmates or on recorded jail calls. Once you are released or appointed counsel, contact an experienced defense lawyer promptly. Early intervention—even before formal charges are filed—can make a meaningful difference in the direction of the case, including the possibility of resolving the matter at the misdemeanor level or through a diversion program.

Do I need a lawyer for a felony theft charge in DC?

While you are not legally required to hire private counsel, having an attorney who practices regularly at DC Superior Court is essential for protecting your rights and building a defense against a felony theft charge. If you cannot afford an attorney, the court will appoint one—typically from the Public Defender Service for the District of Columbia—but you will not be able to choose your lawyer. By retaining private counsel, you can select an attorney who focuses on theft defense, has time to investigate your case thoroughly, and can begin working before the government files an indictment. Contact our firm at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your situation.

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Last reviewed: July 2026

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