Felony Theft Lawyer Fauquier County, VA

A felony theft charge in Fauquier County can threaten your future with a prison sentence of up to 20 years. You need a defense team that understands the local courts and will work to protect your rights. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team bring over 120 years of combined legal experience to defend clients against grand larceny and property crimes. Results may vary. Call (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.

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Strategy Options for Your Felony Theft Case

Facing a grand larceny allegation under Virginia Code § 18.2-95 means the Commonwealth must prove that you took property worth $1,000 or more with intent to permanently deprive the owner. Our defense team examines every angle. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel challenge the valuation of the property, question the evidence of intent, and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. In some situations, we negotiate with the Fauquier County Commonwealth’s Attorney to reduce a felony charge to a misdemeanor, such as petit larceny, or to secure a deferred disposition under first‑offender programs. Every defense strategy is tailored to the specific facts and the goals of the client.

What to Expect When Facing Felony Theft Charges in Fauquier County

A felony theft arrest in Fauquier County starts a two‑tier court process. Your first appearance will typically be in the Fauquier County General District Court at 6 Court Street in Warrenton. That court holds preliminary hearings to determine whether probable cause exists to send the case to the Circuit Court. If the judge finds probable cause, your case is certified to the Fauquier County Circuit Court, where you are entitled to a jury trial. You have the right to present a defense, to cross‑examine witnesses, and to testify or remain silent. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel appear regularly in these courts and understand the local procedures and the expectations of the prosecutors and judges.

Between arrest and trial, your attorney can file motions to suppress evidence, negotiate plea offers, and explore pretrial diversion programs when you are eligible. Our team remains in communication with you throughout every stage, explaining your options clearly so you can make informed decisions. We work to achieve favorable outcomes — whether that means a dismissal, a reduction, or an acquittal at trial.

Penalty Overview for Felony Theft in Virginia

Grand larceny — the theft of property valued at $1,000 or more, or any theft directly from a person — is a felony in Virginia. The punishment prescribed by Va. Code § 18.2-95 is one to twenty years imprisonment. At jury discretion, the sentence may be reduced to up to twelve months in jail. A felony conviction carries additional life‑altering consequences: loss of the right to vote, loss of firearm rights, a permanent criminal record, and significant barriers to employment and housing. A conviction for felony theft can also affect immigration status. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work to minimize these consequences through a well‑prepared defense and, where appropriate, by advocating for a reduced charge or alternative disposition. Results may vary.

Attorney Credentials

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who has practiced criminal defense since 1997. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova), reflecting his commitment to Virginia law and procedure.

Mr. Sris leads a team of Of Counsel attorneys, each with extensive experience in Virginia criminal defense. The group includes a former Virginia State Trooper who spent 15 years in law enforcement and a former Maryland prosecutor who has tried hundreds of cases. Collectively, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience to every felony theft case. Results may vary. The team appears regularly in Fauquier County Circuit Court and General District Court and is familiar with the local prosecutors, court personnel, and procedural nuances.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is felony theft in Virginia?

Felony theft in Virginia is grand larceny — the unlawful taking of property with a value of $1,000 or more, or any theft from a person. Under Va. Code § 18.2-95, grand larceny is a felony offense. The distinction between a felony and a misdemeanor theft often turns on the value of the property. If the value is under $1,000, the charge is typically petit larceny, a Class 1 misdemeanor. Because the dollar threshold can be contested, the actual charge may change during the case.

What is the difference between grand larceny and petit larceny?

Grand larceny is a felony and applies when the stolen property is worth $1,000 or more, or when the theft is directly from a person. Petit larceny covers property valued at less than $1,000 and is a misdemeanor. The classifications are defined in Va. Code §§ 18.2‑95 and 18.2‑96. The key difference is the value; an experienced Fauquier County defense attorney can challenge the valuation and often argue for a misdemeanor reduction.

What are the penalties for felony theft in Fauquier County?

A conviction for grand larceny in Fauquier County can result in one to twenty years in prison, or as little as twelve months in jail at the jury’s discretion. The sentence depends on many factors, including the defendant’s criminal history and the specific facts of the case. Beyond incarceration, a felony record triggers the loss of voting rights, a federal firearms ban, and long-lasting damage to employment opportunities. Representation by a lawyer who knows the Fauquier County courts is critical.

How does the court process work for a felony theft charge in Fauquier County?

The process begins with an initial appearance and a preliminary hearing in the Fauquier County General District Court at 6 Court Street in Warrenton. At the preliminary hearing, the judge decides whether the prosecution has enough evidence to send the case to the Circuit Court. If certified, the case is set for trial in the Fauquier County Circuit Court, where you have the right to a jury. Our attorneys handle every step, from bond hearings through motion practice and trial.

Can a felony theft charge be reduced to a misdemeanor in Fauquier County?

Yes, a felony theft charge can be reduced to a misdemeanor through negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Common reduction targets include petit larceny or even a non‑theft offense. In addition, Virginia’s first‑offender statute (Va. Code § 19.2‑303.2) may allow deferred disposition for certain qualifying defendants, with eventual dismissal of the charge after probation completion. An attorney familiar with the local prosecutor’s policies can present the strong case for a reduction.

Do I need a lawyer for a felony theft charge?

Yes, you need a criminal defense lawyer immediately if you are facing a felony theft charge in Fauquier County. Felony charges carry decades of potential imprisonment and a permanent record. Attempting to handle the case alone or waiting too long to hire counsel can severely limit your options. Early involvement by an attorney allows for evidence preservation, investigation, and negotiation before formal charges are filed.

What defenses are available against a felony theft accusation?

Defenses may include challenging the property’s valuation, proving lack of intent to steal, mistaken identity, or establishing a claim of right. In some cases, the prosecution cannot meet its burden of proof on every element. Our Of Counsel team, including a former state trooper, reviews police reports for procedural errors and examines chain‑of‑custody issues. Each case is unique, and your defense strategy is built on the specific facts of your situation.

How do I choose a criminal defense attorney in Fauquier County?

Look for an attorney who practices regularly in the Fauquier County Circuit Court, has experience with felony theft cases, and is backed by a team with prosecution and law enforcement insight. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have documented results in Fauquier County, including favorable outcomes. Schedule a consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can put our 120‑plus years of combined experience to work for you.

Schedule a Consultation

If you or a family member is charged with felony theft in Fauquier County, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Today. Results may vary. Call (888) 437-7747 or reach our Fairfax location at (703) 636-5417. By appointment only. Our location is at 4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032.

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