Petit Larceny Lawyer Fauquier County, VA
If you have been charged with petit larceny in Fauquier County, Virginia, you are facing a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-96 that can result in up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Petit larceny covers the theft of money or property valued at less than $1,000, as well as larceny from the person of another of less than $5. Prosecutions take place at the Fauquier County General District Court, 6 Court Street, Warrenton, VA 20186. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, and his Of Counsel team at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provide focused defense for individuals accused of petit larceny throughout Fauquier County. For a consultation, call (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.
What Petit Larceny Means in Fauquier County
In Virginia, petit larceny is defined by Va. Code § 18.2-96 as simple larceny where the property involved is worth less than $1,000, or larceny from the person of another where the amount taken is less than $5. It is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. The Fauquier County General District Court has original jurisdiction over all misdemeanor trials, while the Fauquier County Circuit Court hears appeals of right and any felony charges. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Fauquier County prosecutes these cases. Plea bargaining is permitted under Rule 3A:8 of the Rules of the Supreme Court of Virginia; the Commonwealth’s Attorney and defense counsel may negotiate a plea agreement, which the court may accept or reject.
First‑offender programs are available. If a defendant successfully completes the terms of probation — which may include community service, restitution, and remaining arrest‑free — the court may dismiss the charge. Expungement of a dismissed or nolle prossed petit larceny charge is possible, provided no conviction is entered. Convictions generally cannot be expunged. Because a theft conviction carries lasting consequences, early legal guidance is critical. The defense team at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. understands how these local procedures work and helps clients pursue the most favorable outcome.
Fauquier County General District Court is currently presided over by Hon. Lorrie Ann Sinclair Taylor. Court hours: Mon-Fri 8:00AM-4:00PM. Counsel appearing on criminal matters should plan filings accordingly.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Petit Larceny Cases
When you engage Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a petit larceny matter in Fauquier County, you are represented by a team that includes a former prosecutor and former law enforcement officers. Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of the firm, is a former prosecutor who uses his inside knowledge of how the Commonwealth builds its case to identify weaknesses and develop a tailored defense. His Of Counsel includes a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of law enforcement experience, bringing a unique perspective on police procedures, investigative techniques, and evidence collection. Together, they challenge the prosecution’s evidence, examine the credibility of witnesses, and explore every avenue for a favorable resolution.
The defense approach is not one‑size‑fits‑all. In many cases, the goal is to negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the charge to a non‑theft offense or to secure a deferred disposition under Virginia’s first‑offender statute. When a trial is necessary, the team is prepared to advocate before the judge. Because the firm practices in Fauquier County courts regularly, the attorneys understand the expectations of the local bench and the practices of the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office. This familiarity allows them to advise clients realistically and work efficiently toward a resolution that protects 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 law since 1997 and is a former prosecutor. 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). His experience on the prosecution side gives him insight into how criminal charges are brought and pursued, which he applies to every petit larceny defense he handles with his Of Counsel.
Mr. Sris’s Of Counsel team includes a former Virginia State Trooper with over 15 years of law enforcement service and a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience and have achieved 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary. The firm serves Fauquier County clients from its Fairfax Location, conveniently located at 4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032. For a consultation about a petit larceny charge in Fauquier County, call (888) 437-7747.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the penalties for a petit larceny conviction in Virginia?
Petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Under Va. Code § 18.2-96, a conviction also creates a permanent criminal record. The actual sentence depends on factors such as prior record, the value of the property taken, and whether the defendant is eligible for a first‑offender program. For many first‑time offenders, diversion and dismissal are possible. To understand the full range of penalties and alternatives for your situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Can a petit larceny charge be expunged in Fauquier County?
Yes, a petit larceny charge can be expunged in Fauquier County if the case ended in an acquittal, nolle prosequi, or dismissal. The petition is filed in Fauquier County Circuit Court. Convictions generally cannot be expunged. If a first‑offender deferred disposition was successfully completed and the charge dismissed, expungement may be available. An attorney can review the record to determine eligibility and handle the petition process.
How can a lawyer help with a petit larceny charge?
An attorney can challenge the prosecution’s evidence, negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, and advocate for a dismissal or reduction of the charge. Defense strategies may include questioning the valuation of the alleged stolen property, raising defects in identification or chain of custody, and demonstrating that the accused lacked criminal intent. In Fauquier County, the defense may also pursue a first‑offender deferred disposition to avoid a conviction. Engaging counsel early improves the chance of a favorable outcome.
What should I do if I am accused of shoplifting or petit larceny in Fauquier County?
Remain silent, do not discuss the case with store personnel or police, and contact a criminal defense attorney immediately. Anything you say can be used against you. Politely decline to answer questions and ask to speak with a lawyer. Early legal intervention can preserve evidence, prevent damaging statements, and position the case for a possible pre‑trial resolution. Call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your situation.
Do I need a lawyer for a petit larceny charge in Fauquier County?
Yes — a petit larceny conviction carries the possibility of jail time and a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses. Even if you believe the charge is minor, the consequences of a theft conviction are serious. An experienced defense attorney can evaluate the evidence, explain your options, and work to minimize the impact on your life. For guidance, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.
Also serving:
Fairfax County Criminal Lawyer ·
Prince William County Criminal Lawyer ·
Stafford County Criminal Lawyer ·
Loudoun County Criminal Lawyer ·
Arlington County Criminal Lawyer
Official resources —
Va. Code § 18.2‑96 ·
Va. Code § 19.2‑392.2 ·
Fauquier County General District Court
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