Grand Larceny Lawyer Manassas — What Are Your Defense Options?
Grand larceny in Manassas is a felony under Va. Code § 18.2-95, defined as theft of property valued at $1,000 or more. A conviction can result in 1 to 20 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced defense for grand theft charges.
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ToggleVirginia Grand Larceny Law
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Grand larceny is a serious felony in Virginia. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-95, defines it as the theft of money, goods, or chattels valued at $1,000 or more. This is distinct from petit larceny (theft under $1,000), which is a misdemeanor. The $1,000 threshold is critical and is often a primary point of contention in a grand theft charge lawyer Manassas defense strategy. The prosecution must prove the value of the stolen property beyond a reasonable doubt.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, refer to the Virginia General Assembly website (Va. Code § 18.2-95). Court procedures and filings for Manassas cases are handled through the Manassas General District Court.
Defending a Grand Larceny Case in Manassas
In Manassas General District Court, felony grand larceny charges begin with a preliminary hearing. The key local procedural fact is that the Commonwealth’s Attorney must establish probable cause that a felony was committed and that you committed it. If bound over, the case proceeds to Manassas Circuit Court for a jury trial. A skilled felony theft defense lawyer Manassas will scrutinize every element, especially the property’s valuation.
- Arraignment & Bond Hearing: Your first appearance in Manassas GDC where charges are formally read.
- Preliminary Hearing: The prosecution presents evidence to show probable cause for the felony charge.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If bound over, you are arraigned again in Manassas Circuit Court.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney obtains evidence and files motions to suppress or dismiss.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: A plea deal may be offered, or the case proceeds to a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows, with arguments for mitigation.
Penalties for Grand Larceny in Virginia
In Manassas, grand larceny is a felony punishable by 1 to 20 years in prison, or at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Larceny (Value $1,000+) | Felony | 1 – 20 years (or up to 12 months at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 (if sentenced as misdemeanor) | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, difficulty finding employment and housing. |
| Grand Larceny with Prior Convictions | Felony | Mandatory minimum sentences may apply. | Court discretion | None directly | Enhanced penalties as a repeat offender. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results. We understand that a grand larceny charge threatens your future, and we build a defense focused on protecting it.
Kristen M. Fisher, Of Counsel (Former Prosecutor)
Kristen Fisher, a former Assistant State’s Attorney in Maryland, leads our criminal defense practice in Virginia and Maryland. Admitted to the Virginia and Maryland State Bars, her firsthand prosecutorial experience provides significant insight into constructing defenses against theft charges. She focuses on vigorous courtroom representation and strategic case analysis.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
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 & Client Advocacy
While specific Manassas grand larceny results are protected by confidentiality, our firm’s approach is demonstrated in past outcomes. For example, our team has successfully argued for the reduction of felony charges to misdemeanors based on valuation disputes and has secured dismissals where evidence was insufficient.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Grand Larceny Lawyer Near Manassas, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas courts (9311 Lee Avenue), accessible via I-66 and Route 28. We provide legal representation to individuals throughout Manassas. 24/7 phone consultations are available — meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between grand larceny and petit larceny in Virginia?
The value. Petit larceny is theft of property valued under $1,000 and is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Grand larceny involves property valued at $1,000 or more and is a felony. The valuation is often a key defense point for a Grand Larceny Lawyer Manassas.
Can a grand larceny felony be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends. If the defense can successfully challenge the prosecution’s evidence on the property’s value, showing it is below the $1,000 threshold, the charge may be reduced to petit larceny. A skilled felony theft defense lawyer Manassas will investigate all avenues for reduction.
What are common defenses to a grand theft charge?
Common defenses include mistaken identity, lack of intent to steal (claim of right), valuation below $1,000, insufficient evidence, and unlawful search and seizure. An experienced grand theft charge lawyer Manassas will tailor the defense to the specific facts of your case.
Do I need a lawyer for a grand larceny charge?
Yes. Grand larceny is a felony with severe, life-altering penalties. The legal process is complex, and the prosecution must prove every element. A Grand Larceny Lawyer Manassas protects your rights, challenges evidence, and works toward the best possible outcome.
Where is the Manassas court for grand larceny cases?
Grand larceny cases begin with a preliminary hearing at the Manassas General District Court at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230. If bound over, the felony trial is held at the Manassas Circuit Court.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in Fairfax and with related charges like DUI in Manassas.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.