Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Arlington County, VA

When you face a petit larceny charge in Arlington County, Virginia, the prosecution brings the full weight of the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office. A conviction—even for a misdemeanor—can follow you for life, affecting employment, housing, and professional licensing. At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys understand what is at stake. We are a multi-state firm practicing since 1997, and we appear regularly in the Arlington County General District Court and the Arlington County Circuit Court to defend clients against theft charges. To discuss your case and learn how we can help, call (888) 437-7747 today. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

What Petit Larceny Defense Means in Arlington County

In Virginia, the offense of petit larceny is defined by Va. Code § 18.2‑96. It applies when the value of the property taken is less than $1,000. The statute classifies petit larceny as a Class 1 misdemeanor. That may sound minor, but the consequences are not. A conviction exposes you to up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Even a first-offense conviction creates a permanent criminal record that prospective employers and landlords can see. In Arlington County, these cases are prosecuted in the General District Court, located at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd, Suite 2400, Arlington, VA 22201. Because Arlington is an urban, densely populated jurisdiction adjacent to Washington, D.C., the court handles a high volume of theft cases—everything from shoplifting at Pentagon City to wrongful taking in Crystal City. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Arlington County prosecutes each case, and the court process moves quickly. That makes early engagement with an experienced defense team critical.

Arlington County’s judicial landscape is unique. Misdemeanor trials and preliminary hearings are held in the General District Court, while felony matters and appeals proceed to the Circuit Court. For a petit larceny charge, the initial appearance is in the General District Court. If the case is not resolved there, the defendant may request a jury trial in the Circuit Court. Because the courts are busy, procedural deadlines are tight, and missing a hearing can lead to a capias warrant. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Appears before both courts regularly. We know the judges, the prosecutors, and the expectations of the Arlington judiciary—knowledge that helps us present a defense tailored to this jurisdiction.

How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Petit Larceny Cases

From the moment we are retained, the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys and support staff begin building a defense strategy around the specific facts of your case. We scrutinize the Commonwealth’s evidence: Was the value of the property correctly assessed? Can the prosecution prove intent to permanently deprive the owner? Were your rights respected during the stop or arrest? Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, reviews each case with an eye toward the weaknesses the prosecution does not want you to see. The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys include a former Virginia State Trooper, giving our team a unique perspective on how police investigations are conducted and where procedural errors may provide grounds for dismissal or reduction.

In Arlington County, many petit larceny charges arise from store security detentions, inventory discrepancies, or disputes over property ownership. 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. Code § 19.2‑303.2. We have achieved favorable outcomes for clients in Arlington County, including dismissals and amended charges. Results may vary. Our goal is always to minimize the immediate and long-term impact on your life.

If an amendment or dismissal is not possible, we prepare thoroughly for trial. We examine every piece of evidence, interview witnesses, and frame the strong $1 under the law. We understand that even a single day in court can disrupt your job, your family, and your peace of mind. That is why we manage the process efficiently, keeping you informed at every stage.

About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys

Mr. Sris is the Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. He brings the perspective of a former prosecutor to every criminal defense matter. Having seen how the Commonwealth prepares cases, he understands the tactics prosecutors use and knows how to counter them. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova), a measure that improved the equitable distribution framework in Virginia family law. That legislative engagement reflects his commitment to the legal system and the communities he serves.

The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience. They include a former Virginia State Trooper who spent 15 years in law enforcement and a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney. This collective background—prosecutorial and law‑enforcement experience—informs every case we accept. While Mr. Sris maintains a manageable caseload to remain personally involved in significant decisions, the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys contribute strategic insight and trial readiness. We represent clients throughout Northern Virginia, including Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William counties. We are available by phone during business hours. To request a consultation, call (888) 437-7747.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the penalty for petit larceny in Arlington County, Virginia?

Petit larceny, under Va. Code § 18.2‑96, is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine. Because the charge is a misdemeanor, the case is heard in the Arlington County General District Court. A conviction also creates a permanent criminal record. Our attorneys work to explore every option—from challenging the evidence to negotiating an amendment—to help you avoid these consequences.

How does a Virginia lawyer defend against petit larceny charges?

Defense strategies may include challenging the valuation of the property, disputing the identity of the accused, or arguing that there was no intent to permanently deprive the owner. In Arlington County, we also examine whether the police followed proper procedures during the stop, detention, or search. Where appropriate, we negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to amend the charge to a lesser offense or to seek a first‑offender disposition. Every case is fact‑specific, so we tailor the approach to your circumstances.

Can a petit larceny charge be expunged in Virginia?

Expungement is available for charges that end in an acquittal, a nolle prosequi (dismissal), or a dismissal after a deferred disposition. Virginia does not generally permit expungement of convictions, though certain first‑offender programs may allow for a dismissal that makes expungement possible. Our team can advise you on whether your case qualifies under Va. Code § 19.2‑392.2 and help you petition the Arlington County Circuit Court if the prerequisites are met.

What should I do if I am facing a petit larceny charge in Arlington County?

Contact an attorney immediately and refrain from discussing the case with anyone except your lawyer. Do not post about the incident on social media or speak with store security or police without counsel present. Preserve any receipts, photographs, or witness information that may support your defense. Early intervention by an experienced criminal defense team can make a material difference in how your case proceeds.

How does the court process work for a petit larceny charge in Arlington County?

The case begins with an arraignment in the General District Court, where you enter a plea. If you plead not guilty, the court sets a trial date, typically within a few weeks. The Commonwealth’s Attorney presents its evidence, and your attorney has the opportunity to cross‑examine witnesses and present a defense. If the case is not resolved, you may appeal to the Circuit Court for a jury trial. Our firm handles cases at both levels, so we can guide you through each step.

Do I need a lawyer for a petit larceny charge in Virginia?

Yes, because even a misdemeanor conviction can have lasting consequences for your record, your employment, and your immigration status. Prosecutors are experienced and will use the full resources of the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office against you. Without an attorney, you risk a criminal record that could follow you for years. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys have extensive experience defending theft charges in Arlington County courts. For a consultation, call (888) 437-7747.

Related pages:
Criminal Defense Lawyer Fairfax County, VA |
Criminal Defense Lawyer Prince William County, VA |
Criminal Defense Lawyer Loudoun County, VA |
Criminal Defense Lawyer Stafford County, VA

Virginia legal resources:
Virginia Code Title 18.2 – Crimes and Offenses |
Arlington County General District Court |
Arlington County Circuit Court

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder
Admitted in Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York
Practicing since 1997

Last reviewed: July 2026

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.