Petit Larceny Lawyer Alexandria, VA

In Virginia, a petit larceny charge—often called petty theft—arises when property of less than $1,000 is allegedly taken without consent. Under Va. Code § 18.2‑96, the offense is a Class 1 misdemeanor and can result in up to 12 months in jail and a fine, in addition to a permanent criminal record that may affect employment, housing, and professional licenses. The Alexandria Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases, and trials are held at the Alexandria General District Court at 520 King Street, 2nd Floor. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys appear regularly in Alexandria’s courts and understand how prosecutors build petit larceny cases. If you have been charged, early legal guidance makes a difference. To discuss your situation, call (888) 437‑7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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What Petit Larceny Means in Alexandria, Virginia

Alexandria is an independent city just south of Arlington and across the Potomac from Washington, D.C. Its criminal docket is split between the Alexandria General District Court, which handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings, and the Alexandria Circuit Court, which hears felony jury trials and all appeals from the general district court. Because petit larceny is a misdemeanor, the case stays in the General District Court unless the defendant appeals a conviction to the Circuit Court for a new trial.

The $1,000 threshold is the dividing line between petit and grand larceny. Common petit larceny charges in Alexandria involve shoplifting from retailers in Old Town, Del Ray, or Kingstowne, as well as theft of personal property from a workplace or residence. A conviction under § 18.2‑96 is permanent—Virginia does not allow most misdemeanor convictions to be expunged, though first‑offender disposition under Va. Code § 19.2‑303.2 may result in a dismissal after completion of probation. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys handle petit larceny cases from arraignment through trial, working to identify defenses and seek the most favorable outcome allowed by law.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Petit Larceny Cases

When a client is charged with petit larceny in Alexandria, the firm’s first step is a thorough review of the evidence—surveillance footage, store‑employee statements, police reports, and any admissions obtained during the investigation. Because petit larceny is often a he‑said‑she‑said matter, effective cross‑examination of the Commonwealth’s witnesses can be critical. If procedural errors occurred—for example, a stop or search that lacked reasonable suspicion—the firm may move to suppress evidence.

For eligible clients, the firm works to negotiate an amendment of the charge or, when possible, a first‑offender disposition under Va. Code § 19.2‑303.2. Under that statute, the court may defer a finding of guilt and place the defendant on probation; upon successful completion, the charge is dismissed. If a trial is necessary, the firm’s attorneys prepare a well‑prepared defense, present mitigating evidence, and advocate for a verdict or sentence that protects the client’s record and future. Every case is different, but early involvement by experienced counsel often expands the options available.

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

Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor who now practices as Owner and Founder. 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 prosecutorial background gives him insight into how the Commonwealth builds its case—an advantage he brings to every petit larceny defense.

Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience. Results may vary. The firm’s Arlington location at 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room 719, Arlington, VA 22209, serves clients throughout Alexandria and surrounding communities. For a consultation, call (888) 437‑7747.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the penalty for petit larceny in Alexandria, Virginia?

Petit larceny in Alexandria is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine. The charge is prosecuted in the Alexandria General District Court under Va. Code § 18.2‑96. In addition to court‑imposed punishment, a conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, security clearances, and professional licensing. First‑offender programs may offer an alternative to a conviction, but the specific outcome depends on the facts of the case and the defendant’s history. Early legal representation is important to protect your rights.

Can a petit larceny charge be expunged in Alexandria?

Expungement of a petit larceny charge is available in Virginia only if the charge was dismissed, the defendant was acquitted, or the prosecution entered a nolle prosequi. Under Va. Code § 19.2‑392.2, most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in the Alexandria Circuit Court. For first‑time offenders, a deferred disposition under § 19.2‑303.2 may lead to a dismissal, which then makes expungement possible. Because the eligibility rules are narrow, it is helpful to discuss your specific circumstances with an attorney.

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

You are not legally required to hire a lawyer for a petit larceny charge, but representing yourself carries significant risks. Even a misdemeanor conviction can result in jail time, fines, and a permanent record. An experienced attorney can evaluate the evidence, identify procedural defenses, and negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or alternative resolution. Alexandria General District Court does not assign counsel for minor misdemeanors, so having private representation ensures someone advocates for your interests at every stage.

What are possible defenses to petit larceny in Virginia?

Common defenses to petit larceny in Virginia include lack of intent to permanently deprive the owner of the property, mistaken identity, or a claim of right to the property. Because the Commonwealth must prove the defendant intended to steal, evidence that the taking was accidental, consensual, or under a reasonable belief of ownership can defeat the charge. Procedural defenses—such as an unlawful stop or an improperly obtained statement—may also lead to suppression of evidence. Each case is unique, and the defense strategy depends on the specific facts.

How does the court process work for a petit larceny case in Alexandria?

A petit larceny case in Alexandria typically begins with an arrest or summons, followed by an arraignment at the Alexandria General District Court where the defendant enters a plea. If the plea is not guilty, a trial date is set. Misdemeanor trials are heard by a judge without a jury; the Commonwealth must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. After trial, the court may sentence immediately or set a later date for sentencing. If convicted, the defendant can appeal to the Alexandria Circuit Court for a new trial. The timeline varies by court scheduling, but early attorney involvement can influence the outcome before trial.

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Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.