Grand Larceny Lawyer Georgetown, DC

In Georgetown, one of Washington, D.C.’s most historic and vibrant neighborhoods, a grand larceny accusation can disrupt your life instantly. The charge is serious—first‑degree theft under D.C. Law—and the consequences reach far beyond a courtroom. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings experience in the District’s unique criminal justice system to clients throughout Georgetown, from the waterfront to the university corridors. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel appear regularly at DC Superior Court, located at 500 Indiana Avenue NW, just a few miles from our Arlington location. If you or someone close to you is facing a grand larceny allegation in Georgetown, reach our Arlington location at (888) 437‑7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

On This Page

What Grand Larceny Means in Georgetown

Under District of Columbia law, grand larceny is charged as first‑degree theft when the value of the property allegedly taken is $1,000 or more. The offense falls within D.C. Code Title 22 and is prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia—not a local district attorney—because of the federal‑local hybrid structure that governs the nation’s capital. Cases are heard at the DC Superior Court Criminal Division, and a conviction carries a potential sentence of up to ten years of imprisonment, along with fines and a permanent criminal record.

Georgetown’s mix of high‑end retail, university life, and residential streets means that theft allegations arise in varied contexts: from shoplifting disputes along M Street and Wisconsin Avenue to accusations involving personal property on the Georgetown University campus or in private homes. The proximity of the court—just minutes across the Potomac via I‑66 or the Key Bridge—makes local knowledge of DC Superior Court procedure a practical advantage. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel understand that every Georgetown case must be examined against the specific charge, the evidence, and the individual’s background, not just the dollar figure in the complaint.

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

When we engage with a grand larceny matter in Georgetown, the process starts with a thorough review of the charging document and the government’s evidence. Grand larceny requires proof that the accused intended to permanently deprive the owner of property valued at or above the statutory threshold. Many cases turn on the valuation of the item, the presence or absence of intent, or potential defenses such as claim of right or mistaken identity. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel examine police reports, surveillance footage, witness statements, and any procedural issues that may affect the admissibility of evidence.

Throughout the proceedings, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel appear at DC Superior Court to advocate at every stage—from the presentment and preliminary hearing through any pretrial motions and, if necessary, trial. Because DC uses the Pretrial Services Agency instead of a cash‑bail system, a release determination is often made quickly after arrest; we work to present the strong case for release and to protect the client’s liberty during the pendency of the matter. Whether the strategy involves negotiating a reduction of charges, challenging the valuation evidence, or taking the case to a jury, the approach is built on preparation and a deep familiarity with the Criminal Division’s practices.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced since 1997 and is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Before founding the firm, he served as a former prosecutor, experience that informs his approach to defense. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).

Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience. Results may vary. The team includes attorneys with substantial backgrounds in criminal defense, many of whom regularly appear in DC Superior Court. Our Arlington location—1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room 719, Arlington, VA 22209—is minutes from Georgetown and the courthouse, and we serve clients by appointment. Call (888) 437‑7747 to speak with us about your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who prosecutes grand larceny cases in Washington, D.C.?

Criminal cases in Washington, D.C., including grand larceny, are prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, not a local prosecutor. The District’s unique status as a federal territory means that local crimes under the D.C. Code are handled by federal prosecutors. All grand larceny cases are heard at DC Superior Court, 500 Indiana Avenue NW. The court uses the Pretrial Services Agency instead of cash bail, and the public‑defender service is available for those who qualify. Private counsel may be retained at any stage.

Does DC use cash bail for grand larceny arrests?

No, Washington, D.C. Does not use a traditional cash‑bail system; the Pretrial Services Agency evaluates risk and recommends release conditions to the court. Most defendants charged with grand larceny are released without posting money. The court may impose conditions such as reporting requirements, drug testing, or stay‑away orders, but the primary goal is to secure appearance at future proceedings without financial barriers. A lawyer can present arguments and proposed conditions at the presentment hearing to support a client’s release.

Can a grand larceny conviction in D.C. Be sealed from my record?

Yes, D.C. Law permits sealing of certain grand larceny convictions, but eligibility depends on the charge’s outcome and the waiting period that applies. Under D.C. Code § 16‑803, acquittals and dismissals may be sealed immediately. For convictions, a waiting period applies, and some offenses are excluded. An attorney can evaluate whether your specific grand larceny matter qualifies for record sealing and can prepare the petition to be filed at DC Superior Court. Marijuana‑related offenses have expanded eligibility, but theft‑related offenses remain subject to the general sealing framework.

What is the difference between grand larceny and petit larceny in D.C.?

The main difference is the value of the property allegedly taken: grand larceny (first‑degree theft) involves property valued at $1,000 or more, while petit larceny (second‑degree theft) involves property under $1,000. First‑degree theft is a felony punishable by up to ten years of imprisonment. Second‑degree theft is a misdemeanor with a maximum sentence of 180 days and a fine. The valuation can be disputed, and a skilled defense may seek to have the charge reduced based on the evidence of value. Other factors, such as prior record, can influence the prosecution’s approach.

What should I do if I am accused of grand larceny in Georgetown?

If you are accused of grand larceny in Georgetown, do not speak to the police about the allegations and contact a criminal defense attorney immediately. Anything you say can be used against you, and Georgetown is patrolled by the Metropolitan Police Department as well as federal law enforcement. Preserve any physical or digital evidence that might be relevant, but do not interfere with potential witnesses. An attorney can advise you on how to respond to an investigation and can begin gathering information to challenge the accusations at the earliest possible stage.

How do I find a grand larceny lawyer who serves Georgetown?

Look for a lawyer experienced in DC Superior Court criminal defense who is familiar with Georgetown and the practices of the United States Attorney’s Office for D.C. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel appear regularly at the court on Indiana Avenue and are admitted in the District of Columbia. Our Arlington location is a short drive from Georgetown, and we can schedule an appointment promptly. Call (888) 437‑7747 to discuss your case with a member of our team.

Official sources: D.C. Code Title 22 | DC Superior Court | United States Attorney’s Office for D.C.

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case. Results may vary.

Last reviewed: July 2026