Grand Larceny Lawyer Albemarle County — Defending Felony Theft Charges
A grand larceny charge in Albemarle County is a felony under Va. Code § 18.2-95, defined as theft of property valued at $1,000 or more, and can result in 1 to 20 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those accused.
Virginia Grand Larceny Law and Penalties
In Virginia, grand larceny is a serious felony offense. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-95, defines it as the theft of money, goods, or chattels valued at $1,000 or more. The value of the property alleged to have been stolen is the primary factor that elevates a theft charge from a misdemeanor (petit larceny) to a felony.
Last verified: April 2026 | Albemarle County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience handling complex criminal cases, including financial crimes where the valuation of property is a central issue.
Official Legal Resources
For the official Virginia statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-95 (Grand Larceny). Court information for Albemarle County can be found at the Albemarle County General District Court website.
Defending a Grand Larceny Charge in Albemarle County
The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you took property belonging to another with the intent to permanently deprive them of it, and that the property’s value was $1,000 or more. A key defense strategy often involves challenging the prosecution’s evidence of value. Prosecutors in Albemarle County must provide admissible evidence, such as receipts or experienced testimony, to establish the $1,000 threshold. A skilled felony theft defense lawyer Albemarle County will scrutinize this valuation.
- Initial Consultation & Case Review: Contact our firm immediately after arrest or receiving a summons. We will review the charging documents and police reports to identify the prosecution’s valuation method.
- Investigation & Evidence Challenge: We investigate the alleged value of the property, seeking receipts, appraisals, or other documentation. We may file motions to suppress improperly obtained evidence.
- Pre-Trial Negotiation: Based on the evidence, we negotiate with the prosecutor, often seeking a reduction to a misdemeanor or exploring diversion programs for first-time offenders.
- Trial Preparation: If a fair plea cannot be reached, we prepare a vigorous defense for trial in Albemarle County Circuit Court, where you have the right to a jury.
Potential Penalties for Grand Larceny in Virginia
In Albemarle County, grand larceny is a felony punishable by 1 to 20 years in prison, or, in the discretion of the jury or court, confinement in jail for up to 12 months and a fine of up to $2,500.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Larceny (Value $1,000+) | Felony | 1-20 years in prison OR up to 12 months in jail | Up to $2,500 | Permanent felony record, difficulty finding employment, loss of professional licenses, ineligibility for certain government benefits. |
| Grand Larceny (Firearm) | Felony | Mandatory minimum 2 years, up to 20 years | Up to $2,500 | Same as above, with enhanced penalties. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” approach means we use every available resource to defend our clients. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, giving us unique insight into how the other side builds cases. We have documented case results across Virginia, including favorable outcomes in theft-related matters.
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
Our firm has a documented result in Albemarle County General District Court where a charge was amended to a favorable outcome. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. In another jurisdiction, we secured a nolle prosequi (dismissal) for a property destruction charge. These results demonstrate our commitment to seeking the best possible resolution in each case.
Our secondary attorney on complex criminal matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting, which is particularly valuable in financial crime cases like grand larceny.
Grand Larceny Lawyer Near Albemarle County
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at the Albemarle County courts in Charlottesville. We are accessible via I-64 and represent clients in Charlottesville, Crozet, Earlysville, Ivy, and North Garden.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny in Virginia?
The key difference is the value of the stolen property. Petit larceny is a misdemeanor for theft under $1,000. Grand larceny is a felony for theft of $1,000 or more. The exact valuation is often a critical point of defense.
Can a grand larceny charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends. A skilled grand theft charge lawyer Albemarle County can often negotiate a reduction if the evidence of value is questionable or if the defendant is eligible for a first-offender or diversion program. The final decision rests with the prosecutor and the court.
What are the long-term consequences of a grand larceny conviction?
A felony conviction creates a permanent criminal record, skilled to difficulties securing employment, housing, and professional licenses. It can also impact immigration status, voting rights, and the right to possess firearms.
Do I need a lawyer for a grand larceny charge?
Yes. Given the severe penalties and lifelong consequences of a felony conviction, hiring an experienced grand larceny lawyer Albemarle County is essential to protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and fight for the best possible outcome.
What should I do if I am arrested for grand larceny?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone until you have consulted with your attorney. Contact our firm at (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation to begin building your defense.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing other charges, our firm also handles DUI defense in Albemarle County and family law matters. For more information on Virginia criminal defense, visit our state criminal defense hub page. We also serve clients in neighboring areas like Henrico County.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.