Grand Larceny Lawyer Fairfax — What Are Your Defense Options?
Grand larceny in Fairfax County is a felony under Va. Code § 18.2-95, carrying 1-20 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 501 documented criminal case results in Fairfax County. A grand larceny lawyer Fairfax from our firm can challenge the prosecution’s evidence and valuation of stolen property. Contact us 24/7 for a consultation by appointment.
Virginia Grand Larceny Statute & Penalties
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
In Virginia, grand larceny is defined as the theft of property valued at $1,000 or more, or the theft of certain items regardless of value (like firearms). It is prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-95. This is distinct from petit larceny (theft under $1,000), which is a misdemeanor. The classification and potential penalties are severe, making the choice of a grand larceny lawyer Fairfax critical to your defense.
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-95 (official Virginia General Assembly)
- Fairfax County General District Court Website
Defending a Grand Theft Charge in Fairfax County
Fairfax County prosecutors vigorously pursue grand larceny charges. A key local procedural fact is that the Commonwealth must prove the value of the stolen property meets or exceeds the $1,000 felony threshold. For a felony theft defense lawyer Fairfax, challenging this valuation is often a primary defense strategy. The property’s fair market value at the time of the theft is what matters, not its replacement cost or sentimental value.
- Initial Consultation & Case Review: A grand larceny lawyer Fairfax from our firm will review all police reports, witness statements, and evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Investigation & Evidence Gathering: We conduct an independent investigation, which may include obtaining security footage, interviewing witnesses, and consulting with valuation experts.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or challenge the sufficiency of the prosecution’s valuation evidence.
- Negotiation & Plea Bargaining: use case weaknesses to negotiate for a reduction to petit larceny or a favorable plea agreement that avoids jail time.
- Trial Preparation: If a fair plea cannot be reached, we prepare a strong defense for trial, whether in General District Court (preliminary hearing) or Circuit Court.
Penalties for Grand Larceny in Virginia
In Fairfax County, grand larceny is a felony punishable by 1 to 20 years in prison, though sentences can vary based on criminal history and circumstances.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Larceny (Value $1,000+) | Felony | 1 – 20 years | Up to $2,500 | Permanent felony record, difficulty finding employment, loss of professional licenses, ineligibility for certain government benefits. |
| Grand Larceny (Firearm) | Felony | 1 – 20 years (mandatory minimum may apply) | Up to $2,500 | Same as above, plus permanent loss of right to possess firearms. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Grand Larceny 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 “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we pursue every available defense strategy. We have a deep understanding of how Fairfax County prosecutors build grand larceny cases, from the initial police report to the evidence presented at trial.
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
In Fairfax County, our firm has 501 documented criminal case results, including 336 dismissals or not-guilty verdicts and 143 charges reduced or amended. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex felony matters. His background in accounting and information systems is particularly valuable in theft cases involving financial records or digital evidence.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Grand Larceny Lawyer Near Fairfax County
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fairfax County courts. We are a grand larceny lawyer near Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Grand Larceny Defense FAQs
What is the difference between grand larceny and petit larceny in Virginia?
The key difference is the value of the stolen property. Petit larceny involves property valued under $1,000 and is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Grand larceny involves property valued at $1,000 or more, or the theft of a firearm regardless of value, and is a felony.
Can a grand larceny charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends. A skilled felony theft defense lawyer Fairfax can often negotiate a reduction if the evidence for the $1,000 threshold is weak. This may involve challenging appraisals or presenting mitigating circumstances to the prosecutor, potentially resulting in a plea to petit larceny.
What are the defenses to a grand larceny charge?
Common defenses include mistaken identity, lack of intent to steal (claim of right), valuation below $1,000, insufficient evidence, unlawful search and seizure, or consent. Your grand larceny lawyer Fairfax will determine the best strategy based on the specific facts of your case.
Do I need a lawyer for a grand larceny charge?
Yes. Grand larceny is a felony with potential prison time and lifelong consequences. The Fairfax County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office vigorously prosecutes these cases. An experienced grand theft charge lawyer Fairfax is essential to protect your rights, challenge evidence, and work toward the best possible outcome.
What happens at a preliminary hearing for grand larceny?
The preliminary hearing is held in Fairfax County General District Court. The prosecutor must show probable cause that a felony was committed and that you likely committed it. This is a critical stage where your lawyer can cross-examine witnesses and challenge the evidence before the case is sent to Circuit Court for trial.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Fairfax City and with related charges such as DUI.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.