Grand Larceny Lawyer Fauquier County — Defending Felony Theft Charges
Grand larceny in Fauquier County is a felony under Va. Code § 18.2-95, defined as theft of property valued at $1,000 or more. It carries 1 to 20 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those facing a grand theft charge in Fauquier County.
Virginia Grand Larceny Law & 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 threshold was raised from $200 to $1,000 effective July 1, 2018. Theft of certain items, like firearms, is always grand larceny regardless of value under § 18.2-108.1.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fauquier County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our background in accounting and information systems provides a unique advantage in analyzing financial evidence in theft cases.
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2, Chapter 5 (Larceny) – Official Virginia statutes.
- Fauquier County General District Court – Court website for case information.
Fauquier County Court Process for Grand Larceny
In Fauquier County, a grand larceny charge begins with an arrest or summons. The case starts in Fauquier County General District Court (6 Court Street, Warrenton) for a preliminary hearing to determine probable cause. If the judge finds probable cause, the case is certified to Fauquier County Circuit Court for a felony jury trial. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Fauquier County prosecutes these cases. A felony theft defense lawyer Fauquier County can challenge the evidence at both stages.
- Arrest & Initial Appearance: You will be taken before a magistrate for a bond hearing. A lawyer can argue for personal recognizance or lower bond.
- Preliminary Hearing: In General District Court, the prosecution must show probable cause. Your attorney can cross-examine witnesses and move to dismiss.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If certified, you will be formally charged in Circuit Court and enter a plea.
- Discovery & Motions: Your defense attorney will review all evidence, file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, and negotiate with the prosecutor.
- Trial or Plea: The case proceeds to a jury trial or may be resolved through a plea agreement for a reduced charge.
- Sentencing: If convicted, your attorney will advocate for the most favorable sentence, arguing for alternatives to incarceration.
Grand Larceny Penalties in Fauquier County
In Fauquier County, grand larceny is a felony punishable by 1 to 20 years in the state penitentiary, or at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony | 1-20 years (or up to 12 months at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, difficulty finding employment and housing. |
| Grand Larceny of a Firearm | Felony | Mandatory minimum 2 years, up to 20 years. | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Same as above, plus mandatory active prison time. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Theft Charges
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, giving us insight into how the other side builds cases. Mr. Sris, the managing attorney, has a background in accounting, which is particularly valuable in theft cases involving financial evidence. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients across Virginia.
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
Our defense strategy is also supported by the extensive experience of Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a multi-state practice. His strategic oversight is crucial in complex felony defense.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
Our approach focuses on a detailed review of the prosecution’s evidence. For theft charges, this includes examining valuation reports, challenging surveillance evidence, and investigating witness credibility. We explore all defenses, such as claim of right, lack of intent, or mistaken identity. In Fauquier County, we have documented results achieving amended or reduced charges for clients.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Grand Larceny Defense Near Fauquier County
Our Fairfax location serves clients in Fauquier County, including Warrenton, New Baltimore, Bealeton, Marshall, and The Plains. We are accessible via I-66, Route 29, and Route 17.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Grand Larceny Defense FAQs
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 theft of items valued under $1,000 and is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Grand larceny is theft of property valued at $1,000 or more and is a felony. Theft of a firearm is always grand larceny.
Can a grand larceny charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends. A skilled felony theft defense lawyer Fauquier County can negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction, especially if the valuation is close to the $1,000 threshold, if there are evidentiary issues, or if the defendant has no prior record. This is often a primary goal of the defense.
What are the defenses to a grand larceny charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to permanently deprive the owner, claim of right (a good faith belief the property was yours), mistaken identity, insufficient evidence of value exceeding $1,000, or challenging the legality of how evidence was obtained. Each case requires a unique strategy.
Do I need a lawyer for a grand larceny charge in Fauquier County?
Yes. Grand larceny is a felony with potential prison time and lifelong consequences. The Fauquier County Commonwealth’s Attorney vigorously prosecutes these cases. A grand larceny lawyer Fauquier County is essential to protect your rights, challenge evidence, and work toward the best possible outcome.
What court handles grand larceny cases in Fauquier County?
The case begins with a preliminary hearing in Fauquier County General District Court. If probable cause is found, it is transferred to Fauquier County Circuit Court for a felony jury trial. A grand theft charge lawyer Fauquier County must be prepared to defend you in both courts.
Internal Resources
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer Hub
- Criminal Defense Lawyer in Fairfax County
- DUI Lawyer in Fauquier County
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.