Facing Grand Larceny Charges in King William County, VA? Here’s What You Need to Know
You were arrested in King William County and booked for grand larceny. It happened fast — the deputy
took your fingerprints at the magistrate’s office on Courthouse Lane, and now you’re facing a felony that
can put you in prison for years and leave a criminal record that follows you for life. You need to
understand what happens next and how an experienced defense attorney can protect your rights. Mr. Sris
and his Of Counsel team at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represent individuals charged with grand larceny
throughout Virginia, including in King William County. Call (888) 437-7747 to request a
confidential consultation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.
Strategic Defense Options for Grand Larceny in King William County
A grand larceny charge does not have to end in a felony conviction. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel examine
the case from every angle — the value of the property, the intent of the accused, the handling of evidence,
and the procedures used by law enforcement. In many cases, challenging the Commonwealth’s proof of value
can lead to a reduction of the charge to a misdemeanor. A well-prepared defense may also identify
evidentiary weaknesses, violations of constitutional rights, or grounds to negotiate a favorable resolution
with the prosecutor. Each case is unique, but a thorough investigation early in the process can make a
meaningful difference in the outcome.
For first offenses, alternative dispositions may be available depending on the circumstances, though
felony grand larceny does not carry the same automatic deferred-disposition provisions as some
misdemeanors. An experienced attorney can discuss whether any pretrial diversion or amendment to a lesser
charge is a realistic option under the facts of your case and the practices of the King William County
Commonwealth’s Attorney.
What to Expect When Your Grand Larceny Case Moves Through the Courts
Grand larceny prosecutions in King William County begin with an initial appearance in the King William
County General District Court (351 Courthouse Lane, Suite 201, King William, VA 23086). At that hearing, a
judge will inform you of the charge and set bond conditions if you are in custody. For felony charges, the
General District Court conducts a preliminary hearing to determine whether probable cause exists. If the
court finds probable cause, the case is certified to the King William County Circuit Court for trial or
further proceedings.
In Circuit Court, you have the right to a jury trial. The timeline for a felony case can range from
several months to over a year, depending on the complexity of the case, motions filed, and the court’s
docket. An attorney who regularly handles felony matters in the Ninth Judicial District can help you
navigate these procedural steps and make informed decisions at each stage.
Penalty Overview: What a Grand Larceny Conviction Means
Virginia law treats grand larceny as a felony. Under Va. Code § 18.2-95, a person convicted of grand
larceny faces a sentence of imprisonment for not less than one nor more than 20 years, or, at the
discretion of the jury or the court trying the case without a jury, confinement in jail for not more than
12 months and a fine of not more than $2,500, either or both. A felony conviction also carries
long‑term collateral consequences — loss of the right to vote and possess firearms, and a criminal record
that can hinder employment, housing, and professional licensing.
The threshold that separates grand larceny (felony) from petit larceny (misdemeanor) is the value of the
property taken: $1,000 or more, or theft directly from a person of $5 or more, triggers the felony charge.
A conviction for grand larceny stays on your record permanently unless you qualify for a pardon from the
Governor.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who has practiced
criminal defense since 1997. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey,
and New York. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel together bring over 120 years of combined legal experience with 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary. In King William County,
the firm’s attorneys have documented case results that include favorable resolutions through charge
amendments. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work as a coordinated team to build a defense tailored to the
circumstances of each client.
The firm’s Richmond location serves clients in King William County and the surrounding region. All
consultations are by appointment; you can reach us at (888) 437-7747.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between grand larceny and petit larceny in Virginia?
Grand larceny involves taking property valued at $1,000 or more, or stealing directly from a person of $5 or more; it is a felony under Va. Code § 18.2-95.
Petit larceny covers theft of property worth less than $1,000 and is a Class 1 misdemeanor. The
distinction determines the potential prison time, court where the case is heard, and lifelong
consequences. Because the value allegation can sometimes be challenged, a charge initially filed as
grand larceny may be amended to petit larceny if the evidence does not support the higher valuation.
Can a grand larceny charge be reduced to petit larceny in King William County?
Yes, in many cases the Commonwealth’s Attorney may agree to amend the charge to petit larceny if the evidence of value is weak or the defendant agrees to restitution.
The decision depends on the specific facts, the defendant’s criminal history, and the willingness of the
prosecutor to negotiate. An experienced defense attorney can evaluate whether the evidence supports the
$1,000 threshold and advocate for an amendment that reduces the case to a misdemeanor.
What should I do if I am arrested for grand larceny in King William County?
Exercise your right to remain silent and ask to speak with an attorney. Do not discuss
the facts of your case with law enforcement, jail staff, or anyone other than your lawyer. Anything you
say can be used against you. As soon as possible, contact a criminal defense attorney who handles felony
cases in King William County courts to protect your rights and begin building a defense.
How does the court process work for a grand larceny charge in King William County?
After arrest, you appear before a magistrate for bond, then your case is set for an initial appearance in King William County General District Court.
Because grand larceny is a felony, the GDC will hold a preliminary hearing to determine probable cause.
If probable cause is found, the case moves to the King William County Circuit Court, where you may face
a jury trial. The process can take several months; your attorney will guide you through each stage.
Do I need a lawyer for a grand larceny charge in Virginia?
Yes. A felony grand larceny conviction carries prison time and a permanent record — having an experienced attorney is critical.
A defense lawyer can challenge the evidence, negotiate with the prosecutor, and identify weaknesses in
the Commonwealth’s case that may not be obvious to a layperson. The stakes are high, and the
consequences of a felony conviction are severe. Early representation can significantly affect the
direction of your case.
For a comprehensive statutory analysis, see our detailed overview at
srislawyer.com/virginia-criminal-lawyer.
Contact Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
If you or a loved one is facing a grand larceny charge in King William County, call
(888) 437-7747 now to schedule a confidential consultation. We serve clients throughout
Virginia, including in King William, West Point, and Aylett, from our
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225.
By appointment. Call (888) 437-7747.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results may vary.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.