Grand Larceny Lawyer Albemarle County — Defending Felony Theft Charges
Grand larceny in Albemarle County is a felony under Va. Code § 18.2-95, defined as theft of property valued at $1,000 or more. A conviction can result in 1 to 20 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those accused of felony theft. If you are facing a grand theft charge, contact a grand larceny lawyer Albemarle County immediately.
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. This is distinct from petit larceny (theft under $1,000), which is a misdemeanor. The threshold amount is critical in determining the severity of the charge and potential penalties.
Last verified: April 2026 | Albemarle County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, whose background in accounting provides a distinct advantage in cases involving financial evidence and valuation disputes common in theft cases.
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-95 (official Virginia General Assembly) – The statute defining grand larceny.
- Albemarle County General District Court – Official court website for case information and procedures.
Defending a Grand Larceny Charge in Albemarle County
The key local procedural fact is that grand larceny cases begin in Albemarle County General District Court for a preliminary hearing to determine probable cause. If bound over, the felony trial occurs in Albemarle County Circuit Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney must prove you intentionally took property belonging to another, valued at $1,000 or more, with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. A felony theft defense lawyer Albemarle County can challenge the evidence on each element.
- Initial Court Appearance: You will be arraigned in General District Court, where the charge is formally read, and bond conditions are set.
- Preliminary Hearing: The prosecution presents evidence to show probable cause that a felony was committed. Your attorney can cross-examine witnesses and argue for a reduction or dismissal.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If the case is certified to Circuit Court, you will be arraigned again and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges and reviews all discovery from the prosecution.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Your lawyer negotiates with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a favorable plea deal or prepares for a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, your attorney presents mitigating evidence to argue for the most lenient sentence possible under the law.
Potential Penalties for Grand Larceny in Virginia
In Albemarle County, grand larceny is a felony punishable by 1 to 20 years in prison, 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 (Value $1,000+) | Felony | 1-20 years in prison (or up to 12 months in jail at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | None directly, but may affect professional licenses | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, difficulty obtaining employment/housing |
| Grand Larceny from a Person | Felony | 2-20 years (mandatory minimum 2 years) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Enhanced penalties due to victim presence |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Grand Larceny Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our grand larceny lawyer Albemarle County team understands that a felony theft charge threatens your future, reputation, and freedom. We approach each case with a focus on the specific details—challenging the prosecution’s evidence on valuation, intent, and identification. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute (Va. Code § 20-107.3), demonstrating a deep understanding of Virginia law and legislative process.
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 in Albemarle County
Our firm has documented results defending clients in Albemarle County courts. In one case, our attorneys successfully negotiated an amendment for a client facing a serious charge. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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 useful in financial and property valuation cases.
Local Grand Larceny Defense Serving Albemarle County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Albemarle County courts (350 Park Street, Charlottesville), accessible via I-64, Route 29, and Route 250. If you need a grand larceny lawyer near Charlottesville or near the University of Virginia, we are here to help. We serve the Charlottesville area, Crozet, Earlysville, Ivy, and North Garden.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
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. Theft of property valued at $1,000 or more is grand larceny, a felony. Theft under $1,000 is petit larceny, a misdemeanor. The valuation method and evidence are often central points of defense.
Can a grand larceny charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends. A skilled felony theft defense lawyer Albemarle County can negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the charge to petit larceny if there are weaknesses in the case, particularly regarding the proof of value or intent. This is a common goal in plea negotiations to avoid felony consequences.
What are the defenses to a grand larceny charge?
Common defenses include mistaken identity, lack of intent to permanently deprive (e.g., you believed you had permission), mistaken ownership, or challenging the prosecution’s evidence that the property value meets the $1,000 felony threshold. An attorney will investigate all possible defenses.
Do I need a lawyer for a grand larceny charge?
Yes. Grand larceny is a felony with severe, life-altering penalties. The legal process is complex, involving multiple court appearances and strategic decisions. A grand theft charge lawyer Albemarle County protects your rights, challenges the evidence, and works toward 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 except your attorney. Contact a grand larceny lawyer Albemarle County as soon as possible to begin building your defense. The early stages of a case are critical.
Internal Resources
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer Hub
- Criminal Defense Lawyer in Henrico County
- DUI/DWI Lawyer in Albemarle County
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.