Grand Larceny Lawyer Louisa County — Defending Felony Theft Charges
Grand larceny in Louisa 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 facing a grand theft charge in Louisa County.
Virginia Grand Larceny Statute & Penalties
Virginia law classifies theft based on the value of the property taken. Grand larceny is a felony, while petit larceny (under $1,000) is a misdemeanor. The specific statute governing grand larceny is Va. Code § 18.2-95. This law states that any person who commits simple larceny of goods valued at $1,000 or more is guilty of grand larceny, punishable by imprisonment in a state correctional facility for not less than one nor more than twenty years, or, in the discretion of the jury or court trying the case without a jury, confinement in jail for not more than twelve months and a fine of not more than $2,500.
Last verified: April 2026 | Louisa County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, refer to the Va. Code § 18.2-95 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information and procedures can be found on the Louisa County General District Court website.
- Initial Consultation: Contact our firm immediately after arrest or receiving a summons. We will review the details of your grand theft charge.
- Case Investigation: Our team will investigate the evidence, including reviewing police reports, surveillance, and witness statements to identify weaknesses.
- Pre-Trial Strategy: We will explore all options, which may include negotiating for a reduction to petit larceny or seeking a dismissal based on procedural or evidentiary issues.
- Court Representation: We will represent you at all hearings in Louisa County General District Court and, if necessary, Louisa County Circuit Court for a jury trial.
Potential Penalties for Grand Larceny in Louisa County
In Louisa County, a grand larceny conviction is a felony carrying a potential prison sentence of 1 to 20 years, though judges and juries have discretion to impose a lesser jail term and fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Larceny (Value $1,000+) | Felony | 1-20 years (or up to 12 months in jail at court’s discretion) | Up to $2,500 | None directly, but can affect professional licenses | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, difficulty finding employment and housing |
| Grand Larceny (Firearm) | Felony | Mandatory minimum sentence applies | Court discretion | Loss of firearm rights | Enhanced penalties under federal law |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Louisa County Theft Cases
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We understand the serious implications of a felony theft charge and the specific procedures of the Louisa County courts. Our approach is to build a defense that challenges the prosecution’s evidence on value, intent, and identity.
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 team, including former prosecutor Kristen Fisher, has secured favorable outcomes for clients facing serious charges. In related criminal defense matters, our firm has documented results including dismissals and charge reductions. Results may vary.
Grand Larceny Defense Near Louisa County, VA
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Louisa County courts. We are accessible via I-64 and Route 33. We provide legal representation for residents of Louisa, Mineral, and Zion Crossroads.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Grand Larceny Defense FAQs for Louisa County
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 and is a felony, carrying significantly harsher penalties including potential state prison time.
Can a grand larceny charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends. An experienced grand theft charge lawyer Louisa County can negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction to petit larceny, especially in cases where the valuation is borderline, it’s a first offense, or there are weaknesses in the evidence. This is a common strategic goal to avoid a felony conviction.
What are common defenses to a grand larceny charge?
Common defenses include challenging the property’s valuation, arguing a lack of intent to permanently deprive the owner (claim of right or mistake), mistaken identity, insufficient evidence, and challenging the legality of searches or seizures that produced evidence.
Do I need a lawyer for a grand larceny charge in Louisa County?
Yes. Grand larceny is a felony with life-altering consequences. The Louisa County Commonwealth’s Attorney will vigorously prosecute these cases. A skilled felony theft defense lawyer Louisa County is essential to protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and work towards the best possible outcome.
Where are grand larceny cases heard in Louisa County?
Felony grand larceny charges begin with a preliminary hearing in Louisa County General District Court. If probable cause is found, the case is certified to the Louisa County Circuit Court for a potential jury trial. A grand larceny lawyer Louisa County will represent you in both courts.
Related Legal Services in Louisa County
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides representation for DUI cases, family law matters, and other Virginia criminal defense issues. For charges in nearby jurisdictions, see our pages for Henrico County and Chesterfield County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.