Grand Larceny Lawyer Chesterfield County — Defending Felony Theft Charges
Grand larceny in Chesterfield County is a felony under Va. Code § 18.2-95, defined as theft of property valued at $1,000 or more. A conviction carries 1 to 20 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those accused. If you are facing a grand theft charge, contact a grand larceny lawyer Chesterfield County immediately.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Grand Larceny Law
Grand larceny is a serious felony in Virginia. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-95, defines it as the theft of money, goods, or chattels valued at $1,000 or more. It also includes theft of any firearm regardless of value. This is distinct from petit larceny (theft under $1,000), which is a Class 1 misdemeanor. The $1,000 threshold is critical and often a central point of defense. The Commonwealth must prove the value of the stolen property beyond a reasonable doubt to secure a felony conviction. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, has extensive experience challenging such evidence.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, refer to the official Virginia Code § 18.2-95. Court procedures and filings for Chesterfield County cases are handled through the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Chesterfield County Court Process for Grand Larceny
In Chesterfield County, a grand larceny charge begins with an arrest or summons. The case starts in the Chesterfield County General District Court for a preliminary hearing. At this hearing, the Commonwealth must show probable cause that a felony was committed. If the judge finds probable cause, the case is certified to the Chesterfield County Circuit Court for a potential jury trial. Prosecutors in this jurisdiction routinely seek felony convictions for thefts meeting the $1,000 threshold.
- Arrest/Summons: You will be arrested or receive a summons to appear in Chesterfield County General District Court.
- Preliminary Hearing: A hearing is held in General District Court to determine if there is probable cause for the felony charge.
- Certification to Circuit Court: If probable cause is found, your case is sent to Chesterfield County Circuit Court for trial.
- Arraignment: You will enter a plea of guilty or not guilty in Circuit Court.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will review evidence and file pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: Your case will proceed to a jury trial or be resolved through a negotiated plea agreement.
Penalties for Grand Larceny in Virginia
In Chesterfield County, grand larceny is a felony punishable by 1 to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $2,500, or both. The exact sentence depends on your criminal history and the specifics of the case.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Larceny (Value $1,000+) | Felony | 1 – 20 years | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, difficulty finding employment and housing. |
| Grand Larceny (Firearm, any value) | Felony | 1 – 20 years | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Same as above; mandatory minimum sentences may apply. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes over 4,739 case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to aggressive, client-focused representation. We understand that a grand theft charge lawyer Chesterfield County must be both a skilled negotiator and a prepared litigator.
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 Chesterfield County
Our firm has documented results in Chesterfield County courts. In one case, a charge of “Purchase/Possess Alcohol” was dismissed at the Chesterfield General District Court. In another, a “Profane Language Over Public Airway” charge resulted in a not guilty verdict. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. These outcomes demonstrate our active work and understanding of the local court system. For a grand larceny charge, having a lawyer familiar with the judges and prosecutors in Chesterfield County is a significant advantage.
Grand Larceny Defense Near Chesterfield County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Chesterfield County courts. We represent individuals in Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley. 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Chesterfield County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000.
Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases are heard at Chesterfield County General District Court (9500 Courthouse Road).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Chesterfield County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Chesterfield County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Chesterfield County General District Court.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Chesterfield County?
Chesterfield County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Chesterfield County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
What should I do if I’m accused of grand larceny?
Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Contact a grand larceny lawyer Chesterfield County immediately. Your attorney will secure evidence, challenge the property valuation, and protect your rights throughout the process, from the preliminary hearing to potential trial.
If you need a felony theft defense lawyer Chesterfield County, our team is ready to help. We also assist with related matters; consider our Chesterfield County DUI lawyer or Chesterfield County family law attorney. For more information on criminal defense across Virginia, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page. We also serve neighboring areas like Henrico County.
Last updated: April 2026. The information on this page is for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current guidance.