Grand Larceny Lawyer Georgetown, DC

If you are facing a grand larceny charge in Georgetown, Washington, D.C., the stakes are serious. A conviction for theft in the first degree can result in a prison sentence of up to 10 years and a permanent criminal record. The District’s criminal justice system is unique—local crimes are prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office, not a local district attorney. This dual federal‑local framework makes navigating a criminal case in D.C. Particularly complex. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Concentrates its practice on defending individuals charged with felony theft offenses. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys appear regularly at the D.C. Superior Court at 500 Indiana Avenue NW, the court where all local grand larceny cases are heard. To discuss your situation and learn how we can help, reach our firm at (888) 437‑7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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What Grand Larceny Means in Georgetown

In the District of Columbia, grand larceny is prosecuted as theft in the first degree. Under D.C. Code, a person commits theft in the first degree when they wrongfully obtain or exert unauthorized control over property valued at $1,000 or more, or when the property is taken directly from the person of another. This is the highest level of theft offense, and a conviction carries a potential sentence of up to ten years in prison, along with fines and restitution.

Georgetown’s criminal cases are handled at the D.C. Superior Court, located at 500 Indiana Avenue NW, near Judiciary Square. The courthouse is the hub for all local criminal matters in the District. Georgetown residents—along with those from neighboring communities such as Burleith, Foggy Bottom, and the West End—appear in the Criminal Division for arraignments, status hearings, and trials. Because the U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecutes these cases, the government brings federal resources to bear. At the same time, D.C. Does not use a traditional cash‑bail system; instead, the Pretrial Services Agency assesses release conditions. This hybrid structure requires an attorney who understands both the local court’s procedures and the federal prosecutorial approach. Our firm serves Georgetown and all D.C. Neighborhoods from our Arlington location, just minutes from the courthouse.

How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Grand Larceny Cases

Every grand larceny case begins with a thorough review of the evidence. We examine whether the prosecution can prove the value of the allegedly stolen property meets the $1,000 threshold—a critical element because valuation disputes often provide a basis for reducing the charge to a misdemeanor petit larceny. We scrutinize the chain of custody for any physical evidence, review surveillance footage for completeness, and evaluate the credibility of witness statements. Procedural defenses are also explored: if law enforcement conducted a search or seizure that violated the Fourth Amendment, we file motions to suppress that evidence, which can lead to a dismissal or a significantly weaker prosecution case.

When appropriate, we engage in pretrial negotiations with the Assistant United States Attorney assigned to the matter. The goal is to seek a charge reduction, a deferred disposition, or a resolution that avoids a felony conviction. If the case cannot be resolved, we prepare for trial. Our approach is methodical—we assemble a complete evidentiary record, identify inconsistencies in the government’s case, and present a well‑prepared defense. Throughout the process, we keep clients informed about every development and involve them in strategic decisions. Every case is unique, but our focus remains consistent: working toward the most favorable outcome available under the law and the facts.

About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced criminal defense since 1997. A former prosecutor, he brings insight into how the government builds its cases. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). He is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York, and he concentrates his practice on serious felony defense, including grand larceny and other theft offenses.

Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience to criminal defense. Results may vary. Their courtroom experience spans decades, and they are known for thorough preparation and attention to detail. Every attorney appointed to a grand larceny matter approaches the case with the same commitment: to protect the client’s rights, challenge the government’s evidence, and pursue the trusted resolution. The firm’s Arlington location, a short drive from Georgetown and the D.C. Superior Court, allows for easy access and frequent court appearances.

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder

Admitted in Virginia, Maryland, District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York

Practicing since 1997

Last reviewed: July 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Who prosecutes criminal cases in Washington, D.C.?

Criminal cases in Washington, D.C., including grand larceny, are prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia (USAO‑DC), not a local district attorney. Because D.C. Is a federal district, the U.S. Attorney handles local offenses under the D.C. Code. This means prosecutors have access to federal investigative resources. Cases are heard at the D.C. Superior Court, located at 500 Indiana Avenue NW. The unique prosecutorial structure can affect everything from charging decisions to plea negotiations. An attorney experienced in D.C. Criminal law understands how to navigate this system effectively. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.

Does DC have cash bail?

No, the District of Columbia does not use a traditional cash‑bail system for most offenses. Instead, the Pretrial Services Agency (a federal agency) conducts a risk assessment and makes a release recommendation to the court. Judges then decide on conditions such as personal recognizance, supervised release, or, in some cases, pretrial detention. Most defendants charged with non‑violent felonies are released without posting money. The focus is on community safety and the likelihood of returning to court. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys at (888) 437‑7747.

Can I get my DC criminal record sealed after a grand larceny charge?

Yes, under certain conditions, a D.C. Criminal record may be sealed, even for a felony charge like grand larceny. D.C. Code § 16‑803 allows for the sealing of records after an acquittal, a dismissal, or the completion of a waiting period for some eligible convictions. The waiting period for eligible felony convictions is generally eight years. However, not all convictions qualify; serious felony offenses, including first‑degree theft under certain circumstances, may have limitations. An attorney can review your specific case and advise whether sealing is an option. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.

How long does a criminal case take in D.C.?

The timeline for a grand larceny case in the District varies widely depending on whether the defendant pleads guilty or proceeds to trial. A misdemeanor case might resolve in a few months, but a felony trial can take six to twelve months or longer, factoring in motions, discovery, and court scheduling. The Speedy Trial Act applies to incarcerated defendants, but most felony cases take many months. A routine schedule includes arraignment, preliminary hearing or grand jury, pretrial motions, status conferences, and trial. Delays are common in the D.C. Superior Court’s felony calendar. An experienced defense attorney can provide a realistic estimate based on the current docket.

What are the penalties for grand larceny in D.C.?

Grand larceny, charged as theft in the first degree under D.C. Law, is a felony punishable by up to ten years in prison and substantial fines. In addition to incarceration, a conviction carries a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licensing. Restitution to the alleged victim is also typically ordered. The presence of aggravating factors, such as a prior criminal record or the theft of a particularly high‑value item, may influence the sentence imposed by the judge. Because sentencing is discretionary within the statutory range, legal representation is essential to present mitigating facts and argue for a lesser sentence or alternative disposition. Results may vary.

Do I need a lawyer for a grand larceny charge in Georgetown?

While you are not legally required to hire an attorney, facing a felony grand larceny charge in the District of Columbia without experienced counsel is extremely risky. A conviction can result in years of incarceration and a lasting criminal record. An attorney can challenge the prosecution’s valuation evidence, seek to reduce the charge to a misdemeanor, negotiate a plea agreement, and protect constitutional rights. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will have a prosecutor dedicated to your case; you should have a defense attorney with equal focus. To discuss your case, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.

Primary legal resources:
D.C. Superior Court •
D.C. Code Title 22 (Criminal Offenses)

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case. Results may vary.