Felony Theft Lawyer Alexandria — What Are Your Defense Options?
A felony theft charge in Alexandria, Virginia, is a serious offense prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-95 (grand larceny) and can result in 1 to 20 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those accused. Our felony theft lawyer Alexandria team understands the local court procedures at Alexandria General District and Circuit Courts.
Last verified: April 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Felony Theft Laws and Penalties
In Virginia, theft becomes a felony, known as grand larceny, when the value of the stolen property or services is $1,000 or more, as defined by Va. Code § 18.2-95. This is a Class 6 felony, punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison, or at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Theft from a person (regardless of value) and theft of certain items like firearms are also felonies. The prosecution must prove you intentionally took property belonging to another with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and professional licenses.
Court Process for Felony Theft in Alexandria
Your case will begin at the Alexandria General District Court for a preliminary hearing. Here, a judge determines if there is probable cause to send the case to the Alexandria Circuit Court for a jury trial. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Alexandria prosecutes these cases. Understanding the specific procedures and tendencies of these courts is critical for building an effective defense strategy.
- Arrest & Initial Appearance: You will be booked and brought before a magistrate for a bond hearing.
- Preliminary Hearing (GDC): A hearing at Alexandria General District Court to establish probable cause for the felony charge.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If bound over, you will be formally charged and enter a plea in Alexandria Circuit Court.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will obtain all evidence and may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or dismissal. If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence based on Virginia’s sentencing guidelines and the specifics of your case.
Potential Penalties for Theft Crimes in Alexandria
In Alexandria, felony theft (grand larceny) is a Class 6 felony carrying 1-5 years in prison, while petit larceny is a Class 1 misdemeanor with up to 12 months in jail.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Class 6 Felony | 1 – 5 years | Up to $2,500 | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, difficulty finding employment. |
| Petit Larceny (Under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Misdemeanor criminal record. |
| Shoplifting | Varies by value | Based on larceny grade | Based on larceny grade | Civil demand letters from stores for damages. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Alexandria Felony Theft Defense Team
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your defense. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper who understand how theft cases are built from both sides. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for our clients. Our approach is direct and focused on the specific details of your Alexandria case, from the police report to the evidence presented in court.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
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 and Client Advocacy
Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. In Alexandria and surrounding jurisdictions, we have successfully defended clients against theft allegations. For example, we have negotiated reductions from felony grand larceny to misdemeanor petit larceny, pursued case dismissals based on lack of evidence or procedural errors, and advocated for alternative sentencing like probation and restitution in appropriate cases. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Felony Theft Defense Lawyer Near Alexandria, VA
Our Arlington location serves clients in Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne. We are accessible for meetings by appointment to discuss your felony stealing charge in Alexandria.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Felony Theft in Alexandria
What makes theft a felony in Virginia?
Yes. Theft is a felony (grand larceny) if the stolen property or services are valued at $1,000 or more, per Va. Code § 18.2-95. Theft of any firearm or theft directly from a person is also a felony, regardless of value.
Should I hire a grand larceny defense lawyer Alexandria for a first offense?
It depends, but it is highly advisable. Even a first-time felony theft charge carries the potential for prison time and creates a permanent record. A skilled grand larceny defense lawyer Alexandria can work to have the charge reduced to a misdemeanor or explore diversion programs that may avoid a conviction altogether.
What are common defenses to a felony stealing charge in Alexandria?
Common defenses include lack of intent to steal (claim of right or mistake), mistaken identity, insufficient evidence of value exceeding $1,000, challenging the legality of a search or seizure, and proving ownership or consent. An experienced felony stealing charge lawyer Alexandria will investigate to identify the strongest defense for your situation.
Can a felony theft charge be reduced in Alexandria?
Yes. Through negotiation with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, a felony theft charge can often be reduced to a misdemeanor petit larceny or a lesser offense. Factors considered include the defendant’s record, the circumstances of the theft, and restitution.
What court will my Alexandria felony theft case be in?
Your case will start with a preliminary hearing at the Alexandria General District Court. If the judge finds probable cause, the case will be bound over for a jury trial at the Alexandria Circuit Court, located at 520 King Street.
Internal Resources: For more on criminal defense, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. For related charges in the area, consider our Arlington Criminal Defense Lawyer page. If you are also facing other legal issues, learn about our Alexandria DUI Lawyer services.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.