Felony Theft Lawyer Chesterfield County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Felony theft in Chesterfield County, Virginia, is a serious crime prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-95 (grand larceny). Theft of property valued at $1,000 or more is a felony, punishable by 1 to 20 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense for those facing felony stealing charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Felony Theft Law
In Virginia, theft offenses are categorized based on the value of the property taken. The critical threshold is $1,000. Theft of property valued below $1,000 is petit larceny, a Class 1 misdemeanor. Theft of property valued at $1,000 or more is grand larceny, a felony. This is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-95. Grand larceny is 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, confinement in jail for not more than twelve months and a fine of not more than $2,500. The prosecution must prove the value of the stolen property met the $1,000 threshold beyond a reasonable doubt.
Official Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-95 (Grand Larceny) – Official Virginia statute.
- Chesterfield County General District Court – Court website for case information.
Chesterfield County Court Process for Felony Theft
Felony theft cases in Chesterfield County begin in the General District Court for a preliminary hearing. The Commonwealth’s Attorney must present 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 jury trial. A felony theft defense lawyer Chesterfield County must be prepared to challenge the evidence at both stages. In Chesterfield, prosecutors rigorously pursue these charges. Early intervention by a defense attorney can be critical.
- Arrest & Initial Appearance: You will be taken before a magistrate for a bond hearing after arrest.
- Preliminary Hearing (GDC): A hearing at Chesterfield County General District Court (9500 Courthouse Road) where the Commonwealth must show probable cause for the felony charge.
- Grand Jury Indictment (Circuit Court): If certified, the case goes to a grand jury in Circuit Court for a formal indictment.
- Arraignment & Plea: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of guilty or not guilty in Circuit Court.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence and reviews all discovery from the prosecution.
- Trial or Resolution: The case proceeds to a jury trial or is resolved through a plea agreement.
Potential Penalties for Felony Theft in Virginia
In Chesterfield County, felony theft (grand larceny) is punishable by 1 to 20 years in prison, or up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine at the court’s discretion.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony | 1-20 years (state prison) or up to 12 months (jail) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, firearm rights, employment difficulties. |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Criminal record. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Chesterfield County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We have a documented record of handling criminal cases in Chesterfield County. Our approach is based on thorough case preparation and understanding local court procedures. We focus on building a strong defense strategy from the start.
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
Our firm has handled numerous criminal cases in the region. In Chesterfield County, we have achieved favorable outcomes for clients. For example, we have secured dismissals for charges such as “Profane Language Over Public Airway” and “Purchase/Possess Alcohol.” In a Fairfax County case involving a felony charge of “Obtain Money on False Pretence >= $200.00,” we negotiated a resolution resulting in a misdemeanor disposition with suspended sentences.
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 valuable in theft cases involving financial evidence.
Felony Theft Defense Near Chesterfield County
Our Richmond location serves clients in Chesterfield County. We are familiar with the Chesterfield County courthouse on Courthouse Road. We represent individuals in Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley.
Available 24/7 for phone consultations. Meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
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.
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.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Chesterfield County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. A felony theft lawyer Chesterfield County can protect your rights from the start.
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.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing theft charges, you may also want to learn about Virginia criminal defense. For representation in nearby areas, see our pages for a criminal defense lawyer in Henrico County or a criminal defense lawyer in Colonial Heights. For other legal needs in Chesterfield County, consider a DUI lawyer or a divorce lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.