Felony Theft Lawyer Fairfax — Defending Against Grand Larceny Charges
Felony theft in Fairfax County, known as grand larceny under Va. Code § 18.2-95, is a serious felony offense. If you are accused of stealing property valued at $1,000 or more, you need an experienced felony theft lawyer Fairfax. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 501 documented criminal defense results in Fairfax County.
Virginia Felony Theft Law and Penalties
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
In Virginia, theft is classified based on the value of the property involved. Grand larceny, a felony, is defined by Va. Code § 18.2-95 as the theft of money, goods, or other property valued at $1,000 or more. This statute is the foundation for felony stealing charges in Fairfax. The firm’s founder, a former prosecutor, brings a critical perspective to defending these complex cases.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, review Va. Code § 18.2-95 (official Virginia General Assembly). All felony theft cases in Fairfax County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Fairfax County General District Court for preliminary hearings and the Fairfax County Circuit Court for trials.
Fairfax County Court Process for Felony Theft
Felony theft cases in Fairfax follow a specific path. The case begins with an arrest or summons, followed by an arraignment in General District Court. Here, a judge determines probable cause. If found, the case is certified to the Circuit Court for a jury trial. Prosecutors in Fairfax rigorously pursue grand larceny convictions.
- Initial Court Appearance (Arraignment): You will be formally advised of the felony stealing charge at the Fairfax County General District Court.
- Preliminary Hearing: The Commonwealth must show probable cause that a felony theft occurred. Your attorney can challenge the evidence.
- Grand Jury Indictment: For felony charges, a grand jury in Circuit Court will review the evidence and issue an indictment.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: You will enter a plea of guilty or not guilty in Fairfax County Circuit Court.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your felony theft lawyer Fairfax will file motions to suppress evidence and obtain all discovery from the prosecution.
- Trial or Negotiation: The case proceeds to a jury trial or, if in your best interest, your attorney will negotiate a potential plea agreement.
Penalties for Felony Theft in Virginia
In Fairfax County, grand larceny is a felony punishable by 1 to 20 years in prison, or at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Larceny (Value $1,000+) | Felony (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | 1-20 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, difficulty finding employment and housing. |
| Grand Larceny from a Person | Felony (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | 2-20 years | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Enhanced penalty due to victim presence. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Fairfax Felony Theft Defense Team
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” approach means we use every available resource to defend you. We have a deep understanding of the Fairfax County courts and the strategies used by local prosecutors in felony theft cases.
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
Felony Theft Defense Case Results in Fairfax
Our firm has documented 501 criminal defense results in Fairfax County, with 336 cases dismissed or found not guilty and 143 charges reduced or amended. In one case, a client facing a felony charge of “Obtain Money on False Pretence >= $200.00” in Fairfax County General District Court saw the charge reduced to a misdemeanor with a suspended sentence. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex felony matters. His background in accounting and information systems offers a unique advantage in theft cases involving financial evidence.
Felony Theft Lawyer Near Fairfax County, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fairfax County courts. We are a local felony theft lawyer Fairfax for communities including Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
FAQs: Felony Theft Defense in Fairfax
What is the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny in Virginia?
The difference is the value of the stolen property. Petit larceny is a misdemeanor for property valued under $1,000. Grand larceny is a felony for property valued at $1,000 or more, or for theft of certain items like firearms regardless of value.
Can a grand larceny defense lawyer Fairfax get my felony charge reduced?
It depends on the evidence, your history, and the specifics of the case. A skilled grand larceny defense lawyer Fairfax can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce a felony to a misdemeanor (like petit larceny) or seek alternative dispositions like probation, especially for first-time offenders.
What should I do if I am arrested for felony theft in Fairfax?
First, remain silent and ask for a lawyer. Do not discuss the case with anyone. Contact a felony stealing charge lawyer Fairfax immediately. The sooner an attorney is involved, the better they can protect your rights, secure your release, and begin investigating the allegations against you.
What are the long-term consequences of a felony theft conviction?
A felony conviction creates a permanent criminal record. Consequences include difficulty finding employment, loss of professional licenses, ineligibility for federal student aid, loss of voting rights, and restrictions on firearm ownership. A strong defense is crucial to avoid these outcomes.
How much does a felony theft lawyer in Fairfax cost?
Legal fees depend on the case’s complexity, whether it goes to trial, and the attorney’s experience. Most criminal defense lawyers charge a flat fee or a retainer. We offer payment plans and discuss all fees during your initial consultation.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing theft charges, you may also need information on: Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer. For charges in nearby areas, see our pages for Fairfax City and Prince William County. For other serious charges in Fairfax, consider a Fairfax DUI Lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.