Felony Theft Lawyer Roanoke County — Defending Grand Larceny & Felony Stealing Charges
A felony theft charge in Roanoke County is a serious offense prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-95 (grand larceny) and can result in 1-20 years in prison. As a felony theft lawyer Roanoke County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for clients facing grand larceny and felony stealing charges.
Virginia Felony Theft Laws & Penalties
In Virginia, theft is classified as either petit larceny (misdemeanor) or grand larceny (felony) based primarily on the value of the property stolen. The threshold for felony theft, or grand larceny, is $1,000 or more. However, stealing certain items—like firearms—is automatically grand larceny regardless of value under Va. Code § 18.2-95. A conviction for grand larceny is a felony punishable by 1 to 20 years in prison, or, in the discretion of the jury or court, confinement in jail for up to 12 months and a fine of up to $2,500.
Last verified: April 2026 | Roanoke County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-95 (Grand Larceny) — Official Virginia statute defining felony theft.
- Roanoke County General District Court — Official court website for case information and procedures.
Facing a Felony Theft Charge in Roanoke County
If you are charged with felony theft in Roanoke County, your case will begin at the Roanoke County General District Court for a preliminary hearing. The Commonwealth’s Attorney must prove probable cause that a felony was committed. You have the right to have this hearing, and a skilled felony theft lawyer Roanoke County can challenge the evidence at this stage. If the judge finds probable cause, your case is certified to the Roanoke County Circuit Court for a potential jury trial.
- Arraignment & Bond Hearing: Your first court appearance will be in General District Court. The judge will formally read the charges and address bond conditions.
- Preliminary Hearing: The prosecution presents evidence to establish probable cause for the felony charge. Your attorney can cross-examine witnesses and argue for dismissal.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If the case is certified, you will be arraigned again in Circuit Court and enter a plea.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will review all evidence, file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, and negotiate with the prosecutor.
- Trial or Plea: The case will proceed to a jury trial in Circuit Court or be resolved through a negotiated plea agreement.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the Circuit Court judge will impose a sentence within the statutory range, considering guidelines and arguments from your lawyer.
Potential Penalties for Felony Theft in Virginia
In Roanoke County, a grand larceny conviction is a felony carrying 1 to 20 years in prison, though a jury can opt for up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Larceny (Value ≥ $1,000 or firearm) | Felony | 1-20 years (or up to 12 months in jail at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, difficulty finding employment and housing. |
| Petit Larceny (Value < $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Misdemeanor criminal record. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of handling complex criminal matters, including those involving theft and property crimes. Our approach is built on thorough case investigation and strategic defense planning.
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 & Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable outcomes for clients. In related criminal matters, our team has successfully negotiated reductions from felony to misdemeanor charges and secured dismissals where the evidence was weak. For instance, in a Fairfax County case involving a felony obtaining money by false pretenses charge, our attorneys negotiated a resolution resulting in a misdemeanor disposition with suspended jail time.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our grand larceny defense lawyer Roanoke County team, including experienced attorney Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland prosecutor, works diligently to protect your rights and future.
Contact Our Roanoke County Felony Theft Lawyers
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients at Roanoke County courts. We are a felony stealing charge lawyer Roanoke County resource for Salem, Vinton, Cave Spring, Hollins, and Catawba.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Shenandoah/Woodstock
505 N Main St #103, Woodstock, VA 22664, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Felony Theft Defense FAQs
What is the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny in Virginia?
The key difference is the value of the stolen property. Petit larceny is a misdemeanor for theft of items valued under $1,000. Grand larceny is a felony for theft of $1,000 or more, or for stealing a firearm regardless of its value.
Can a felony theft charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends. A skilled felony theft lawyer Roanoke County can often negotiate a reduction, especially if the value is close to the $1,000 threshold, if there are evidentiary issues, or if the defendant has a clean record and agrees to restitution. This is a common defense strategy to avoid a felony conviction.
What should I do if I am accused of felony theft?
Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Politely invoke your right to remain silent and your right to a lawyer. Contact a felony theft lawyer Roanoke County immediately. The early stages of an investigation are critical for building a defense and protecting your rights.
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 possession. A strong defense is essential to mitigate these lifelong impacts.
Do I need a lawyer for a felony theft charge?
Yes. Facing a felony charge without an attorney is extremely risky. The potential prison time and permanent consequences are too severe. A grand larceny defense lawyer Roanoke County can handle the complex legal process, challenge evidence, and work toward the best possible outcome.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Shenandoah County and with related issues such as DUI charges in Roanoke County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws can change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.