Grand Larceny Lawyer Clarke County, VA

If you are facing a grand larceny charge in Clarke County, Virginia, the potential consequences—including a felony record and substantial incarceration—demand immediate legal attention. Grand larceny under Virginia law involves the theft of property valued at $1,000 or more, or theft directly from a person regardless of value. Cases are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Clarke County General District Court (for preliminary hearings) and the Clarke County Circuit Court (for felony trials). Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys represent individuals accused of grand larceny in Clarke County. To request a consultation, call (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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What Grand Larceny Means in Clarke County

In Clarke County, grand larceny is a felony offense governed by Va. Code § 18.2‑95. The statute covers the taking of money or goods worth $1,000 or more, theft of any firearm regardless of value, or larceny from the person of another of $5 or more. The offense carries a sentence of one to 20 years in prison, though a jury may impose a lesser jail term of up to 12 months. Because the crime is classified as a felony, a conviction can also affect employment, housing, and civil rights such as voting and firearm possession.

Under Virginia law, grand larceny applies to theft of property valued at $1,000 or more (Va. Code § 18.2‑95).

Source: Va. Code § 18.2‑95, as amended 2020. Virginia Code § 18.2‑95.

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.

Clarke County General District Court, located at 104 North Church Street in Berryville, handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings for the county. Felony jury trials and appeals from the GDC proceed in the Clarke County Circuit Court. The court is part of the Twenty‑sixth Judicial District and is currently presided over by Hon. Amy B. Tisinger. Court sessions run Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. To 4:00 p.m. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. serves clients in Berryville, Boyce, and throughout Clarke County from the firm’s Ashburn Location.

A person accused of grand larceny in Clarke County is typically arrested and brought before a magistrate, who sets bond. For a felony, secured bond is common; release may require posting bail through a bondsman. The defendant then appears at the General District Court for an arraignment and a preliminary hearing, where a judge determines whether there is probable cause to send the case to the Circuit Court. Throughout this process, having counsel who understands local court procedures and the charging statute can significantly affect the case’s direction.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Grand Larceny Cases

When the firm is retained for a grand larceny matter in Clarke County, the first step is a thorough review of the charging documents, the alleged property value, and the circumstances of the arrest. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel examine every element the Commonwealth must prove—including the value of the property and whether the taking was from the person or not. Because the $1,000 threshold can change the charge from a misdemeanor petty larceny to a felony grand larceny, challenging the valuation is often a critical part of the defense.

The firm’s approach includes evaluating the legality of the stop, search, and seizure; scrutinizing witness statements and physical evidence; and exploring whether the case is eligible for pre‑trial diversion or a deferred disposition. In Virginia, plea agreements are negotiated under Rule 3A:8 of the Rules of the Supreme Court of Virginia. The Commonwealth’s Attorney may agree to amend charges or recommend a particular sentence, though the judge is not bound by those recommendations. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel engage in these negotiations while simultaneously preparing for trial, ensuring the client is protected at every stage. The timeline for a felony case in Clarke County varies depending on the court’s calendar and the complexity of the evidence, but the defense team stays actively involved from arrest through resolution.

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

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has been practicing law since 1997. He is a former prosecutor whose experience includes criminal trial work in Virginia courts. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova), a bill that revised Virginia’s equitable distribution statute. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. His practice concentrates on criminal defense, family law, and federal criminal matters.

The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience to every case. They are experienced in handling major state felonies, including grand larceny, throughout Virginia. Results may vary. Collectively, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel have handled cases in the Clarke County courts and understand the local procedures and the expectations of the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office. For a consultation, call (888) 437-7747.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between grand larceny and petit larceny in Clarke County?

The key difference is the value of the property taken: $1,000 or more is grand larceny (a felony), while less than $1,000 is petit larceny (a misdemeanor). Grand larceny also includes theft of any firearm, regardless of value, and theft from the person of $5 or more. In Clarke County, grand larceny cases go through the General District Court for a preliminary hearing and then to Circuit Court if probable cause is found. A felony conviction carries more severe penalties and long‑term consequences than a misdemeanor.

Can grand larceny charges be reduced or dismissed in Clarke County?

Yes, a grand larceny charge may be reduced to a lesser offense or dismissed depending on the facts, evidence, and negotiation with the prosecutor. For example, if the value of the property is borderline or contested, the Commonwealth’s Attorney may agree to amend the charge to petit larceny. Cases can also be dismissed if the evidence was obtained illegally or if the Commonwealth cannot meet its burden. An experienced criminal lawyer can evaluate whether grounds for reduction or dismissal exist.

What should I do if I am arrested for grand larceny in Clarke County?

If you are arrested for grand larceny in Clarke County, remain silent and ask to speak with an attorney as soon as possible. Do not discuss the case with law enforcement or anyone else except your lawyer. The magistrate will set bond, and your attorney can help argue for personal recognizance or a reasonable secured bond. Prompt legal representation is critical because early investigation—such as preserving security footage or locating witnesses—can affect the direction of the case.

Do I need a lawyer for a grand larceny charge in Clarke County?

Yes, you need a lawyer because grand larceny is a felony with potential prison time and a permanent criminal record. A conviction can limit employment opportunities, professional licenses, and even immigration status. In Clarke County, the Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases actively. An attorney who understands the local courts and Virginia’s larceny statutes can challenge the evidence, negotiate with the prosecution, and build a defense tailored to your situation. To discuss your case, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

How does a jury trial work for grand larceny in Clarke County?

In Virginia, a defendant charged with a felony has an absolute right to a jury trial. If you plead not guilty and request a jury, the case is set for trial in the Clarke County Circuit Court. A jury of twelve citizens hears the evidence and must reach a unanimous verdict; if they convict, they also set the sentence within the statutory range of one to 20 years, or they may recommend a jail term of up to 12 months. The judge imposes the sentence, taking the jury’s recommendation into account. Your attorney will prepare motions, select the jury, present evidence, cross‑examine witnesses, and argue on your behalf.

What are the possible penalties for grand larceny in Clarke County, Virginia?

Grand larceny is punishable by imprisonment for one to 20 years under Va. Code § 18.2‑95, or, at a jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail. In addition to incarceration, the court may impose fines and probation. A felony conviction also results in the loss of firearm rights and the right to vote during the term of incarceration. Under Virginia’s expungement statute (§ 19.2‑392.2), a conviction generally cannot be expunged, though an acquittal or dismissal may be eligible. For advice on your potential exposure, consult with an attorney who handles grand larceny defense in Clarke County. Results may vary.

Additional Resources and Related Pages

Virginia Legal Authority

Last reviewed: July 2026

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder

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

Practicing since 1997

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results may vary.

Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.