Grand Larceny Lawyer Frederick County, VA

Under Virginia Code § 18.2-95, grand larceny is a felony offense that applies when the value of stolen property is $1,000 or more. A conviction can carry a prison sentence of one to twenty years, or at the discretion of a jury, up to twelve months in jail. Frederick County grand larceny cases proceed through the Frederick/Winchester General District Court for a preliminary hearing before moving to the Frederick County Circuit Court for trial. The firm’s Shenandoah Location, 505 N Main Street, Suite 103, Woodstock, Virginia, serves clients facing these serious charges. Reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

Reviewed by Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder

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

Practicing since 1997

Last reviewed: July 2026

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What Grand Larceny Means in Frederick County

Grand larceny in Virginia is a property crime that turns on a single statutory threshold: the value of the goods or money taken. If the value is $1,000 or more, the offense is a felony under § 18.2-95; below that amount, the same conduct is typically charged as petit larceny, a Class 1 misdemeanor. The felony classification exposes a person to a state prison sentence of one to twenty years, although a jury retains the authority to sentence to up to twelve months in jail instead. The same statute also reaches larceny directly from a person when five dollars or more is taken, and theft of any firearm, regardless of value.

In Frederick County, grand larceny matters are handled in two courts. The Frederick/Winchester General District Court, located at 5 North Kent Street, Winchester, Virginia, holds an initial appearance and conducts a preliminary hearing to determine whether the Commonwealth has probable cause to send the case forward. If the case is certified, it moves to the Frederick County Circuit Court for arraignment and, if not resolved, a jury trial. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Frederick County prosecutes these cases. First-offender programs may be available in some circumstances, and an experienced defense attorney can explore whether a charge can be amended or dismissed before trial.

How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Grand Larceny Cases

Every grand larceny prosecution begins with an allegation of value. The firm’s defense attorneys examine the evidence used to support the claimed dollar amount—receipts, appraisals, witness statements, and police reports—because a discrepancy of even a few dollars can shift a felony charge to a misdemeanor. Challenging the valuation is frequently a critical early step. The attorneys also review how property was taken, whether the accused had any claim of right, and whether law enforcement followed proper procedures during the investigation and arrest.

After a thorough case assessment, the defense team works with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to explore resolutions. Virginia permits plea negotiations under Rule 3A:8 of the Rules of the Supreme Court of Virginia, and it is not uncommon for a felony grand larceny charge to be reduced to a lesser offense if the evidence of value is weak or the accused has a limited record. For eligible first offenders, deferred disposition under Virginia law may allow the charge to be dismissed after a period of probation. If trial is necessary, the firm presents a well-prepared defense in the Frederick County Circuit Court. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys draw on their familiarity with local court procedures and the expectations of the bench to advocate for a favorable resolution.

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

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who has practiced criminal law since 1997. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). His experience includes handling felony matters across Virginia’s trial courts, and he works alongside the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys to serve clients in Frederick County.

Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience to criminal defense matters. Results may vary. The team handles cases ranging from misdemeanor theft to complex felony allegations, drawing on a collective background that includes former prosecutorial and law-enforcement experience. Every client receives focused attention, and the firm’s Shenandoah Location provides convenient access for individuals in Winchester, Stephens City, Middletown, Clear Brook, Gore, and surrounding communities. To discuss a grand larceny charge, contact the firm at (888) 437-7747.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the penalty for grand larceny in Virginia?

Grand larceny in Virginia is a felony punishable by imprisonment for one to twenty years, though a jury may impose a jail term of up to twelve months instead. The specific penalty depends on the value of the property taken, the method of the taking, and the defendant’s criminal history. Under Va. Code § 18.2-95, larceny from a person of $5 or more, theft of property worth $1,000 or more, or theft of any firearm all constitute grand larceny. The court may also impose fines and restitution. For a first offense, deferred disposition or probation may be available in some circumstances. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

Can a grand larceny charge be reduced to petit larceny in Frederick County?

Yes, a grand larceny charge may be reduced to petit larceny if the evidence does not establish that the value of the stolen property meets the $1,000 felony threshold. Defense counsel can challenge the Commonwealth’s valuation evidence and negotiate an amendment to a misdemeanor petit larceny charge under Va. Code § 18.2-96. A reduction to petit larceny significantly lowers the maximum exposure to twelve months in jail and a fine. Prosecutors in Frederick County have discretion to agree to such amendments when the proof of value is weak. A reduced charge also avoids many of the collateral consequences that accompany a felony conviction. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

How does the criminal process work for a grand larceny charge in Frederick County?

A grand larceny charge in Frederick County begins with an arrest and an initial appearance before a magistrate, followed by a preliminary hearing in the Frederick/Winchester General District Court. At the preliminary hearing, the Commonwealth must show probable cause that a felony was committed and that the accused committed it. If probable cause is established, the case is certified to the Frederick County Circuit Court, where the defendant is arraigned and may proceed to a jury trial. Throughout the process, the defense can file motions, negotiate with the prosecutor, and review discovery. The timeline varies by case complexity and the court’s calendar. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.

Do I need a lawyer for a grand larceny charge in Virginia?

Yes, a person charged with grand larceny should obtain experienced legal representation as soon as possible because a felony conviction carries severe penalties and long-term consequences. A felony record can affect employment, housing, professional licenses, and firearm rights. An attorney can evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecution’s case, challenge the valuation of the alleged stolen property, and pursue every available avenue—negotiation, diversion, or trial—to protect the client’s rights. In Frederick County, early engagement with defense counsel can be important because the preliminary hearing occurs relatively quickly after the arrest. To discuss your case, call (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation with Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.

Can a grand larceny conviction be expunged in Virginia?

Generally, a grand larceny conviction cannot be expunged in Virginia because expungement is available only for acquittals, nolle prosequi, or dismissals under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. If the charge was dismissed, the person was found not guilty, or the prosecutor dropped the case, a petition may be filed in the Frederick County Circuit Court to expunge the police and court records. Virginia’s 2021 record-sealing framework may eventually permit sealing of certain convictions, but the implementation timeline is still developing. An attorney can advise on whether a particular outcome qualifies for expungement. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

How is the value of stolen property determined in a Virginia grand larceny case?

The value of stolen property in Virginia is generally measured by its fair market value at the time and place of the theft. For new, retail merchandise, the price tag or a receipt may be used; for used items, age and condition reduce the value. The Commonwealth must present evidence—such as testimony from the owner, receipts, or appraisals—to prove the item was worth $1,000 or more. Defense counsel can challenge the valuation method, argue the item was worth less, or point to gaps in the evidence. If the value is not proven beyond a reasonable doubt, the felony charge must be reduced or dismissed. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.

Virginia Primary Sources
Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) • Frederick/Winchester General District Court

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Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Shenandoah Location, 505 N Main St, Suite 103, Woodstock, VA 22664. By appointment. Call (888) 437-7747.

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