Grand Larceny Lawyer Albemarle County — Defending Felony Theft Charges
A grand larceny charge in Albemarle County is a felony under Va. Code § 18.2-95, defined as theft of property valued at $1,000 or more. This serious offense carries a potential penalty of 1 to 20 years in prison. If you are facing these charges, you need a dedicated grand larceny lawyer Albemarle County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Virginia Grand Larceny Law and Penalties
In Virginia, grand larceny is a felony theft offense. The specific statute, Va. Code § 18.2-95, defines it as the theft of money, goods, or chattels valued at $1,000 or more. The law also classifies theft of certain items, like firearms, as grand larceny regardless of their value. This is a distinct charge from petit larceny (theft under $1,000), which is a misdemeanor.
Last verified: April 2026 | Albemarle County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-95 (official Virginia General Assembly) – The statute defining grand larceny.
- Albemarle County General District Court – Official court website for case information and procedures.
Local Court Process for a Grand Larceny Charge in Albemarle County
Albemarle County General District Court handles the initial arraignment and preliminary hearing for felony grand larceny charges. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Albemarle County prosecutes these cases. A key local procedural fact is that defendants have an absolute right to a jury trial in Albemarle County Circuit Court for any felony offense. A skilled felony theft defense lawyer Albemarle County can challenge the prosecution’s evidence on valuation and intent at the preliminary hearing stage, which is critical for a grand theft charge.
- Arraignment & Bond Hearing: Your first court date at Albemarle County GDC (350 Park St). The judge will formally read the charge and address bond conditions.
- Preliminary Hearing: The prosecution must show probable cause that a felony was committed. Your attorney can cross-examine witnesses and challenge evidence.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If the case is certified to Circuit Court, you will be arraigned again and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiations: Your lawyer will file motions to suppress evidence and negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a potential reduction or dismissal.
- Trial or Disposition: The case proceeds to a jury trial in Circuit Court or is resolved through a plea agreement.
Potential Penalties for Grand Larceny in Virginia
In Albemarle County, a grand larceny conviction 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 fine of up to $2,500.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Larceny (Value $1,000+) | Felony | 1-20 years (or up to 12 months at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, difficulty finding employment and housing. |
| Grand Larceny (Firearm) | Felony | 1-20 years (or up to 12 months at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Mandatory minimum sentences may apply; severe federal implications possible. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Grand Larceny Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm’s deep experience includes a track record of defending theft charges. We understand that the prosecution’s case often hinges on proving the value of the stolen property exceeded $1,000. We meticulously review evidence, police reports, and witness statements to build a strong defense strategy aimed at getting charges reduced or dismissed.
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 and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented result in Albemarle County: a charge of driving on a suspended license was amended to a non-criminal traffic offense. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. In grand larceny cases, a strategic defense by a seasoned grand theft charge lawyer Albemarle County can focus on challenging the property valuation, proving a lack of intent to permanently deprive the owner, or negotiating for a reduction to a misdemeanor petit larceny charge.
Our secondary attorney on complex criminal matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, which provides an advantage in cases involving financial evidence.
Grand Larceny Defense Lawyer Near Albemarle County
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at the Albemarle County courts in Charlottesville. We are accessible via I-64 and Route 29. We provide representation for clients in Charlottesville, Crozet, Earlysville, Ivy, and North Garden.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Grand Larceny in Albemarle County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Albemarle County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Albemarle 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 heard at Albemarle County General District Court (350 Park Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902). 1 documented results: 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
Can criminal charges be expunged in Albemarle 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 Albemarle County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 1 documented results: 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
How does bail work in Albemarle County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Albemarle County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Albemarle County General District Court. Bond amount set by magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%); public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony)
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Albemarle County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Albemarle County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Albemarle County General District Court (350 Park Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 1 documented results: 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate) Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a Consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Albemarle County?
Albemarle County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Albemarle 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. Albemarle County General District Court (350 Park Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902) is the GDC location.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and with related charges such as DUI in Albemarle County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.