Grand Larceny Lawyer Newport News, VA

A grand larceny accusation in Newport News, Virginia, carries consequences that can alter the course of your life. Under Virginia Code § 18.2-95, taking property valued at $1,000 or more, taking any property directly from another person regardless of value, or taking any firearm regardless of value constitutes grand larceny — a felony offense. A conviction can result in a prison sentence of up to twenty years and a permanent criminal record that follows you into employment, housing, and professional licensing. Cases are brought in the Newport News General District Court for a preliminary hearing and proceed to the Newport News Circuit Court at 2500 Washington Avenue for trial or resolution. Mr. Sris, the Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys represent individuals facing grand larceny charges in Newport News. To request a consultation, call (888) 437-7747.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

What Grand Larceny Means in Newport News, VA

Virginia law classifies grand larceny as a felony. The financial threshold is $1,000, set by a 2020 amendment to Va. Code § 18.2-95. If the value of the allegedly stolen property is less than that amount, the charge is petit larceny, a Class 1 misdemeanor. The distinction matters: a felony record brings more severe collateral consequences than a misdemeanor. Prosecutors in Newport News file grand larceny charges in the Newport News General District Court, where a preliminary hearing is held to determine whether probable cause exists. If the judge finds probable cause, the case is certified to the Newport News Circuit Court for trial or a negotiated disposition.

The Circuit Court handles all felony trials. A grand larceny case can be resolved through a plea agreement under Virginia Supreme Court Rule 3A:8, or it can go to trial before a judge or jury. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for the City of Newport News prosecutes the case. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys appear regularly in the Newport News courts and are familiar with the local procedures, the expectations of the bench, and the approaches taken by the prosecution. Our representation includes examining the alleged value of the property, the identity of the person who took it, and whether law enforcement followed proper procedures.

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

Every grand larceny case begins with a thorough review of the evidence. The firm’s attorneys obtain and examine the charging documents, police reports, witness statements, and any surveillance footage or inventory records that may be in the Commonwealth’s possession. Because the value of the property determines the grade of the offense, a primary focus is whether the Commonwealth can prove the $1,000 threshold beyond a reasonable doubt. If the valuation is weak, the charge may be amended to petit larceny, a misdemeanor.

The firm’s attorneys also examine how the evidence was gathered. If law enforcement conducted a search or seizure in a manner that violated constitutional protections, a motion to suppress may be filed. Throughout the process, the firm discusses with the client whether to seek a dismissal, negotiate a resolution, or take the case to trial. The decision is always the client’s; the firm provides a candid assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the case and the likely range of outcomes if the matter proceeds to trial. The goal is to achieve the most favorable resolution possible under the circumstances. Results may vary. Every case depends on its own facts.

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

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced law since 1997. He is a former prosecutor who brings an understanding of how the other side builds its case. His background includes testifying 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 to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York.

The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys add depth to the grand larceny defense practice. Their collective experience spans decades of courtroom advocacy in Virginia’s General District and Circuit Courts. The firm handles cases from the initial arrest through trial and, when necessary, appeal. Because every attorney appearing on behalf of the firm works as Of Counsel — not as an associate or partner — the office structure ensures that each client’s matter receives focused legal attention. The firm does not guarantee any particular outcome; prior results do not guarantee a similar result.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the penalties for grand larceny in Virginia?

Grand larceny in Virginia is a felony punishable by imprisonment for one to twenty years, or, at the discretion of a jury, confinement in jail for up to twelve months and a fine of up to $2,500. The specific sentence depends on the value of the property, the defendant’s prior criminal record, and the circumstances of the offense. A conviction also creates a permanent felony record that can affect employment, professional licenses, and the right to possess a firearm. For guidance on the potential consequences in your situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

How does a Virginia lawyer defend against grand larceny charges?

Defense strategies may include challenging the valuation of the property, disputing identification evidence, examining the legality of searches and seizures, and presenting mitigating factors during negotiations or sentencing. Because the felony threshold is the statutory amount, showing that the property was worth less than that amount can reduce the charge to a misdemeanor. An experienced defense attorney also reviews whether the accused had the necessary intent to permanently deprive the owner of the property, as larceny requires proof of intent. To discuss the specifics of a case, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

What should I do if I am facing grand larceny charges in Newport News?

If you are accused of grand larceny, you should exercise your right to remain silent, avoid discussing the facts with anyone other than your lawyer, and contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Statements you make to police or to others can be used against you. Preserve any documents, receipts, or messages that may relate to the property in question. The Newport News General District Court will schedule a preliminary hearing, and having counsel present at that hearing is critical. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys at (888) 437-7747.

Where are grand larceny cases heard in Newport News?

Grand larceny cases in Newport News begin with a preliminary hearing in the Newport News General District Court and, if certified, proceed to the Newport News Circuit Court, located at 2500 Washington Avenue, Newport News, VA 23607. The General District Court does not conduct felony trials; its role is to determine whether probable cause exists to send the case to the Circuit Court. The Circuit Court has jurisdiction over all felony trials and guilty-plea proceedings. The firm appears in both courts. To reach our firm, call (888) 437-7747.

Do I need a lawyer for a grand larceny charge in Newport News?

Yes, because a grand larceny conviction carries the possibility of significant prison time and a permanent felony record that can limit future opportunities. A lawyer can evaluate the strength of the Commonwealth’s case, challenge the valuation of the property, and negotiate with the prosecutor. Even if the evidence appears strong, an attorney may be able to identify procedural or constitutional issues that lead to a dismissal or a reduction of the charge. For a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

Virginia Grand Larceny Resources:
Fairfax County Criminal Lawyer |
Fairfax City Criminal Lawyer |
Falls Church Criminal Lawyer |
Prince William County Criminal Lawyer

Official Virginia Primary Sources:
Virginia Code § 18.2-95 (Grand Larceny) |
Newport News Circuit Court

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.