Felony Theft Lawyer Virginia Beach — What Are Your Defense Options?
A felony theft charge in Virginia Beach is a serious matter prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-95 (grand larceny). Theft of property valued at $1,000 or more is a felony, punishable by 1 to 20 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for felony theft charges in Virginia Beach.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Felony Theft Law & Penalties
In Virginia, theft offenses are classified as either petit larceny (misdemeanor) or grand larceny (felony) based primarily on the value of the stolen property. Grand larceny, defined under Va. Code § 18.2-95, is the theft of goods valued at $1,000 or more. It is also grand larceny to steal certain items regardless of value, such as firearms or certain livestock. This is a Class 5 or Class 6 felony, carrying a potential prison sentence of 1 to 20 years (or, for a Class 6 felony, up to 12 months in jail at the jury’s discretion) and fines up to $2,500. A conviction creates a permanent felony record, impacting employment, housing, and professional licenses.
- Arrest & Initial Hearing: After arrest, you will have a bond hearing before a magistrate. For felony charges, a secured bond is common.
- Preliminary Hearing: Your case starts in Virginia Beach General District Court for a preliminary hearing to determine if there is probable cause for the felony charge.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If the case proceeds, it is certified to Virginia Beach Circuit Court for arraignment, where you formally enter a plea.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will review all evidence, file motions to suppress evidence, and challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Most cases are resolved through negotiation. If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing is determined by the judge, guided by Virginia’s sentencing guidelines.
Penalties for Theft Crimes in Virginia Beach
In Virginia Beach, felony theft (grand larceny) is a Class 5 or 6 felony carrying 1-20 years in prison, while misdemeanor petit larceny carries up to 12 months in jail.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Class 5/6 Felony | 1-20 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, firearm restrictions |
| Petit Larceny (Under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Criminal record, possible restitution |
| Shoplifting | Varies by value | Based on larceny classification | Based on larceny classification | None directly | Trespass orders from property, civil demand letters |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Virginia Beach Theft Cases
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to building a strong defense against theft charges. We understand the local procedures at the Virginia Beach General District and Circuit Courts. For a grand larceny defense lawyer Virginia Beach, our approach includes scrutinizing evidence, challenging witness identification, and negotiating for reduced charges when appropriate. Our firm has achieved over 4,739 case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. In Virginia Beach, we have documented case results across practice areas.
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
Our defense team also includes experienced attorneys like Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland prosecutor who provides strategic insight into case construction. We focus on the details of your case, from the initial police report to the evidence presented by the Commonwealth.
Local Defense for Virginia Beach Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond Location
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.
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at the Virginia Beach courts, including the Virginia Beach General District Court at 2425 Nimmo Parkway. We represent individuals throughout the Virginia Beach area, including Sandbridge and Oceana. As a felony stealing charge lawyer Virginia Beach, we offer 24/7 phone consultations. Meetings are by appointment only. Contact us for a case evaluation.
Felony Theft Defense FAQs for Virginia Beach
What makes a theft charge a felony in Virginia Beach?
Yes. Theft becomes a felony (grand larceny) when the stolen property is valued at $1,000 or more, or if the item stolen is a firearm regardless of value. This is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-95.
Can a felony theft charge be reduced to a misdemeanor in Virginia Beach?
It depends. Prosecutors may agree to reduce a felony grand larceny charge to misdemeanor petit larceny if the evidence is weak, the value is borderline, or you have no prior record. A skilled felony theft lawyer Virginia Beach can negotiate for a reduction, often as part of a plea agreement.
What are common defenses to a felony theft charge?
Common defenses include mistaken identity, lack of intent to permanently deprive the owner (borrowing), ownership dispute, insufficient evidence of value exceeding $1,000, unlawful search and seizure, or false accusation. Each case requires a detailed review of the evidence by your grand larceny defense lawyer Virginia Beach.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time felony theft charge?
Yes. Even a first-time felony charge carries the risk of prison and a permanent criminal record. The Virginia Beach Commonwealth’s Attorney vigorously prosecutes these cases. An experienced felony stealing charge lawyer Virginia Beach is essential to protect your rights and seek the best possible outcome.
What is the court process for a felony theft case in Virginia Beach?
The process begins with a preliminary hearing in Virginia Beach General District Court. If probable cause is found, the case is certified to Virginia Beach Circuit Court for arraignment, potential plea negotiations, and, if necessary, a jury trial. The entire process can take several months to over a year.
If you are facing theft charges, contact a felony theft lawyer Virginia Beach at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a confidential consultation. We are available 24/7 by phone.