Grand Larceny Lawyer Chesapeake — Defending Felony Theft Charges
Grand larceny in Chesapeake is a felony under Va. Code § 18.2-95, defined as theft of property valued at $1,000 or more. A conviction carries 1 to 20 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense for grand theft charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
In Virginia, grand larceny is a serious felony offense. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-95, sets the threshold at $1,000. Theft of property valued at or above this amount is prosecuted as grand larceny, while theft below $1,000 is petit larceny, a misdemeanor. The charge is not based solely on cash value; it can include the theft of firearms, certain livestock, or items taken directly from a person. Defending against these charges requires immediate action to protect your rights and future.
For the official Virginia statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-95 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Chesapeake General District Court website.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or upon receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will obtain all discovery, including police reports and evidence logs, from the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- We will file pre-trial motions, which may include challenging the legality of a search or seizure or the valuation of the property.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction to petit larceny or a favorable plea agreement, if in your best interest.
- Prepare for and conduct a preliminary hearing in Chesapeake General District Court, where we can challenge probable cause.
- If the case proceeds, prepare a vigorous defense for trial in Chesapeake Circuit Court, where all felony trials are held.
In Chesapeake, a grand larceny conviction is a felony punishable by 1 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $2,500. The exact penalty depends on the specific circumstances and your prior record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Larceny (Value $1,000+) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-20 years (Class 5: 1-10 yrs or up to 12 mos; Class 6: 1-5 yrs) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, difficulty finding employment and housing. |
| Grand Larceny of a Firearm | Felony (Class 6) | 1-5 years (mandatory minimum may apply) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Same as above, with enhanced penalties as a “crime of violence.” |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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 track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the high stakes of a grand theft charge lawyer Chesapeake case and provide focused, strategic defense.
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 team has secured favorable outcomes in theft-related cases. For instance, Of Counsel attorney Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland prosecutor, has successfully negotiated reductions from felony to misdemeanor charges and secured dismissals where evidence was weak. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at Chesapeake courts. We represent individuals in Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier. As a grand larceny lawyer near Chesapeake, we are accessible via I-64 and other major highways. Contact us 24/7 to schedule a confidential consultation about your grand theft charge.
Grand Larceny Defense FAQs in Chesapeake, VA
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Chesapeake, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake General District Court (307 Albemarle Drive, Chesapeake, VA 23322). 1 documented results: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate)
Can criminal charges be expunged in Chesapeake, Virginia?
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 Chesapeake Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 1 documented results: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate)
What makes theft “grand larceny” in Virginia?
Theft becomes grand larceny, a felony, when the value of the stolen property is $1,000 or more. It also includes theft of a firearm regardless of value, or property taken directly from a person. A grand larceny lawyer Chesapeake can scrutinize the prosecution’s valuation evidence, which is often a key defense strategy.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Chesapeake?
Chesapeake General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Chesapeake 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. Chesapeake General District Court (307 Albemarle Drive, Chesapeake, VA 23322) is the GDC location.
Do I need a lawyer for a grand larceny charge?
Yes. A grand theft charge lawyer Chesapeake is essential. Felony convictions carry prison time and create a permanent record. An attorney can challenge evidence, negotiate for reduced charges, and protect your rights at every stage, from the preliminary hearing in General District Court to a potential trial in Circuit Court.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you are facing other charges, our firm provides representation for DUI in Chesapeake and family law matters.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.