Grand Larceny Lawyer in Goochland County, Virginia — Felony Theft Defense
Grand larceny in Goochland County 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 a strong defense for felony theft charges.
Virginia Grand Larceny Law & Penalties
Grand larceny is a serious felony in Virginia. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-95, defines it as the theft of money, goods, or chattels valued at $1,000 or more. This threshold is critical—theft under $1,000 is petit larceny, a misdemeanor. The value alleged by the Commonwealth’s Attorney determines the charge’s severity and potential penalties.
Last verified: April 2026 | Goochland County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We understand the high stakes of a felony theft charge and the lasting impact a conviction can have on your record, employment, and future.
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-95 (official Virginia General Assembly) – Defines grand larceny.
- Goochland County Courts – Official court website for procedures and information.
Defending a Grand Larceny Charge in Goochland County
In Goochland County, grand larceny cases begin with an arrest or summons. The case will start in Goochland County General District Court for a preliminary hearing to determine if there is probable cause. If bound over, the felony trial occurs in Goochland County Circuit Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney must prove you intentionally took property belonging to another, valued at $1,000+, without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner.
- Initial Consultation: Contact our grand larceny lawyer Goochland County defense team immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Case Review & Investigation: We obtain discovery, review evidence (like video or receipts), and independently assess the property’s value.
- Preliminary Hearing Strategy: We represent you at the General District Court hearing, challenging probable cause where possible.
- Negotiation & Motions: We negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction (e.g., to petit larceny) or explore diversion programs.
- Trial Preparation: If no favorable resolution is reached, we prepare a vigorous defense for trial in Circuit Court.
- Post-Trial & Record Relief: We advise on appeals and future expungement eligibility if the case is dismissed.
Grand Larceny Penalties in Virginia
In Goochland County, grand larceny is a felony punishable by 1 to 20 years in prison, though sentences can vary widely based on criminal history and circumstances.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Larceny (Value $1,000+) | Felony | 1 – 20 years | Up to $2,500 | Permanent felony record, difficulty finding employment, loss of professional licenses, ineligibility for certain government benefits. |
| Grand Larceny (Firearm) | Felony | Mandatory minimum sentence applies | Court discretion | Enhanced penalties under federal and state law. |
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 and has a documented record of handling complex criminal cases. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into how the other side builds cases. We have secured favorable outcomes for clients across Virginia, including case reductions and dismissals. Our grand theft charge lawyer Goochland County residents rely on understands the local court procedures and prosecutors.
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 & Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable results in criminal cases. While every case is unique, our approach is thorough and aggressive. For instance, our team, including experienced attorneys like Mr. Sris and Kristen Fisher, has successfully negotiated reductions of felony charges to misdemeanors and secured dismissals through pre-trial motions and evidentiary challenges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Grand Larceny Lawyer Near Goochland County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Goochland County courts. We are accessible via I-64, Route 6, and Route 250. We serve the communities of Goochland, Crozier, and Oilville.
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 — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Grand Larceny Defense FAQs
What is the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny in Virginia?
The key difference is the value of the stolen property. Petit larceny involves property valued under $1,000 and is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Grand larceny involves property valued at $1,000 or more and is a felony. The charge significantly impacts potential penalties and long-term consequences.
Can a grand larceny charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends. A skilled felony theft defense lawyer Goochland County can often negotiate a reduction if the evidence for the $1,000 valuation is weak. This may involve challenging appraisals, receipts, or witness estimates. A reduction to petit larceny avoids a felony conviction.
What are the defenses to a grand larceny charge?
Common defenses include mistaken identity, lack of intent to permanently deprive (e.g., you believed you had permission), mistaken valuation of the property (arguing it’s worth less than $1,000), or insufficient evidence. An attorney will investigate to find the strongest defense for your situation.
Do I need a lawyer for a grand larceny charge?
Yes. Grand larceny is a felony with the potential for years in prison. The legal process is complex, and the Commonwealth’s Attorney will be aggressively prosecuting the case. A lawyer protects your rights, challenges evidence, and works toward the best possible outcome.
What court handles grand larceny cases in Goochland County?
Grand larceny cases begin with a preliminary hearing in Goochland County General District Court. If the judge finds probable cause, the case is “bound over” for a jury trial in Goochland County Circuit Court, located at 2938 River Road West, Bldg G, Goochland, VA 23063.
Internal Resources
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer Hub
- Criminal Defense Lawyer in Henrico County
- Goochland County DUI Lawyer
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.