Grand Larceny Lawyer Roanoke County — Defending Felony Theft Charges
Grand larceny in Roanoke County is a felony under Va. Code § 18.2-95, defined as theft of property valued at $1,000 or more. It carries 1 to 20 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those facing a grand theft charge in Roanoke County. Our grand larceny lawyer Roanoke County team is available 24/7.
Virginia Grand Larceny Law and Penalties
Last verified: April 2026 | Roanoke County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
In Virginia, grand larceny is a serious felony offense. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-95, defines it as the theft of money, goods, or chattels valued at $1,000 or more. The threshold was raised from $200 to $1,000 in 2018, but the penalties remain severe. Theft from a person, regardless of value, is also grand larceny under § 18.2-95.
Our firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, understands the high stakes of these charges. A conviction creates a permanent felony record, affecting employment, housing, and civil rights.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-95 (Grand Larceny). Court procedures for Roanoke County are handled at the Roanoke County General District Court for preliminary hearings and the Circuit Court for trials.
Defending a Grand Larceny Charge in Roanoke County
The key local procedural fact is that all felony charges, including grand larceny, begin with a preliminary hearing in Roanoke County General District Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney must prove probable cause. A skilled felony theft defense lawyer Roanoke County can challenge the evidence here. If the case proceeds, it moves to Roanoke County Circuit Court for a jury trial.
- Arraignment & Bond Hearing: Your first court date at Roanoke County General District Court (305 East Main St, Salem).
- Preliminary Hearing: The prosecution presents evidence. Your attorney can cross-examine witnesses and argue to dismiss the felony charge.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If bound over, you are formally charged in Roanoke County Circuit Court.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney reviews all evidence and files pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Your lawyer negotiates for a reduction or prepares a vigorous jury trial defense.
- Sentencing (if applicable): If convicted, your attorney advocates for the most favorable sentence under the guidelines.
Potential Penalties for Grand Larceny in Virginia
In Roanoke County, grand larceny 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 $2,500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony | 1-20 years* | Up to $2,500* | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, difficulty finding employment. |
| Grand Larceny from Person | Felony | 2-20 years | Up to $2,500* | None directly | Same as above, often treated more severely. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
*For any grand larceny offense, a jury has the discretion to reduce the punishment to that of a Class 1 misdemeanor: up to 12 months in jail and/or a $2,500 fine (Va. Code § 18.2-95).
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We have handled over firm-wide 4,739 cases with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our approach is built on thorough case analysis and aggressive courtroom advocacy.
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
Our firm has a documented record of achieving favorable results in theft cases across Virginia. In Roanoke County, we have secured outcomes including dismissals and charge reductions for clients. For example, we have successfully argued for the reduction of felony charges to misdemeanors in appropriate cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on complex criminal cases is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with multi-state bar admissions who personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute.
Grand Larceny Lawyer Near Roanoke County
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients in Roanoke County, accessible via I-81. We provide legal support for communities including Salem, Vinton, Cave Spring, Hollins, and Catawba.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Shenandoah/Woodstock Location
505 N Main St, Suite 103
Woodstock, VA 22664
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Grand Larceny Defense FAQs
What is the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny in Virginia?
The value of the stolen property. Petit larceny is theft of items valued under $1,000 and is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Grand larceny involves property worth $1,000 or more and is a felony.
Can a grand larceny charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends. A skilled grand theft charge lawyer Roanoke County can negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction, especially for first-time offenders or if the evidence of value is weak. A jury also has the legal discretion to convict of a misdemeanor.
What are common defenses to a grand larceny charge?
Common defenses include mistaken identity, lack of intent to permanently deprive the owner, claim of right (believing the property was yours), insufficient evidence of value exceeding $1,000, and challenging the legality of how evidence was obtained.
Do I need a lawyer for a grand larceny charge?
Yes. Grand larceny is a felony with potential prison time. A grand larceny lawyer Roanoke County can protect your rights, challenge evidence, negotiate for a better outcome, and provide a defense at trial.
What should I do if I am accused of grand larceny?
Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Contact a felony theft defense lawyer Roanoke County immediately. Preserve any evidence that supports your side of the story and provide your lawyer with all details of the accusation.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.