I Got Caught Shoplifting For The First Time And Got Charged With Petit Larceny In VA, What Should I Do?

This may be incredibly stress-inducing for you. Worry not! At American Lawyers Group, we have Criminal Defense Lawyers who specialize and have experience on Petit Larceny charges in Northern Virginia.

We are here to help you during this difficult situation and try our best to guide you to get your case dismissed. Keep reading to learn your options and how you can dismiss your case or reduce your charges.

Petit Larceny in Virginia

It is important to know that in Virginia, a petit larceny charge is when the value of the goods or merchandise that was involved in the offense is less than $1,000. Pursuant to VA Code § 18.2-103., “…when the value of the goods or merchandise involved in the offense is less than $1,000, shall be guilty of petit larceny and, when the value of the goods or merchandise involved in the offense is $1,000 or more, shall be guilty of grand larceny.” 

Below is a table on the punishments of a Petit Larceny conviction in VA:

Code Section	Description	Class	Charges	Penalties
18.2-96	Petit Larceny	Class 1 Misdemeanor	Min: 1 Month in Jail  Max: 12 Months in Jail	Fines: Up to of $2,500    fine

Furthermore, these penalties and charges are subject for change if it is your first time committing a charge of petit larceny in Virginia. 

First-Time Offender Shoplifting in Virginia

In Virginia, if you are a first time offender, judges often consider alternative sentences. It is especially important to find a Criminal Defense Lawyer to help you navigate a plea deal or alternative sentence that will help your case. We have experienced Criminal Defense Lawyers in Virginia that will help you in your case. 

One of the best possible outcomes for a first-time petit larceny charge is a dismissal through a diversion program. In many Virginia courts, first-time shoplifters are often given the opportunity to participate in a diversion program. This program typically involves completing a theft education course, performing community service hours, and staying out of further legal trouble for at least one year. Once these conditions are met, the charge will most likely be dismissed, and you avoid a conviction on your record.

However, don’t stop there. Even if your case is dismissed, the charge itself can still appear on background checks, which can create problems with employment, housing, or school applications. That’s why it’s important to work with our Criminal Defense Lawyers to take the next step: filing for an expungement. Expungement ensures that the charge is removed from public record, giving you a clean slate moving forward. So, if you’re a first-time shoplifter, know that with the right approach, your case can be resolved and your record can be protected.

Contact the American Lawyers Group

If you are in this situation, the experienced Criminal Defense attorneys at American Lawyers Group are ready to help you understand your options and build the best possible defense strategy. Hire us and you will not face this challenge alone! Call us today at (703) 786-8340 to schedule a consultation.