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Understanding Virginia Larceny Laws and Criminal Theft Charges

If you’ve been accused of stealing something in Virginia, you may hear the words larceny and theft used almost interchangeably. That can be confusing, especially if you’re trying to understand what you’re actually charged with and what it means for your future.

Here’s the short answer: in Virginia, larceny is the legal term, while theft is a more general word people use in everyday conversation. But that doesn’t mean the details don’t matter. The type of larceny charge, the value of the property, and how the situation happened can all affect penalties and long-term consequences.

How Virginia Law Defines Larceny vs Theft

In Virginia, criminal statutes don’t actually use the word “theft” the way some other states do. Instead, Virginia law relies on larceny to describe most stealing-related offenses.

Larceny generally means taking someone else’s property without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. That intent piece is important. Prosecutors have to show that the person meant to keep the property, not just borrow it or move it temporarily.

The word “theft” is still commonly used by police, the media, and the public. You’ll hear phrases like “theft charge” or “criminal theft,” but when the case gets to court, it’s usually charged as petit larceny or grand larceny under Virginia law.

Types of Theft Charges in Virginia

While larceny is the main legal term, there are several ways theft-related charges can show up in Virginia cases. Some of the most common include:

Shoplifting, which is often charged as larceny even if the item never left the store
Theft of services, such as skipping out on payment for work, lodging, or meals
Employee theft, including taking money, inventory, or company property
Obtaining property by false pretenses, where someone uses lies or deception to get money or goods

Even though these situations may look different, they often fall under the broader category of Virginia larceny laws.

Petit Larceny vs Grand Larceny in Virginia

One of the biggest differences in Virginia theft cases is whether the charge is petit larceny or grand larceny. The distinction mostly comes down to the value of the property and how it was taken.

Petit Larceny in Virginia

Petit larceny is usually charged when the value of the stolen property is under $1,000. It’s a misdemeanor, but that doesn’t mean it’s minor. A conviction can still lead to jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record.

Grand Larceny in Virginia

Grand larceny applies when the value of the property is $1,000 or more, or when certain items are taken regardless of value, such as firearms or vehicles. Grand larceny is a felony and carries much more serious consequences.

Penalties for petit vs grand larceny in Virginia can include:

Petit larceny penalties: Up to 12 months in jail and fines
Grand larceny penalties: Potential prison time, higher fines, and long-term felony consequences
Criminal record impacts: Both can affect employment, housing, and background checks

This is why even a first-time theft charge should be taken seriously.

Why Intent Matters in Larceny Cases

One key part of any larceny case is intent. Prosecutors must show that the accused meant to permanently take the property. If that intent can’t be proven, the charge may not hold up the way the state expects.

For example, misunderstandings, honest mistakes, or situations involving shared property can change how a case is handled. Every detail matters, including how the property was taken, what happened afterward, and what evidence exists.

Common Defenses to Larceny Charges in Virginia

There’s no one-size-fits-all defense, but some common arguments that come up in Virginia larceny cases include:

Lack of intent to permanently deprive the owner of the property
Mistaken identity, especially in shoplifting or employee theft cases
Ownership or permission, where the accused had a right to the property
Insufficient evidence, such as unreliable witnesses or missing proof

The right defense depends heavily on the facts of the case, which is why early legal guidance matters.

Why Larceny Charges Can Follow You

Even misdemeanor theft charges can stick with you long after the case ends. A larceny conviction can show up on background checks and create issues with jobs, housing, school applications, and professional licenses. Felony larceny can make things even harder, especially when it comes to long-term opportunities.

That’s why understanding the difference between larceny and theft in Virginia is more than just legal wording — it directly affects how serious the charge is and what’s at risk.

Have Questions About a Larceny or Theft Charge? Call Inch Law

If you’re dealing with petit larceny, grand larceny, or any criminal theft charge in Virginia, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Laws can be confusing, and every case is different.

Call Inch Law for a free consultation. There’s no cost to call and talk with our team. We’ll listen to what’s going on, explain how Virginia larceny laws apply to your situation, and walk through your options. Together, we can talk through what you’re facing and what steps make sense next.

Larceny and Theft – What’s the Difference in Virgina?