Felony Theft Lawyer Near Me
Being charged with felony theft can put your freedom, your career, and your future at risk. A conviction may lead to years in prison, a permanent criminal record, and lasting damage to your reputation. If you are searching for a felony theft lawyer near me, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. is prepared to help. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, the firm represents people facing serious theft allegations across Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience, and the firm has documented 4,739+ firm-wide results. Results may vary. We examine every detail of the case, challenge the evidence, and work toward favorable outcomes. To request a consultation, call (888) 437-7747 or reach our Fairfax location by appointment. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
Understanding Felony Theft Charges
Felony theft is a serious property crime that involves taking someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it, where the value of the property meets or exceeds the state’s felony threshold. In Virginia, under Va. Code § 18.2-95, theft of property valued at $1,000 or more constitutes grand larceny, a felony. Grand larceny is punishable by imprisonment of one to twenty years, or at the discretion of the jury, up to twelve months in jail. A theft-from-the-person charge (taking directly from another person’s body) of five dollars or more is also grand larceny, even if the property taken has little monetary value.
Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York each have their own statutory frameworks for felony theft, and the classification and punishment vary by state. In many instances, the degree of the offense turns on the value of the property, the method of taking, or the type of property involved. Across every jurisdiction, however, a felony theft conviction brings life-altering consequences—imprisonment, fines, a permanent felony record, loss of certain civil rights, and obstacles to employment, housing, and professional licensing.
The important takeaway is that a felony theft charge is not the same as a final conviction. There are legal defenses, procedural challenges that can weaken the prosecution’s case, and opportunities to negotiate for a reduced charge or alternative disposition. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel investigate every angle—the chain of custody, the valuation of the property, the legality of the stop or search, and the credibility of the evidence—to build a strong, well-prepared defense.
How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Felony Theft Cases
When you contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. about a felony theft matter, the first step is a detailed review of the facts. We listen carefully to understand what happened, then examine the police reports, witness statements, and any physical evidence the prosecution intends to use. Our approach is methodical and grounded in decades of courtroom experience.
Because felony theft often turns on the valuation of the property, we scrutinize the basis for the claimed value. Was the item overvalued to reach the felony threshold? Was the property identification reliable? We also look for procedural violations—such as an unlawful search or seizure—that can lead to the exclusion of critical evidence. Mr. Sris’s background as a former prosecutor gives us insight into the strategies the Commonwealth’s Attorney or other prosecuting authority is likely to employ, which helps us anticipate arguments and prepare a thorough defense. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel negotiate with prosecutors when it is in the client’s interest, and when a trial becomes necessary, we are prepared to challenge the state’s case at every turn.
Each case is unique. For example, a person accused of embezzlement from an employer faces different evidentiary challenges than someone charged with shoplifting an item valued above the felony threshold. We tailor our defense to the specific facts, the jurisdiction in which the charge is pending, and the client’s particular circumstances. Throughout the process, we keep the client informed, explain the options at each stage, and work toward a resolution that minimizes the impact on the client’s future.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has been practicing law since 1997. He is a former prosecutor who has experience on both sides of the courtroom, which gives him a thorough understanding of how criminal charges are built and prosecuted. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). He is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York.
Mr. Sris is supported by a team of Of Counsel attorneys, each of whom brings over a decade of practice experience to the firm. Because no attorney is a firm employee, the Of Counsel structure allows us to match each case with the right skills and jurisdictional knowledge while Mr. Sris maintains direct involvement in case strategy. Our firm has handled thousands of criminal matters since 1997. Results may vary. We cannot guarantee any particular outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered felony theft in Virginia?
In Virginia, felony theft is generally grand larceny: taking property valued at $1,000 or more, or a taking directly from the person of another of $5 or more, or theft of any firearm regardless of value, under Va. Code § 18.2-95. A conviction can result in imprisonment for 1 to 20 years, or at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail. Other states have different thresholds, but across the firm’s practice jurisdictions, felony theft carries serious penalties. If you are unsure whether your charge falls into the felony category, an attorney can review the specifics and explain the potential consequences.
Do I really need a lawyer for a felony theft charge?
Yes—a felony theft charge should not be faced without legal representation. A conviction can lead to incarceration, a lifetime felony record, and lasting damage to your career, education, and housing prospects. An experienced defense attorney can identify procedural errors, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, negotiate for reduced charges, and present mitigating information to the court. The earlier an attorney becomes involved, the more opportunities exist to protect your rights and pursue a favorable outcome.
How can a former prosecutor’s experience benefit my theft defense?
A former prosecutor knows how the state builds its case—what evidence they rely on, which witness testimony they emphasize, and where their case may be vulnerable. Mr. Sris’s experience on the prosecution side gives him insight into the tactics and strategies the Commonwealth’s Attorney or other prosecuting authority is likely to use. This understanding helps him anticipate the prosecution’s moves, spot weaknesses in the evidence, and craft a defense designed to challenge the state’s case at its foundation.
What should I do immediately if I am arrested for felony theft?
Contact an attorney at once and do not discuss the facts of your case with anyone else. Anything you say to law enforcement, jail staff, or even family members can be used against you later. Preserve any documents, receipts, or digital evidence that might be relevant. Ask to speak with an attorney before answering any questions, and do not consent to searches or interviews without counsel present. Early legal guidance can make a critical difference in how the case proceeds.
Does the firm handle felony theft cases in multiple states?
Yes. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents clients in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. If your charge is pending in any of these jurisdictions, the firm can appear on your behalf. For a consultation about a felony theft matter in your area, call (888) 437-7747. We will discuss the specific court where your case is pending and how the local rules and practices may affect your defense.
How do I find the right felony theft lawyer near me?
Look for an attorney with extensive experience in criminal defense, familiarity with the local courts where your case is pending, and a track record of handling theft-related charges. Many people begin their search online, but personal recommendations and thorough consultations are also important. When you speak with an attorney, ask about their experience handling felony theft matters, their approach to defense, and what you should expect as your case moves forward. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. offers consultations to discuss your situation and answer these questions directly.
For more detailed information on criminal defense in specific states, visit our state-specific practice pages: Virginia Criminal Defense, Maryland Criminal Defense, Washington DC Criminal Defense. To speak with an attorney about your felony theft matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Results may vary.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.
