Property Matters

Common Property Crime Charges in Virginia

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Virginia classifies property crimes based on the nature of the offense and the value of the property involved. Common charges include:

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Larceny (Theft)

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Petit Larceny: Theft of property valued at less than $1,000. This is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. 

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Grand Larceny: Theft of property valued at $1,000 or more. This is an unclassified felony, carrying a potential sentence of 1 to 20 years in prison, or, at the court's discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. 

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Shoplifting

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Considered a form of larceny in Virginia, penalties depend on the value of the stolen goods:

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Value under $1,000: Charged as petit larceny.

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Value of $1,000 or more: Charged as grand larceny.

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Trespassing

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General Trespass: Entering or remaining on another's property without permission is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. 

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Trespass with Intent to Damage Property or Interfere with Property Rights: This is a Class 1 misdemeanor with similar penalties. 

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Destruction of Property (Vandalism)

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Property Damage under $1,000: Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.

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Property Damage of $1,000 or more: Class 6 felony, carrying a sentence of 1 to 5 years in prison, or, at the court's discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. 

LAW.LIS.VIRGINIA.GOV

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Burglary

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Standard Burglary: Breaking and entering a dwelling at night with intent to commit a felony or larceny is a Class 3 felony, punishable by 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000. 

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Armed Burglary: If armed with a deadly weapon during the offense, it's a Class 2 felony, punishable by 20 years to life in prison and a fine of up to $100,000. 

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Receiving Stolen Property

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Value under $1,000: Charged as petit larceny.

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Value of $1,000 or more: Charged as grand larceny.

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Penalties mirror those of larceny offenses. 

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Defending Against Property Crime Charges in Virginia and Washington, D.C.

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A property crime accusation doesn't guarantee a conviction. Potential defenses include:

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• Lack of Intent: Demonstrating that there was no intention to commit a crime.
• Mistaken Identity: Challenging the accuracy of witness identifications or evidence.
• Consent: Arguing that you had permission to be on the property or to take the item.
• Violation of Rights: If evidence was obtained unlawfully, it might be inadmissible in court.

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An experienced attorney can assess your case and develop a strategy tailored to your situation.

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The Risks of Self-Representation or Relying on a Public Defender in VA or D.C.

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Edwin Palacio was a public defender—he has seen firsthand how overworked and understaffed public defense offices are.

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• Public defenders handle dozens of cases at once. They often have only minutes to prepare before going to court.
• A plea deal isn’t always the best deal. Without an attorney fighting for you, you could accept a punishment harsher than necessary.
• Criminal charges can follow you forever. Even a misdemeanor can make it hard to get a job, a loan, or an apartment.

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At Palacio Law, PLLC, you get a defense strategy built for your case, not just the fastest solution. We fight to protect your record, your rights, and your future.

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Protect Your Future – Act Now With Palacio Law, PLLC

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A property crime conviction can have lasting effects on your life. Don’t wait to build your defense. Contact Palacio Law, PLLC today for a consultation. We'll review your case, explain your options, and work hard to fight for your rights.