Facing Grand Larceny Charges? Key Defenses That Could Protect Your Future
December 8, 2025
Being accused of grand larceny in Virginia is a serious matter with life-changing consequences. In Virginia, grand larceny involves the theft of property valued at $1,000 or more, or certain items regardless of value, such as firearms (Va. Code § 18.2-95). A conviction carries the possibility of years in prison, a permanent felony record, and devastating effects on employment and housing opportunities. But an arrest does not mean guilt is inevitable—there are powerful legal defenses and strategies that an experienced Virginia criminal defense attorney can use to challenge the prosecution’s case and protect your future.
If you are facing grand larceny charges, Rudolphi Law will provide the strategic defense you need—call 703-596-9566 for a confidential consultation.
Lack of Intent to Permanently Deprive
The prosecution in a grand larceny case must prove that you acted with the intent to permanently deprive the rightful owner of their property. Intent is a critical element—simply possessing or moving someone else’s property does not automatically make you guilty of larceny. For instance, if you took something by mistake, believed it was yours, or intended to return it, you may not have committed a crime. This defense has been recognized by Virginia courts where the Supreme Court of Virginia highlighted that the intent to permanently deprive must be clear and unambiguous.
Disputes over ownership, misunderstandings, or even borrowing property without permission can lead to wrongful charges. Your grand larceny lawyer in Fairfax will work to present evidence, such as text messages, emails, or witness testimony, that demonstrates your intent (or lack thereof) at the time of the alleged offense. If the prosecution cannot prove intent beyond a reasonable doubt, acquittal is required by law.
Mistaken Identity and Insufficient Evidence
Grand larceny cases frequently rely on circumstantial evidence, surveillance footage, or witness identifications—all of which are susceptible to error. Eyewitnesses may misidentify a suspect, camera footage may be blurry, or evidence may simply not point clearly to the accused. Under Virginia law, you are presumed innocent unless the prosecution can prove each element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt.
A criminal defense lawyer will scrutinize every piece of evidence, question the reliability of witnesses, and demand strict proof of identification. Even if you were present at the scene, mere proximity is not enough to support a conviction without further proof. When evidence is lacking, your defense can argue for acquittal or charge reduction.
Illegal Search and Seizure
Your constitutional rights are paramount. If law enforcement collected evidence without a valid search warrant or lacked probable cause, your attorney can challenge the admissibility of that evidence. In Virginia, any evidence obtained through an illegal search—without a warrant or a legally recognized exception—must be suppressed and cannot be used against you in court. This defense is especially powerful in theft cases where the prosecution relies on physical items, digital records, or confessions obtained under duress.
Other Potential Defenses–Alibi, Duress, and Entrapment
Depending on the facts, your defense could also include an alibi (proof you were elsewhere at the time), duress (being forced to commit the act under threat), or entrapment (police inducing the crime). Each defense is fact-specific and requires careful investigation and presentation. A criminal lawyer will analyze every angle, develop a tailored defense strategy, and fight for your best possible outcome.
Facing Grand Larceny Allegations? You Need a Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer Now
Grand larceny charges in Virginia are daunting, but you have options—and your best move is to work with an experienced Virginia criminal defense attorney who knows how to challenge every element of the state’s case. Rudolphi Law combines practical trial experience with deep knowledge of criminal law to aggressively protect clients facing grand larceny and related felony charges. Your future, reputation, and freedom are too important to risk—contact us today at 703-596-9566 or reach out online to put a determined advocate in your corner.