Burglary Defense Lawyer in Manassas, Virginia — What Are Your Options?
Burglary in Manassas is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-89, punishable by 5 years to life in prison. A burglary defense lawyer Manassas from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense. Our firm has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Contact us 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
Burglary in Virginia is defined by Va. Code § 18.2-89 as breaking and entering the dwelling house of another in the nighttime with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. The statute is specific and requires the prosecution to prove each element beyond a reasonable doubt. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Manassas can challenge whether the alleged act meets the legal definition, such as whether entry was forced or if the intent existed at the time of entry.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm combines over 120 years of legal experience. We understand that a burglary charge can upend your life, affecting your freedom, employment, and family.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see Va. Code § 18.2-89 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information for Manassas cases is available at the Manassas General District Court website.
Manassas Court Process for Burglary Charges
Burglary cases in Manassas begin with an arrest and an initial appearance at the Manassas General District Court for a bond hearing and a preliminary hearing to determine probable cause. The case then moves to the Manassas Circuit Court for felony indictment and potential jury trial. Prosecutors must prove every element, including the specific intent at the moment of entry. A burglary charge defense lawyer Manassas can file motions to suppress evidence obtained improperly, which can significantly weaken the prosecution’s case.
- Initial Arrest & Bond Hearing: You will be taken before a magistrate. A lawyer can argue for personal recognizance or a reasonable secured bond.
- Preliminary Hearing: At Manassas General District Court, the prosecution must show probable cause. Your attorney can cross-examine witnesses and challenge evidence.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If the case is certified, you will be formally indicted and arraigned in Manassas Circuit Court, where you enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your defense lawyer files motions, reviews all evidence (discovery), and identifies weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Based on the evidence, your attorney will advise on accepting a plea offer or proceeding to a jury trial where the burden of proof is on the state.
- Sentencing (if applicable): If convicted, your lawyer presents mitigating evidence to argue for the most lenient sentence under Virginia’s sentencing guidelines.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Virginia
In Manassas, burglary under Va. Code § 18.2-89 is a Class 3 felony carrying a prison sentence of 5 to 20 years and a fine of up to $100,000. Statutory burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-91) is a Class 4 felony with 2 to 10 years in prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Nighttime, Dwelling) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, firearm restrictions, difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Statutory Burglary | Class 4 Felony | 2 – 10 years | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Same as above; enhanced penalties if armed or prior convictions. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Burglary Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, giving us unique insight into how the other side builds cases. We have a documented track record of favorable outcomes across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C. We approach each case with a focus on the specific facts and evidence, looking for procedural errors, constitutional violations, and weaknesses in the prosecution’s narrative to build the strongest possible defense.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific case results are confidential, our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. These results stem from strategic defense work, including motions to suppress evidence, challenging witness credibility, and negotiating for charge reductions or alternative dispositions. In every case, our goal is to protect your rights and work toward the best possible resolution.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Manassas Defense Representation
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas courts (9311 Lee Avenue). We are accessible via I-66, Route 28, and Route 234. If you need a burglary defense lawyer near Manassas National Battlefield Park or Historic Downtown, we are here to help. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — call (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only. We serve the Manassas community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Manassas, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Manassas carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at Manassas General District Court (9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Manassas, Virginia?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Manassas Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Manassas, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Manassas. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Manassas General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Manassas, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Manassas are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Manassas General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. A burglary defense lawyer Manassas can protect your rights.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Manassas?
Manassas General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Manassas Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
For more information on related legal matters, see our pages on Virginia criminal defense, or our services for Fairfax County and Manassas DUI defense.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.