Burglary Lawyer Chesterfield County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A burglary charge in Chesterfield County is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-89, carrying 5 years to life in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results defending clients at the Chesterfield County General District Court. A burglary charge defense lawyer Chesterfield County from our firm can challenge the prosecution’s evidence on intent and unlawful entry.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
Burglary in Virginia is defined by Va. Code § 18.2-89 as entering a dwelling house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. The statute is strictly construed, meaning the prosecution must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Chesterfield County focuses on these elements: whether the entry was at night, into a dwelling, and with the specific criminal intent required. Burglary is a Class 3 felony, punishable by 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000. If armed with a deadly weapon, it becomes a Class 2 felony (Va. Code § 18.2-90), with a potential life sentence.
- Secure immediate legal representation after arrest or charge.
- Your attorney will file for discovery to obtain all prosecution evidence.
- A motion to suppress may be filed if evidence was obtained illegally.
- Your lawyer will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or dismissal.
- If no plea agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a preliminary hearing in General District Court.
- A felony burglary charge will be certified to Chesterfield County Circuit Court for a jury trial.
External Legal Resources
For the official Virginia statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-89 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court procedures, visit the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Potential Penalties for Burglary Charges
In Chesterfield County, a burglary conviction carries a mandatory prison sentence of 5 to 20 years, with enhanced penalties if a weapon was involved.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-89) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Burglary while Armed (Va. Code § 18.2-90) | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | Same as above, with mandatory minimum sentences. |
| Statutory Burglary (Daytime, non-dwelling) (Va. Code § 18.2-91) | Class 4 Felony | 2 – 10 years | Up to $100,000 | Felony record, though penalties are slightly less severe. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Chesterfield County Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In Chesterfield County, we have secured dismissals and favorable reductions for clients facing serious charges. Our approach is built on a deep understanding of local court procedures and prosecutorial tactics.
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
Our team has achieved documented results in Chesterfield County courts. For example, we have secured “Not Guilty” verdicts on charges like profane language over public airways and dismissals for alcohol-related offenses. While every case is unique, these outcomes demonstrate our commitment to vigorous defense. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Chesterfield County Burglary Defense
Our Richmond location serves clients throughout Chesterfield County. We are familiar with the Chesterfield County General District Court at 9500 Courthouse Road. If you need a burglary lawyer near Chesterfield County, we provide 24/7 phone consultations and in-person meetings by appointment. We serve communities including Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between burglary and breaking and entering in Virginia?
Yes, there is a key difference. Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-89) requires entering a dwelling at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. Breaking and entering (Va. Code § 18.2-91) can involve any building, day or night, with the same intent, and is generally a Class 6 felony. The charges and penalties differ significantly.
Can a burglary charge be reduced in Chesterfield County?
It depends. The Commonwealth’s Attorney may consider reducing a felony burglary to a misdemeanor like trespassing or unlawful entry if the evidence is weak, the defendant has no prior record, or there are mitigating circumstances. An experienced burglary charge defense lawyer Chesterfield County can negotiate based on the specifics of your case.
What are common defenses to a burglary charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent (you entered for a non-criminal purpose), mistaken identity, lack of evidence proving you were the one who entered, an illegal search and seizure that taints the evidence, or that the structure was not a “dwelling house” as defined by law. Each defense requires careful investigation.
Do I need a lawyer for a burglary charge in Chesterfield County?
Yes. Burglary is a serious felony with mandatory prison time upon conviction. The Chesterfield County Commonwealth’s Attorney vigorously prosecutes these cases. A burglary lawyer Chesterfield County can protect your rights, challenge evidence, and work towards the best possible outcome, which could mean dismissal, reduction, or acquittal.
What happens at a preliminary hearing for burglary?
In Chesterfield County General District Court, a preliminary hearing determines if there is probable cause to believe a felony was committed and you committed it. It is not a trial, but a critical stage where your lawyer can cross-examine the state’s witnesses and potentially get the charge dismissed or reduced before it goes to Circuit Court.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby jurisdictions like Henrico County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Chesterfield County DUI Lawyer services.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.