Burglary Lawyer Fauquier County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Burglary in Fauquier County is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-90, punishable by up to life in prison. A burglary lawyer Fauquier County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense. We have 1 documented case result in this locality. Contact us 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
In Virginia, burglary is defined by statute as entering a dwelling house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. The specific elements and penalties are outlined in the Virginia Code.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fauquier County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the burglary statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-90 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information for Fauquier County is available at the Fauquier County General District Court website.
Defending a Burglary Charge in Fauquier County
Fauquier County prosecutors treat burglary charges aggressively. A burglary charge defense lawyer Fauquier County must challenge the evidence of intent and unlawful entry. The Commonwealth must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt. Common defenses include mistaken identity, lack of intent to commit a crime inside, or permission to enter the property.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or charge.
- Your attorney will file for discovery to review all evidence.
- Attend the preliminary hearing in Fauquier County General District Court.
- If the case proceeds, prepare for trial or negotiate a resolution in Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Virginia
In Fauquier County, burglary is a felony with penalties ranging from 5 years to life imprisonment, depending on the circumstances and use of a deadly weapon.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-90) | Class 3 Felony | 5 to 20 years | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights |
| Burglary with Deadly Weapon | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | Same as above, enhanced penalty |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. We focus on building a strong defense strategy from the start. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into how the other side builds a case.
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 firm has documented case results in Fauquier County. In one instance, we secured a favorable amended disposition for a client. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Our approach involves meticulous case review and aggressive advocacy at every stage, from the initial hearing at the Fauquier County General District Court to potential trial.
Our team also includes experienced attorneys like Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, who brings prosecutorial insight to building a defense.
Contact Our Fauquier County Burglary Defense Lawyers
Our Fairfax location serves clients in Fauquier County. We are accessible via I-66, Route 29, and Route 17. If you need a burglary lawyer near Warrenton or a breaking and entering defense lawyer Fauquier County, we can help.
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. 24/7 phone consultations.
We serve the communities of Warrenton, New Baltimore, Bealeton, Marshall, and The Plains.
Frequently Asked Questions: Burglary Charges in Fauquier County
What is the difference between burglary and breaking and entering in Virginia?
Yes, there is a key difference. Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-90) requires entering a dwelling at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. Breaking and entering (Va. Code § 18.2-91) involves entering a building to commit murder, rape, robbery, or arson, or entering with intent to commit larceny, assault, or other felony.
Can a burglary charge be reduced in Fauquier County?
It depends on the evidence, your criminal history, and the specifics of the case. A burglary charge defense lawyer Fauquier County can negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction to a lesser offense like trespassing or unlawful entry, which carry lower penalties. The strength of the prosecution’s evidence is a major factor.
What should I do if I am arrested for burglary in Fauquier County?
First, remain silent and ask for an attorney. Do not discuss the case with anyone. Contact a burglary lawyer Fauquier County immediately. Your attorney will guide you through the process at the Fauquier County General District Court for your initial hearing and advise you on bail and defense strategy.
Is burglary a felony in Virginia?
Yes. Burglary is always a felony in Virginia. It is classified as either a Class 3 felony (5-20 years) or a Class 2 felony (20 years to life) if a deadly weapon is used. This makes securing experienced legal counsel from a burglary lawyer Fauquier County critically important.
What are the defenses to a burglary charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to commit a crime, mistaken identity, alibi, consent to enter the property, or insufficient evidence that the entry was unlawful. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Fauquier County will investigate all angles to challenge the prosecution’s case.
Related Pages: For other legal issues, see our Fairfax County criminal defense lawyer page or our Fauquier County DUI lawyer page. Learn more about our firm on our Virginia criminal defense hub.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.