Burglary Lawyer Madison County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Burglary in Madison County is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-89, punishable by up to life imprisonment. A burglary lawyer Madison County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense. Our firm has 45 total documented case results in Madison County across all practice areas. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
In Virginia, burglary is defined as entering a dwelling house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault, or while armed with a deadly weapon. The specific statute is Va. Code § 18.2-89. This is a Class 3 felony, carrying a potential sentence of 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000. If the perpetrator is armed with a deadly weapon, the charge becomes statutory burglary while armed, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence.
Last verified: April 2026 | Madison County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official Virginia statute, see the Virginia Legislative Information System. Court information and procedures for Madison County can be found at the Madison County Combined Courts website.
Defending a Burglary Charge in Madison County
Defending a burglary charge requires challenging the prosecution’s evidence on every element: whether there was an unlawful entry, if it was a dwelling, if it occurred at night, and the intent to commit another crime. In Madison County General District Court, felony charges begin with a preliminary hearing to determine probable cause before moving to Circuit Court for trial.
- Case Evaluation: Immediately after arrest or charge, contact a defense attorney to review the warrant, police reports, and evidence.
- Preliminary Hearing: In Madison County General District Court, your attorney can cross-examine the state’s witnesses to challenge probable cause for the felony charge.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If the case is certified to Circuit Court, you will be formally arraigned and enter a plea.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will file for discovery of all evidence and may file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or dismiss charges.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Based on the strength of the evidence, your attorney will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or proceed to a jury trial in Madison County Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Madison County
In Madison County, burglary is a Class 3 felony carrying 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000. Aggravating factors like being armed increase the severity.
| 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. |
| Statutory Burglary (Armed) | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life (mandatory min.) | Up to $100,000 | Same as above, with significantly longer mandatory prison time. |
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 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of 4,739+ case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of both prosecution tactics and defense strategies.
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 45 total documented case results in Madison County across all practice areas, with a 100% favorable outcome rate for those matters. For example, our attorneys have successfully achieved dismissals (nolle prosequi) for charges like destruction of property and have amended serious charges like driving on a suspended license to non-criminal violations. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our team, including former prosecutor Kristen Fisher, understands how the Commonwealth’s Attorney builds a case. This insight is critical for a breaking and entering defense lawyer Madison County to develop an effective counter-strategy.
Contact Our Madison County Burglary Defense Lawyers
Our Fairfax location serves clients in Madison County. We are approximately an hour’s drive from the Madison County Courthouse, accessible via Route 29. We are a burglary lawyer near Madison, VA, serving the community and surrounding areas.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions: Burglary Charges in Madison County
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) involves entering a building (not necessarily a dwelling) with intent to commit larceny, assault, or other felony, and can be charged for daytime entries.
Can a burglary charge be reduced in Madison County?
It depends on the evidence and your history. A skilled burglary charge defense lawyer Madison County may negotiate to reduce a felony burglary to a misdemeanor like trespassing or unlawful entry, especially for first-time offenders or if the evidence of intent is weak. Outcomes depend on the specific facts.
What should I do if I am arrested for burglary in Madison County?
First, remain silent and ask for an attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone. Contact a burglary lawyer Madison County as soon as possible. Your attorney will advise you on the bail process and begin building your defense strategy for your initial hearing at Madison County General District Court.
Is burglary a felony that requires prison time in Virginia?
Yes. Burglary is a Class 3 felony with a sentencing range of 5 to 20 years in prison. Judges have discretion within that range, but state sentencing guidelines often recommend active incarceration. A strong defense is essential to seek an alternative outcome.
Do I need a lawyer for a burglary preliminary hearing in Madison County?
Yes. The preliminary hearing at Madison County General District Court is a critical stage where your attorney can cross-examine the state’s witnesses and potentially get the felony charge dismissed for lack of probable cause. Having a breaking and entering defense lawyer Madison County present is vital.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist with related matters in nearby areas like Fairfax County criminal defense. If you are facing other charges, explore our Madison County DUI defense services.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.