Burglary Defense Lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia
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. Our burglary defense lawyer Chesterfield County team builds a strong defense strategy. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
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 severity of the charge and its penalties depend on the specific circumstances and whether a deadly weapon was involved.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see the Virginia burglary statute (Va. Code § 18.2-89). Court information is available at the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Defending a Burglary Charge in Chesterfield County
Prosecutors in Chesterfield County take burglary charges very seriously. A strong defense often hinges on challenging the evidence of intent or unlawful entry. Our team examines police reports, witness statements, and forensic evidence for weaknesses.
If you are charged, here is the typical process in Chesterfield County:
- You will have an initial appearance or bond hearing at the Chesterfield County General District Court.
- A preliminary hearing will be held in General District Court to determine if there is probable cause for the felony charge.
- If the case proceeds, it will be certified to the Chesterfield County Circuit Court for a jury trial.
- Your attorney will file pre-trial motions and engage in discovery and plea negotiations.
- The case will either be resolved through a plea agreement or proceed to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Virginia
In Chesterfield County, burglary is a felony with penalties ranging from five years to life imprisonment, depending on the specific charge and circumstances.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-89) | Class 3 Felony | 5 to 20 years | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record |
| Statutory Burglary (with deadly weapon) | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | Strict parole eligibility |
| Breaking and Entering (Va. Code § 18.2-91) | Class 6 Felony | 1 to 5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Possible probation |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Chesterfield County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have a combined 120+ years of legal experience. We have handled firm-wide 4,739+ cases with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the Commonwealth builds its cases.
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
Our firm has a documented record of results in Chesterfield County. In one case, a charge of “Profane Language Over Public Airway” was found Not Guilty at the Chesterfield County GDC. In another, a “Purchase/Possess Alcohol” charge was Dismissed. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on complex criminal matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with multi-state bar admissions who personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute.
Contact Our Chesterfield County Burglary Defense Lawyer
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Chesterfield County courts. We represent clients from 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. Breaking and entering (Va. Code § 18.2-91) involves entering a building to commit larceny or other felony, regardless of time. The penalties for burglary are more severe.
Can a burglary charge be reduced in Chesterfield County?
It depends on the evidence and your history. An experienced breaking and entering defense lawyer Chesterfield County can negotiate with prosecutors. A reduction to a misdemeanor like trespassing or a lesser felony is sometimes possible, especially for first-time offenders or when evidence of intent is weak.
What should I do if I am arrested for burglary?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. Contact a burglary charge defense lawyer Chesterfield County as soon as possible to begin building your defense and protecting your rights during questioning and bail hearings.
Is burglary a felony in Virginia?
Yes. Burglary is always a felony in Virginia. It is classified as either a Class 2 or Class 3 felony, punishable by a minimum of 5 years and up to life in prison, along with substantial fines and a permanent criminal record.
Do I need a lawyer for a burglary charge?
Absolutely. The consequences of a conviction are severe and lifelong. A specialized burglary defense lawyer Chesterfield County can challenge the prosecution’s evidence, protect your constitutional rights, and work towards the best possible outcome, whether through dismissal, reduction, or a defense at trial.
Related Legal Information
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Chesterfield 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.