Burglary Defense Lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia — What Are Your Options?
Burglary in Alexandria is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-89, carrying 5 years to life in prison. A burglary defense lawyer Alexandria from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. is essential to challenge the prosecution’s evidence of unlawful entry and intent. Our firm has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
Burglary in Virginia is defined by Va. Code § 18.2-89 as entering a dwelling house at night with the intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. The statute is strictly interpreted, and the prosecution must prove both the unlawful entry and the specific criminal intent beyond a reasonable doubt. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Alexandria can scrutinize the evidence for weaknesses in these elements.
Last verified: April 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the burglary statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-89 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures for felony cases in Alexandria are handled by the Alexandria Circuit Court.
Local Court Process for a Burglary Charge in Alexandria
An Alexandria burglary charge begins with an arrest and a bond hearing before a magistrate. The case then proceeds to Alexandria General District Court for a preliminary hearing, where a judge determines if there is probable cause to certify the felony to Circuit Court. At the Circuit Court level, the case moves through arraignment, discovery, pre-trial motions, and potentially a jury trial. A burglary charge defense lawyer Alexandria must be prepared to litigate at every stage, from challenging the initial warrant to filing suppression motions.
- Secure Immediate Representation: Contact a defense attorney immediately after arrest to advise you during the police interview and bond hearing.
- Preliminary Hearing Strategy: Your attorney will cross-examine the state’s witnesses at the General District Court hearing to test the strength of the probable cause finding.
- Circuit Court Motions: File pre-trial motions in Alexandria Circuit Court to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on legal deficiencies.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Engage in strategic negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction (e.g., to trespassing) or prepare a vigorous jury trial defense.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Alexandria
In Alexandria, burglary under Va. Code § 18.2-89 is a Class 3 felony punishable by 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000. If the offender is armed with a deadly weapon, the penalty increases to a mandatory minimum of 3 years, up to life imprisonment.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Dwelling at Night) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty obtaining employment/housing. |
| Burglary while Armed | Class 2 Felony | 3 years mandatory min. – Life | Up to $100,000 | Same as above, with enhanced mandatory sentencing. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Alexandria Burglary Defense Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. Mr. Sris, with his background in accounting and information systems, provides a unique advantage in cases involving financial evidence or digital forensics. For your Alexandria burglary case, you will have the direct involvement of experienced counsel.
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
Documented Case Results
While specific case results are confidential, our firm-wide track record demonstrates our commitment to vigorous defense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. These results include dismissals, acquittals, and reductions of serious felonies to lesser offenses. In Alexandria and across Virginia, our team works tirelessly to protect our clients’ rights and futures.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Burglary Defense Lawyer Near Alexandria, VA
Our Arlington location serves clients facing charges at the Alexandria courts. We are accessible to residents of Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Burglary Charges in Alexandria
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 the same intent, or entering with intent to commit misdemeanor assault. The penalties for burglary are generally more severe.
Can a burglary charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends on the facts and the strength of the defense. A skilled burglary defense lawyer Alexandria may negotiate a reduction to a misdemeanor like trespassing (Va. Code § 18.2-119) or unlawful entry if the evidence of intent is weak. Success often hinges on pre-trial motions and negotiation use.
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 of unlawful entry (you had permission to be there), and suppression of evidence obtained through an illegal search. An attorney will analyze police reports and evidence to identify the best defense strategy.
Do I need a lawyer for a burglary charge in Alexandria?
Yes. Burglary is a felony with life-altering penalties. The Alexandria Commonwealth’s Attorney vigorously prosecutes these cases. A burglary charge defense lawyer Alexandria is essential to protect your rights, challenge evidence, and work toward the best possible outcome, whether through dismissal, reduction, or trial.
What court in Alexandria handles burglary cases?
Burglary felonies are ultimately tried in Alexandria Circuit Court. However, the case starts with a preliminary hearing in Alexandria General District Court at 520 King Street to determine if there is enough evidence to send the case to Circuit Court for trial.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. If you are in a neighboring area, see our criminal defense lawyer Arlington page. For related legal issues in Alexandria, consider our Alexandria DUI lawyer or Alexandria family lawyer.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.