Burglary Lawyer Alexandria — What Are Your Defense Options?
Burglary in Alexandria is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-90, carrying up to life imprisonment. A burglary lawyer Alexandria from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense against these charges. Our firm has documented results in Alexandria courts. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
Burglary in Virginia is defined by Va. Code § 18.2-90 as entering a dwelling house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. It is a Class 3 felony, punishable by 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 under § 18.2-91, a Class 2 felony with a potential life sentence. The prosecution must prove the unlawful entry and the specific criminal intent beyond a reasonable doubt.
Last verified: April 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, review Va. Code § 18.2-90 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information and procedures for Alexandria can be found at the Alexandria General District Court website.
Defending Burglary Charges in Alexandria Court
In Alexandria General District Court, felony burglary charges begin with a preliminary hearing to determine probable cause. A skilled breaking and entering defense lawyer Alexandria will challenge the evidence at this stage. Prosecutors must establish both entry and intent. Common defense strategies include arguing a lack of intent to commit a crime inside, mistaken identity, or an unlawful search that violated the Fourth Amendment. The court at 520 King Street handles these initial proceedings before a case moves to Circuit Court for trial.
- Initial Consultation: Contact a burglary charge defense lawyer Alexandria immediately after arrest or charge.
- Case Review: Your attorney will obtain police reports, witness statements, and any surveillance evidence.
- Preliminary Hearing: Your lawyer will challenge probable cause at the Alexandria General District Court hearing.
- Discovery & Motions: File motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence before trial.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Work toward a reduction or dismissal, or prepare for a jury trial in Alexandria Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Alexandria
In Alexandria, burglary is a Class 3 felony carrying 5 to 20 years in prison and fines up to $100,000; armed burglary is a Class 2 felony with a potential life sentence.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-90) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Statutory Burglary (Armed) (§ 18.2-91) | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Same as above, with mandatory minimum sentences often applied. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Alexandria Burglary Defense Team
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 track includes 4,739+ documented case results. We understand the high stakes of a felony burglary charge and build defenses that scrutinize every element of the prosecution’s case, from the legality of the investigation to the proof of intent.
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 attorneys actively practice in Alexandria courts. While specific case details are confidential, our approach focuses on achieving the best possible outcome, whether through dismissal, reduction of charges, or favorable trial verdicts. For example, we have successfully defended clients where the intent element of burglary was successfully challenged.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. His experience amending Virginia law demonstrates a deep understanding of legal statutes.
Burglary Defense Lawyer Near Alexandria, VA
Our Arlington location serves clients facing charges at the Alexandria courts (520 King Street). We represent individuals throughout Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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.
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 § 18.2-90) requires entering a dwelling at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. Breaking and entering under § 18.2-91 can involve any building, day or night, with the same intent. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Alexandria can explain which charge applies to your case.
Can a burglary charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends. While burglary is always a felony, negotiations with the Alexandria Commonwealth’s Attorney may sometimes lead to a reduction to a lesser felony or a misdemeanor like trespassing, depending on the facts, evidence, and the defendant’s history. An experienced burglary charge defense lawyer Alexandria is essential for this negotiation.
What are common defenses to a burglary charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent (you entered for another reason), mistaken identity, consent to enter the property, and challenging evidence obtained through an unlawful search or seizure. Your attorney will investigate all possible defenses specific to your situation.
Do I need a lawyer for a burglary charge in Alexandria?
Yes. Burglary is a serious felony with life-altering penalties. The Alexandria Commonwealth’s Attorney vigorously prosecutes these cases. A burglary lawyer Alexandria from our firm can protect your rights, challenge evidence, and work toward minimizing the impact of the charge from the very first court date.
What happens at a preliminary hearing for burglary?
The preliminary hearing in Alexandria General District Court determines if there is enough evidence (probable cause) for the felony charge to proceed to Circuit Court. It is a critical stage where your attorney can cross-examine the prosecution’s witnesses and potentially get the charge dismissed.
Related Reading: For other charges, see our pages on criminal defense in Arlington or DUI defense in Alexandria. Learn more about our firm on our Virginia criminal defense hub.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.