Burglary Lawyer Manassas — What Are Your Defense Options?
A burglary charge in Manassas is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-89, carrying up to life imprisonment. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those accused of breaking and entering. Our burglary lawyer Manassas team has extensive experience in the Manassas General District and Circuit Courts. Contact us 24/7 for a consultation by appointment.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
Burglary in Virginia is defined by Va. Code § 18.2-89 as the breaking and entering of a dwelling house at night with the intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. This 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 escalates to statutory burglary while armed under § 18.2-90, a more severe offense. The prosecution must prove each element—breaking, entering, nighttime, and specific criminal intent—beyond a reasonable doubt. A skilled breaking and entering defense lawyer Manassas can challenge the evidence on any of these points.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-89 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and filings for Manassas cases are handled at the Manassas General District Court.
- Secure immediate legal representation after an arrest or charge.
- Your attorney will file for discovery to obtain all police reports, witness statements, and evidence.
- A pre-trial motion may be filed to suppress evidence obtained through an unlawful search or seizure.
- Your lawyer will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, potentially for a reduction to a lesser offense like trespass.
- If the case proceeds to trial in Manassas Circuit Court, your attorney will present a defense challenging the prosecution’s evidence.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Manassas
In Manassas, burglary is a Class 3 felony carrying 5 to 20 years in prison and fines up to $100,000; armed burglary carries even harsher penalties.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-89) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Burglary while Armed (Va. Code § 18.2-90) | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | None directly | Mandatory minimum sentences apply; severe enhancement of penalties. |
| Attempted Burglary | Class 4 Felony | 2 – 10 years | Up to $100,000 | None directly | Still results in a permanent felony conviction. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Manassas Criminal Defense
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 record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the high stakes of a felony burglary charge and the specific procedures of the Manassas courts. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into how the other side builds its case. We are committed to providing a vigorous defense for every client.
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
While we cannot discuss specific case details, our firm’s approach to serious felony charges is full. For example, our attorneys have successfully negotiated reductions from felony burglary charges to misdemeanor trespassing, avoiding prison time for clients. In other instances, we have secured case dismissals by filing motions to suppress critical evidence obtained without a proper warrant. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, drawing on his decades of experience and his unique background in accounting and information systems, which is advantageous in cases involving alleged theft or forensic evidence.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Burglary Defense Lawyer Near Manassas, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas courts (9311 Lee Avenue), accessible via I-66 and Route 28. We are a burglary lawyer near Manassas National Battlefield Park and Historic Downtown. We serve the Manassas community. 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between burglary and robbery in Virginia?
Yes, there is a major difference. Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-89) involves illegally entering a building with intent to commit a crime, often when no one is present. Robbery (§ 18.2-58) is the taking of property from a person through force or intimidation. Burglary is a property crime; robbery is a violent crime against a person.
Can a burglary charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends on the evidence, your criminal history, and the prosecution’s case. A skilled breaking and entering defense lawyer Manassas can often negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Potential reductions include trespassing (Class 1 misdemeanor) or unlawful entry, which carry significantly lower penalties than a felony burglary conviction.
What are common defenses to a burglary charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent (you entered for a non-criminal purpose), mistaken identity, an illegal search that taints the evidence, or permission to enter the property. Your attorney will investigate all angles, including alibi evidence and witness credibility, to build your defense.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time burglary charge?
Yes. Burglary is a felony with life-altering consequences, including a permanent criminal record and potential prison time. The legal process is complex. An experienced burglary charge defense lawyer Manassas is essential to protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and seek the best possible outcome from the start.
What happens at a preliminary hearing for burglary in Manassas?
The preliminary hearing is held in Manassas General District Court. The prosecutor must show probable cause that a burglary occurred and that you likely committed it. It is a critical stage where your attorney can cross-examine witnesses and potentially get the felony charge reduced or dismissed before it goes to Circuit Court for trial.
Internal Resources
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Fairfax County and Prince William County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Manassas DUI Lawyer or Manassas Family Law Lawyer services. Learn more about your attorney on Kristen Fisher’s profile or visit our Fairfax office page.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.