Burglary Lawyer New Kent County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A burglary charge in New Kent County is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-90, carrying 5 years to life in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for breaking and entering charges. Our burglary lawyer New Kent County team has documented results in the New Kent County General District and Circuit Courts. Contact us 24/7 for a consultation by appointment.
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 entering armed with a deadly weapon. The statute is found in Va. Code § 18.2-90. This is distinct from statutory burglary (entering to commit misdemeanors) and breaking and entering other structures. A conviction creates a permanent felony record and carries severe penalties.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the burglary statute, see the official Va. Code § 18.2-90 (Virginia General Assembly). Court information, including forms and procedures, is available at the New Kent County Combined Courts website.
Defending a Burglary Charge in New Kent County
Prosecutors in New Kent County must prove every element of burglary beyond a reasonable doubt. A common defense is challenging the intent to commit a crime at the time of entry. Another is arguing the entry was not unlawful, such as with permission. Evidence from police reports, witness statements, and forensic analysis must be scrutinized. The case begins in New Kent County General District Court for a preliminary hearing before moving to Circuit Court for trial.
- Initial Consultation: Contact a burglary charge defense lawyer New Kent County immediately after arrest or charge.
- Case Review: Your attorney will obtain police reports, witness statements, and evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Preliminary Hearing: In New Kent County General District Court, your lawyer can challenge probable cause and seek to have charges reduced or dismissed.
- Circuit Court Proceedings: If the case proceeds, your attorney will file pre-trial motions, negotiate with prosecutors, and prepare for a jury trial if necessary.
- Sentencing: If a conviction occurs, your lawyer will advocate for the most lenient sentence possible under the circumstances.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Virginia
In New Kent County, burglary is a Class 3 felony punishable by 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000. Statutory burglary is a Class 6 felony (1-5 years or up to 12 months).
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-90) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Statutory Burglary | Class 6 Felony | 1 – 5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Same as above; mandatory minimums may apply if armed. |
| Breaking and Entering (Other Structure) | Class 6 Felony | 1 – 5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Felony record. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in New Kent County Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and a documented record of over firm-wide 4,739 case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the serious nature of a burglary charge and the specific procedures of the New Kent County courts.
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 a documented record of 4 case results in New Kent County: 3 dismissed/not guilty and 1 reduced/amended, representing a 100% favorable outcome rate for those matters. For example, our team, including experienced attorney Mr. Sris, has successfully defended clients against serious property crime charges by challenging evidence and negotiating favorable resolutions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Burglary Lawyer Near New Kent County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle). We are accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 249, serving New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Burglary Charges in New Kent County
What is the difference between burglary and breaking and entering in Virginia?
Yes, there is a key difference. Burglary under Va. Code § 18.2-90 involves entering a dwelling at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. Breaking and entering other structures (like sheds or businesses) or statutory burglary (entering to commit a misdemeanor) are separate, often less severe, charges under different code sections.
Can a burglary charge be reduced in New Kent County?
It depends. A skilled breaking and entering defense lawyer New Kent County can negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to reduce a felony burglary charge to a lesser offense like unlawful entry or trespassing, especially if the evidence of intent is weak or it’s a first offense. This can avoid a felony conviction.
What should I do if I am arrested for burglary in New Kent County?
First, remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone. Then, contact a burglary charge defense lawyer New Kent County as soon as possible. An attorney can protect your rights during questioning, arrange bail, and begin building your defense strategy from the outset.
Is burglary a felony in Virginia?
Yes. Burglary as defined in Va. Code § 18.2-90 is a Class 3 felony, punishable by 5 to 20 years in prison. Even statutory burglary or breaking and entering is typically a Class 6 felony, which still carries a potential prison sentence of 1-5 years.
How long does a burglary case take in New Kent County?
A burglary case can take several months to over a year. It starts with a preliminary hearing in New Kent County General District Court. If bound over, the felony trial occurs in New Kent County Circuit Court. The timeline depends on case complexity, evidence, and court scheduling.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you are facing other charges, our New Kent County DUI Lawyer can help.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.