Burglary Lawyer Greene County — Defending Against Breaking and Entering Charges
Burglary in Greene County is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-89, punishable by up to life imprisonment. A burglary charge defense lawyer Greene County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides immediate defense for charges filed at Greene County General District Court. We have documented results defending clients against breaking and entering charges. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
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ToggleVirginia 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, Va. Code § 18.2-89, classifies it as a Class 3 felony, carrying a potential sentence of 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000. Aggravated burglary, involving serious bodily injury, can result in life imprisonment.
Last verified: April 2026 | Greene County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-89 (official Virginia General Assembly)
- Greene County General District Court Website
Defending a Greene County Burglary Case
Prosecutors in Greene County must prove every element of burglary beyond a reasonable doubt. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Greene County challenges the evidence on intent, identification, and the legality of the entry. Common defenses include lack of intent to commit a crime inside, mistaken identity, or an unlawful search that tainted the evidence.
- Initial Consultation & Case Review: Contact a burglary lawyer Greene County immediately after arrest or charge.
- Investigation & Evidence Gathering: Your attorney will obtain police reports, witness statements, and any surveillance footage.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or dismiss charges based on insufficient evidence.
- Negotiation or Trial: Work to have charges reduced or dismissed. If no agreement is reached, prepare for a jury trial in Greene County Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Greene County
In Greene County, a burglary conviction carries a mandatory prison sentence and creates a permanent felony record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-89) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Burglary with Intent to Commit Murder, Rape, or Robbery | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Same as above, with mandatory minimum sentences. |
| Statutory Burglary (breaking and entering with intent) | Class 6 Felony | 1 – 5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Felony record, collateral consequences. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Burglary Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our team brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing serious felony charges. Our approach is direct and focused on the specific details of your case.
Kristen M. Fisher, Of Counsel (Former Prosecutor)
Kristen Fisher is a former Assistant State’s Attorney in Maryland with extensive experience prosecuting and now defending serious criminal cases. Admitted to practice in Virginia and Maryland, she provides vigorous defense in Greene County General District and Circuit Courts. Her firsthand prosecutorial insight is invaluable in constructing defense strategies and negotiating with Commonwealth’s Attorneys.
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 Defense Approach
Our firm has a documented record in Greene County. We focus on building a defense that challenges the prosecution’s case at every stage. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney with a background as a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex felony matters. We examine police procedures, witness credibility, and the element of intent, which is often the weakest link in a burglary case.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Greene County Burglary Charges
Our Fairfax location serves clients in Greene County. We are accessible via Route 29 and Route 33. If you need a burglary lawyer near Greene County, contact us 24/7.
Neighborhoods Served: Stanardsville, Ruckersville.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Burglary Defense in Greene County
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 any building with intent to commit larceny, assault, or other felony, regardless of time. Burglary is generally a more serious charge.
Can a burglary charge be reduced in Greene County?
It depends. A burglary charge defense lawyer Greene County can negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction to a lesser offense like unlawful entry or trespass, depending on the evidence, the defendant’s record, and the circumstances. Success often hinges on challenging the proof of intent to commit a crime inside the dwelling.
What should I do if I am arrested for burglary in Greene County?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. Contact a burglary lawyer Greene County from our firm at (888) 437-7747. We will arrange a consultation to begin building your defense strategy for proceedings at Greene County General District Court.
Is burglary a felony in Virginia?
Yes. Burglary is always a felony in Virginia. It is classified as a Class 3 felony, punishable by 5 to 20 years in prison. Aggravated forms of burglary carry even more severe penalties, including potential life sentences.
How long does a burglary case take in Greene County?
A misdemeanor breaking and entering case in General District Court may resolve in 4-8 weeks. A felony burglary case, which starts in GDC for a preliminary hearing and moves to Circuit Court for trial, can take 3 to 9 months or longer, depending on case complexity and court scheduling.
Related Legal Services in Greene County
If you are facing other charges, we also provide defense for: DUI/DWI in Greene County, Reckless Driving, and General Criminal Defense. For a full overview of our Virginia practice, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.