Burglary Defense Lawyer Madison County — Protecting Your Rights
A burglary charge in Madison County is a serious felony under Virginia law, carrying severe penalties. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those accused of breaking and entering. Our burglary defense lawyer Madison County team understands the local court procedures at the Madison County General District Court. We offer 24/7 consultations to discuss your case.
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
In Virginia, burglary is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-89. The statute makes it a felony to enter a dwelling house at night with the intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. The law also covers entering a dwelling house in the daytime with the same intent, or breaking and entering any other building with intent to commit larceny, assault, or any other felony.
Last verified: April 2026 | Madison County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997, our firm has extensive experience with complex criminal cases. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on serious charges like burglary.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the burglary statute, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-89 (official Virginia General Assembly website). Court information for Madison County can be found at the Madison County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for Burglary Charges in Madison County
Burglary cases in Madison County begin with an arrest and an initial appearance at the Madison County General District Court located at 1 Main Street. For a felony burglary charge, the General District Court will hold a preliminary hearing to determine if there is probable cause to send the case to the Madison County Circuit Court for a jury trial. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Madison County prosecutes these cases. A skilled breaking and entering defense lawyer Madison County can challenge the evidence at the preliminary hearing stage.
- Arrest and Initial Appearance: You will be taken before a magistrate for a bond hearing.
- Preliminary Hearing: In General District Court, the prosecution presents evidence to establish probable cause for the felony burglary charge.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If the case is certified, you will be formally charged in Circuit Court and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence and reviews all prosecution evidence.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Your lawyer negotiates with the prosecutor for a reduction or dismissal, or prepares for a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing occurs in Circuit Court, where arguments for leniency are presented.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Virginia
In Madison County, burglary is classified as a felony with a potential prison sentence of 5 years to life, depending on the specific circumstances and use of a deadly weapon.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-89) | Class 3 Felony | 5 to 20 years | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights |
| Burglary with Deadly Weapon | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | Mandatory minimum sentences apply |
| Statutory Burglary (other building) | Class 6 Felony | 1 to 5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Jury can reduce to misdemeanor |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have a combined 120+ years of legal experience. We have documented over firm-wide 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our approach is “Advocacy Without Borders,” providing dedicated representation. For a burglary charge defense lawyer Madison County residents can rely on, our team brings direct knowledge of local prosecutors and judges.
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
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in criminal cases. In Madison County, we have 45 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 100% favorable outcome rate. For example, we have successfully had charges like reckless driving amended to improper driving and property destruction charges dismissed via nolle prosequi.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on complex criminal matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor. His strategic insight is invaluable for serious felony defenses.
Contact Our Madison County Burglary Defense Lawyers
Our Fairfax location serves clients in Madison County. We are approximately an hour’s drive from the Madison County Courthouse, accessible via Route 29. If you are searching for a burglary defense lawyer near Madison, VA, we are here to help. We serve the communities of Madison and surrounding areas.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for burglary in Madison County, Virginia?
Burglary is a felony. A Class 3 felony burglary carries 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000. If a deadly weapon is involved, it becomes a Class 2 felony with 20 years to life. Statutory burglary of a non-dwelling is a Class 6 felony (1-5 years).
Can I get a burglary charge reduced in Madison County?
It depends. An experienced burglary charge defense lawyer Madison County can negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Reductions may be possible to a lesser felony like unlawful entry or a misdemeanor, depending on the evidence, your history, and the specifics of the alleged act.
What’s the difference between burglary and breaking and entering in Virginia?
Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-89) typically involves entering a dwelling at night with criminal intent. “Breaking and entering” under other statutes (like § 18.2-91) often applies to other buildings. Both are felonies, but penalties differ. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Madison County can analyze which statute applies to your case.
Do I need a lawyer for a burglary charge in Madison County?
Yes. Burglary is a serious felony with long-term consequences. The prosecution must be challenged on the evidence of intent and entry. A burglary defense lawyer Madison County will protect your rights, challenge evidence, and work toward the best possible outcome.
Where will my burglary case be heard in Madison County?
Your case will start with a preliminary hearing at the Madison County General District Court (1 Main Street). If certified, the felony trial will be held before a jury at the Madison County Circuit Court. You have an absolute right to a jury trial for a felony charge.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist with related issues in Madison County like DUI defense and family law. Learn more about our team on our attorney profiles.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current legal guidance.