Burglary Defense Lawyer New Kent County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Burglary in New Kent County is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-89, carrying up to life imprisonment. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in New Kent County. A burglary defense lawyer New Kent County from our firm can challenge the prosecution’s evidence on intent and unlawful entry. Contact us 24/7 for a case review.
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
Burglary in Virginia is defined as entering a dwelling house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. The statute is Va. Code § 18.2-89. Breaking and entering a dwelling house in the daytime with the same intent is also burglary under § 18.2-90. These are Class 3 felonies, punishable by 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000. If armed with a deadly weapon, the charge becomes statutory burglary while armed, a more severe offense.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the burglary statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-89 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information for New Kent County is available at the New Kent County Combined Courts website.
Local Court Process for Burglary Charges
In New Kent County, a burglary charge begins with an arrest and a bond hearing before a magistrate. The case proceeds to the New Kent County General District Court for a preliminary hearing to determine probable cause. For felony burglary, the case is then certified to the New Kent County Circuit Court for a jury trial. Prosecutors must prove every element, including the specific intent at the moment of entry. A burglary charge defense lawyer New Kent County can file motions to suppress evidence obtained without a proper warrant or through unlawful search and seizure.
- Initial Consultation & Investigation: Contact a burglary defense lawyer New Kent County immediately. We secure police reports, witness statements, and any surveillance footage.
- Preliminary Hearing Strategy: At the General District Court hearing, we challenge the probable cause for the felony charge, potentially getting it reduced or dismissed.
- Circuit Court Motions: File pre-trial motions in Circuit Court to exclude illegally obtained evidence or statements.
- Negotiation & Trial Preparation: Engage in plea negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney while simultaneously preparing a strong trial defense focused on intent and entry.
- Trial or Resolution: Present a compelling defense at a jury trial or secure the best possible plea agreement to minimize penalties.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in New Kent County
In New Kent County, burglary is a Class 3 felony carrying 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000. A breaking and entering defense lawyer New Kent County works to avoid these severe consequences.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Nighttime) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Burglary (Daytime / Breaking & Entering) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Same as above. |
| Statutory Burglary (Armed) | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Mandatory minimum sentences apply. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in 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 record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In New Kent County, we have documented results defending serious felony charges. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of both prosecution tactics and defense strategy.
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 in New Kent County. While every case is unique, our focused defense strategies aim for dismissals, reductions, or not-guilty verdicts. For instance, our team, including experienced attorney Mr. Sris who founded the firm in 1997, has successfully defended against serious property crime charges by challenging evidence and intent.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Burglary Defense Lawyer Near New Kent County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle), accessible via I-64 and Route 33. We are a burglary defense lawyer near New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
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 § 18.2-90) involves entering a dwelling in the daytime with the same intent, or entering any building with intent to commit a misdemeanor. Both are Class 3 felonies.
Can you go to jail for a first-time burglary offense in New Kent County?
Yes. Burglary is a felony with mandatory prison time upon conviction. Virginia sentencing guidelines for a Class 3 felony start at active incarceration. A skilled breaking and entering defense lawyer New Kent County can work to have evidence suppressed or charges reduced, potentially avoiding a conviction and jail.
What are common defenses to a burglary charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent (you entered for a non-criminal purpose), mistaken identity, unlawful search and seizure (suppressing key evidence), consent to enter, and insufficient evidence. A burglary charge defense lawyer New Kent County will investigate all angles, including police procedure and witness credibility.
Should I talk to the police if I’m suspected of burglary?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately request a lawyer. Anything you say can be used to establish intent, a critical element of the burglary charge.
How quickly should I contact a burglary defense lawyer New Kent County?
Immediately. Early intervention allows your attorney to advise you during police interactions, secure evidence, and begin building a defense strategy before the prosecution’s case is solidified. Call (888) 437-7747 for 24/7 assistance.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in nearby Henrico County and with related issues like DUI charges in New Kent County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For the most current advice regarding your specific situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.