Burglary Lawyer Alexandria — What Are Your Defense Options?
Burglary in Alexandria is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-89, carrying 5 years to life in prison. A burglary lawyer Alexandria from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can challenge the prosecution’s evidence of unlawful entry and intent. Our firm has documented results defending property crime charges in Alexandria courts. Contact us 24/7 for a case review.
Last verified: April 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
Burglary in Virginia is defined by Va. Code § 18.2-89 as entering a dwelling house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. The statute is strictly interpreted, requiring the Commonwealth to prove both the unlawful entry and the specific criminal intent. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Alexandria can scrutinize the evidence for weaknesses in these elements. Conviction is a Class 3 felony, punishable by 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000. If the perpetrator is armed with a deadly weapon, the penalty increases to a mandatory minimum of 20 years.
In Alexandria, a burglary conviction carries a prison sentence of 5 to 20 years and is prosecuted as a felony in Alexandria Circuit Court.
| 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 securing employment/housing. |
| Burglary while Armed | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Same as above, with mandatory minimum sentence. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Court Process for a Burglary Charge in Alexandria
Alexandria General District Court handles the preliminary hearing for felony burglary charges. The Commonwealth’s Attorney must present probable cause that a burglary occurred. A burglary charge defense lawyer Alexandria can cross-examine witnesses and challenge evidence at this stage to seek dismissal. If the case proceeds, it is certified to Alexandria Circuit Court for a jury trial. The court at 520 King Street is where these critical early hearings take place.
- Arraignment & Bond Hearing: You will be formally charged and a bond amount set at Alexandria General District Court.
- Preliminary Hearing: The prosecution presents evidence. Your attorney can argue for dismissal if probable cause is lacking.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If certified, the case moves to Alexandria Circuit Court for a formal plea.
- Discovery & Motions: Your defense attorney reviews all evidence and files pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Your lawyer negotiates with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction (e.g., to trespassing) or prepares for a jury trial.
- Sentencing (if convicted): A judge imposes sentence based on Virginia sentencing guidelines and arguments from your attorney.
Our Alexandria Burglary Defense Approach
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to building a strong defense. We examine every detail, from the legality of the investigation to the specifics of the alleged entry. For a burglary charge, we look at alibi evidence, lack of intent, mistaken identity, and whether the entry was actually unlawful. Our collaborative approach means your case benefits from multiple perspectives.
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 Client Advocacy
While specific Alexandria burglary results are confidential, our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney with a background in accounting and information systems, provides valuable consultation on complex cases. We are committed to vigorous advocacy from the preliminary hearing through trial.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Burglary Defense Lawyer Near Alexandria, VA
Our Arlington location serves clients with cases in Alexandria courts. We represent individuals in Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between burglary and breaking and entering in Virginia?
It depends. 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 a building to commit a misdemeanor. The key distinction is the time (night) and the type of intent. A burglary lawyer Alexandria can analyze which charge applies.
Can a burglary charge be reduced in Alexandria?
Yes. A burglary charge defense lawyer Alexandria may negotiate a reduction to a lesser offense like trespassing (Va. Code § 18.2-119) or unlawful entry. Success depends on case weaknesses, the defendant’s record, and the evidence. Reductions significantly lower potential penalties from felony to misdemeanor levels.
What are common defenses to a burglary charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent (you entered for a non-criminal purpose), mistaken identity, an alibi, consent to enter the property, or insufficient evidence proving you were the person who entered. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Alexandria will investigate all possible defenses based on the specific facts of your case.
Do I need a lawyer for a burglary charge in Alexandria?
Yes. Burglary is a felony with severe prison time. The Alexandria Commonwealth’s Attorney vigorously prosecutes these cases. An experienced burglary lawyer Alexandria protects your rights, challenges evidence, negotiates with prosecutors, and provides representation at trial. The stakes are too high to proceed without counsel.
Where are burglary cases heard in Alexandria?
Felony burglary cases begin with a preliminary hearing at Alexandria General District Court (520 King Street). If the judge finds probable cause, the case is certified to Alexandria Circuit Court for a jury trial. A burglary charge defense lawyer Alexandria will represent you at both court levels.
Useful Resources: Read the official Va. Code § 18.2-89 (Burglary) and visit the Alexandria General District Court website for procedural information.
Related Pages: For other legal matters in Alexandria, see our Alexandria DUI lawyer and criminal defense lawyer in Arlington pages. Learn more about our Virginia criminal defense practice.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.