Burglary Defense Lawyer Henrico County — What Are Your Legal Options?
Burglary in Henrico County is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-89, carrying 5 years to life. A burglary defense lawyer Henrico County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. is critical. We have 8 documented results in Henrico County: 7 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended. Contact us 24/7.
Last verified: April 2026 | Henrico County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
Burglary in Virginia is defined by Va. Code § 18.2-89 as breaking and entering a dwelling house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. This 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 charge escalates to statutory burglary while armed under § 18.2-90, a more severe felony. The related charge of breaking and entering under § 18.2-91 involves entering a building other than a dwelling with criminal intent and is also a felony. The distinction between night and day is critical, as is the nature of the structure entered. A burglary charge defense lawyer Henrico County must analyze the specific facts, including intent, time of entry, and type of property, to build an effective defense.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia’s burglary statutes, refer to the Va. Code § 18.2-89 (official Virginia General Assembly website). Court procedures and filings for Henrico County are handled through the Henrico County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for Burglary Charges in Henrico
Burglary cases in Henrico County begin with an arrest and an initial appearance at the Henrico County General District Court for a bond hearing and to set a date for a preliminary hearing. The Commonwealth’s Attorney must prove probable cause that a burglary occurred. Given the severe penalties, securing a breaking and entering defense lawyer Henrico County immediately is essential. The local prosecutors are experienced, and the court at 4301 East Parham Road handles a high volume of serious cases.
- Secure representation from a burglary defense lawyer Henrico County immediately after arrest.
- Attend the bond hearing at Henrico County General District Court to argue for release.
- Review all discovery from the Commonwealth’s Attorney with your attorney.
- File pre-trial motions to challenge evidence or procedural errors.
- Attend the preliminary hearing where the judge decides if there is probable cause to certify the felony to Circuit Court.
- If certified, prepare for arraignment and trial in Henrico County Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Virginia
In Henrico County, burglary is a Class 3 felony carrying 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000.
| 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. |
| Statutory Burglary (Armed) (§ 18.2-90) | More Severe Felony | Mandatory minimums apply | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Same as above, with enhanced penalties. |
| Breaking and Entering (§ 18.2-91) | Felony | 1 – 20 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Permanent felony record. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Burglary Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to complex criminal defense. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the high stakes of a felony burglary charge and provide a focused, strategic defense.
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
Documented Case Results in Henrico County
Our commitment to clients is reflected in our local results. In Henrico County, we have 8 documented criminal case results: 7 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended—a 100% favorable outcome rate. For instance, we secured dismissals for charges like reckless driving in excess of 80 mph and passing a school bus in Henrico General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our lead criminal attorney, Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a background in accounting, provides strategic oversight on complex cases involving property crimes.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Henrico County courts (4301 East Parham Road). As a burglary defense lawyer Henrico County near Glen Allen and Short Pump, we are accessible via I-64, I-95, and I-295. We serve communities including Glen Allen, Short Pump, Innsbrook, Tuckahoe, Highland Springs, and Mechanicsville.
Frequently Asked Questions: Burglary Defense in Henrico
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 breaking and entering a dwelling house at night with criminal intent. Breaking and entering (§ 18.2-91) involves entering any other building (like a store or shed) with intent to commit a crime, and can be charged regardless of the time of day.
Can a burglary charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends. Burglary is always a felony. However, a skilled burglary charge defense lawyer Henrico County may negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to amend the charge to a lesser felony like trespassing or a misdemeanor larceny, depending on the evidence, the defendant’s history, and the specific circumstances of the case.
What should I do if I am arrested for burglary in Henrico County?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. Contact a burglary defense lawyer Henrico County from our firm 24/7 at (888) 437-7747. We can advise you on the bond process and begin building your defense strategy right away.
Is intent necessary for a burglary conviction?
Yes. The prosecution must prove you had the intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault at the moment you broke and entered. A defense often focuses on challenging the evidence of this specific criminal intent.
What court handles burglary cases in Henrico County?
Felony burglary charges start with a preliminary hearing in Henrico County General District Court. If the judge finds probable cause, the case is certified to Henrico County Circuit Court for a potential jury trial. You need a lawyer experienced in both courts.
For more information on criminal defense in Virginia, see our Virginia criminal defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Chesterfield County and with related charges such as DUI in Henrico County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.