Burglary Lawyer Virginia Beach — What Are Your Defense Options?
A burglary charge in Virginia Beach is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-90, carrying 5 years to life in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented case results defending clients in Virginia Beach courts. A burglary lawyer Virginia Beach 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
In Virginia, burglary is defined by statute as entering a dwelling house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. The related offense of statutory burglary covers entry into any building with similar intent, day or night. These are serious felony charges prosecuted aggressively in Virginia Beach Circuit Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
For official code text, see Va. Code § 18.2-90 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Virginia Beach Circuit Court website.
- Initial Consultation & Case Analysis: Discuss the arrest details, police report, and any statements made.
- Evidence Review & Investigation: Examine search warrants, witness statements, and forensic evidence for constitutional violations.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence obtained illegally or challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Negotiation or Trial: Pursue charge reduction or case dismissal through plea negotiations or prepare for a jury trial in Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Burglary Charges
In Virginia Beach, burglary is a Class 3 felony punishable by 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000. Statutory burglary is a Class 6 felony (1-5 years or up to 12 months in jail).
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-90) | 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 (Va. Code § 18.2-91) | Class 6 Felony | 1 – 5 years (or up to 12 months jail) | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Same as above; enhanced penalties if armed or prior convictions. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s 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+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We provide full representation, from the initial arrest through trial and appeal.
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
Our firm has secured favorable outcomes in complex criminal cases. In one instance, we achieved an amendment of a serious charge to a lesser offense, avoiding felony consequences. In another, our defense led to the termination of probation for a client facing multiple violation counts.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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 in Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. We are accessible via I-264, I-64, and Route 44. If you need a burglary lawyer near Virginia Beach, contact us for a case review.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia Beach carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at Virginia Beach General District Court (2425 Nimmo Parkway, Bldg 10B, Virginia Beach, VA 23456). 8 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate)
Can criminal charges be expunged in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Virginia Beach Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 8 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate)
How does bail work in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Virginia Beach. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Virginia Beach General District Court. Bond amount set by magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%); public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony)
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Virginia Beach are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Virginia Beach General District Court (2425 Nimmo Parkway, Bldg 10B, Virginia Beach, VA 23456). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 8 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate) Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a Consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Virginia Beach?
Virginia Beach General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Virginia Beach Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time. Virginia Beach General District Court (2425 Nimmo Parkway, Bldg 10B, Virginia Beach, VA 23456) is the GDC location.
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense hub. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you have other legal needs, consider our services for DUI defense in Virginia Beach or family law matters.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Consult a qualified burglary lawyer Virginia Beach for current legal advice.