Burglary Lawyer Chesapeake — Defending Against Breaking and Entering Charges
Burglary in Chesapeake is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-89, punishable by up to life in prison. A burglary lawyer Chesapeake from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense. We have documented results in Chesapeake courts. Contact us 24/7 for a consultation by appointment.
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
Burglary, often called breaking and entering, is defined under Virginia law as entering a dwelling house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. The specific statute is Va. Code § 18.2-89. This is a Class 3 felony, carrying a potential sentence of 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000. If the accused was armed with a deadly weapon, the charge becomes statutory burglary while armed under § 18.2-90, a more severe offense.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm understands the gravity of these charges. A burglary charge defense lawyer Chesapeake must scrutinize the evidence of intent and unlawful entry, which are critical elements the Commonwealth must prove beyond a reasonable doubt.
Official Legal Resources
For the official state code, refer to the Virginia General Assembly website (Va. Code § 18.2-89). Court information for Chesapeake cases can be found at the Chesapeake General District Court website.
Defending a Chesapeake Burglary Case: The Local Process
In Chesapeake, burglary cases begin with an arrest and a bond hearing before a magistrate. The case then proceeds to the Chesapeake General District Court for a preliminary hearing, where the Commonwealth must show probable cause. If bound over, the felony trial occurs in Chesapeake Circuit Court. Prosecutors must prove you entered a dwelling at night with the specific intent to commit a crime inside. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Chesapeake challenges this intent and the legality of the entry evidence.
- Initial Consultation & Investigation: Immediately after arrest, contact a burglary lawyer Chesapeake. 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 burglary charge, focusing on weaknesses in the evidence of intent or unlawful entry.
- Circuit Court Motions: In Circuit Court, we file pre-trial motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Trial or Negotiation: We prepare a vigorous defense for trial while exploring options for reduction to a lesser offense, such as trespass, if the evidence supports it.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Chesapeake
In Chesapeake, burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-89) is a Class 3 felony punishable by 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Long-Term Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (§ 18.2-89) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, firearm rights, employment difficulties. |
| Statutory Burglary (Armed) (§ 18.2-90) | More Severe Felony | Potential Life Sentence | Court Discretion | All Class 3 consequences plus mandatory minimum sentences. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Burglary Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience to building a strong defense. We approach each case with a focus on the specific facts and evidence. For a burglary charge defense lawyer Chesapeake residents can rely on, our team provides dedicated representation.
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 a documented record of favorable outcomes in criminal cases. In Chesapeake, we have achieved results including dismissals and charge reductions for clients. Every case is unique, and we fight to protect your rights and future. Our secondary attorney on complex cases, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor and firm founder with multi-state bar admissions who provides strategic oversight.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Burglary Defense Lawyer Near Chesapeake, VA
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at the Chesapeake General District and Circuit Courts. We provide representation for residents of Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions: Burglary Charges in Chesapeake
What is the difference between burglary and breaking and entering in Virginia?
In Virginia, “burglary” specifically refers to entering a dwelling house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault (Va. Code § 18.2-89). “Breaking and entering” is a broader term often used for similar offenses but can apply to different buildings or times. A burglary lawyer Chesapeake can explain the exact charges you face.
Can you go to jail for a first-time burglary offense in Chesapeake?
Yes. Burglary is a Class 3 felony with a mandatory prison sentence range of 5 to 20 years. There is no guarantee of probation for a first offense. The specific outcome depends on the case facts, your history, and the strength of the defense presented by your breaking and entering defense lawyer Chesapeake.
What are common defenses to a burglary charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to commit a crime inside, mistaken identity, unlawful search and seizure, or that the entry was authorized. An experienced burglary charge defense lawyer Chesapeake will investigate all angles, including challenging the prosecution’s evidence that you had the required criminal intent at the time of entry.
Should I talk to the police if I’m suspected of burglary?
No. You have the right to remain silent. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately request a burglary lawyer Chesapeake. Anything you say can be used to establish intent, a critical element of the burglary charge.
What court in Chesapeake handles burglary cases?
Burglary, as a felony, begins with a preliminary hearing at the Chesapeake General District Court (307 Albemarle Drive). If the case proceeds, the jury trial is held at the Chesapeake Circuit Court. A burglary lawyer Chesapeake will represent you at both court levels.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.