Burglary Defense Lawyer Hanover County — Protecting Your Rights
A burglary charge in Hanover County is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-89, carrying 5 years to life in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense, challenging evidence of intent and unlawful entry. Our burglary defense lawyer Hanover County team is available 24/7. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Last verified: April 2026 | Hanover County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
In Virginia, burglary is defined by statute as entering a dwelling house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. The charge 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 offense becomes statutory burglary while armed, a more severe felony. The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you entered the structure, that it was a dwelling, that it was nighttime, and that you had the specific intent to commit a crime inside. A skilled breaking and entering defense lawyer Hanover County can attack each of these elements.
For the official Virginia statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-89 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Hanover County General District Court website.
- Secure immediate legal representation after arrest or charge.
- Your attorney will file for discovery to obtain all police reports and evidence.
- A motion to suppress evidence may be filed if your rights were violated during the investigation.
- Your lawyer will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, seeking a reduction to a lesser offense like trespassing.
- If a plea agreement isn’t in your interest, your attorney will prepare for a jury trial in Hanover County Circuit Court.
In Hanover County, a burglary conviction under Va. Code § 18.2-89 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 | None | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment and housing. |
| Statutory Burglary (Armed) | More Severe Felony | Mandatory Minimums Apply | Up to $100,000 | None | Same as above, with enhanced penalties. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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 track record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the high stakes of a felony burglary charge and the specific procedures of Hanover County courts.
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
Our firm has documented case results in Hanover County. In every criminal defense matter, our goal is to seek the best possible outcome, whether through dismissal, reduction of charges, or acquittal. 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, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Hanover County courts on Library Drive. As your nearby burglary charge defense lawyer Hanover County, we represent clients from Mechanicsville, Ashland, Atlee, Beaverdam, and Doswell.
Burglary Defense FAQs in Hanover County, VA
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 § 18.2-91) involves entering a building to commit a misdemeanor. Burglary is a more serious felony.
Can a burglary charge be reduced to a misdemeanor in Hanover County?
It depends. A skilled burglary defense lawyer Hanover County may negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to amend the charge to a lesser offense like trespassing (a misdemeanor) if the evidence of intent is weak or there are procedural flaws in the case.
What are the defenses to a burglary charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent, mistaken identity, unlawful search and seizure, and consent to enter. An attorney will analyze the evidence to challenge the prosecution’s proof of every element of the crime.
Do I need a lawyer for a burglary charge in Hanover County?
Yes. Burglary is a felony with severe, life-altering penalties. The Hanover County Commonwealth’s Attorney vigorously prosecutes these cases. An experienced breaking and entering defense lawyer Hanover County is essential to protect your rights and build a defense.
Where is the Hanover County court for burglary cases?
Misdemeanor trials and preliminary hearings are at Hanover County General District Court (7507 Library Drive). Felony jury trials are held at Hanover County Circuit Court. Your attorney will guide you through the correct venue.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you are facing other charges, our firm provides representation for related matters such as DUI/DWI in Hanover County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.