Burglary Defense Lawyer in Henrico County, Virginia — What Are Your Options?
A burglary charge in Henrico County is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-90, carrying 5 years to life in prison; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented results in Henrico County. A burglary defense lawyer Henrico County can challenge the prosecution’s evidence on intent and unlawful entry.
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 § 18.2-90 as entering a dwelling house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. The statute is part of Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses this detailed statutory knowledge to build defenses.
In Henrico County, burglary is prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and can be classified as a felony with severe consequences. The specific elements the prosecution must prove include the time of entry (night), the type of structure (dwelling), and the specific criminal intent at the moment of entry.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-90 (official Virginia General Assembly site). Court information and procedures can be found at the Henrico County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for a Burglary Charge
Facing a burglary charge in Henrico County involves specific local procedures. The case begins with an arrest and bond hearing before a magistrate. For a breaking and entering defense lawyer Henrico County to be effective, early intervention is critical.
- Initial Appearance & Bond: Your first hearing is at Henrico County General District Court (4301 East Parham Road) to address bail conditions.
- Preliminary Hearing: The court determines if there is probable cause for the felony charge to proceed to Circuit Court.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: You enter a plea at Henrico County Circuit Court, where felony trials are held.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney reviews all evidence, files motions to suppress, and challenges the prosecution’s case.
- Trial or Negotiation: The case proceeds to a jury trial or a negotiated plea based on the strength of the defense.
Potential Penalties for a Burglary Conviction
In Henrico County, burglary under Va. Code § 18.2-90 is a Class 3 felony, punishable by 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000. Enhanced penalties apply if armed.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Dwelling, Night) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Burglary with Deadly Weapon | Class 2 Felony | 20 years – Life | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Mandatory minimum sentences apply. |
| Statutory Burglary (Other Building) | Class 6 Felony | 1 – 5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Can be reduced to misdemeanor penalty at jury discretion. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firm Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. The firm’s combined attorney experience exceeds 120 years. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of Virginia criminal law and local Henrico County court procedures. Mr. Sris, the managing attorney and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
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
For a burglary charge defense lawyer Henrico County, having a team with this background is vital. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, also brings strategic insight as a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, which is advantageous in cases involving forensic evidence.
Documented Case Results in Henrico County
Our firm has a documented record in Henrico County courts. We have achieved 8 results in this locality: 7 cases dismissed or found not guilty, and 1 charge reduced or amended.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
- Dismissed: Reckless Driving – Speed in Excess of 80 MPH (Henrico General District Court).
- Dismissed: Reckless Driving – Pass School Bus (Henrico General District Court).
- Dismissed: Sell Alcohol to Unauthorized Person (Henrico County GDC).
Burglary Defense Lawyer Near Henrico County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Henrico County courts. We represent individuals from Glen Allen, Short Pump, Innsbrook, Tuckahoe, Highland Springs, and Mechanicsville.
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 — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Henrico County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Henrico County 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 are heard at Henrico County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Henrico County, Virginia?
It depends. 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 Henrico County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Henrico County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Henrico County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Henrico County General District Court.
Do I need a burglary defense lawyer in Henrico County, Virginia?
Yes. Burglary charges are serious felonies prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Henrico County Circuit Court. A conviction carries a prison sentence and creates a permanent felony record. Contacting a burglary defense lawyer Henrico County immediately is crucial for your defense.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Henrico County?
Henrico County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Henrico County 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.
Related Legal Information
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Chesterfield County and Hanover County. In Henrico County, we also handle DUI defense and reckless driving cases.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.