Burglary Defense Lawyer in King George County, Virginia
A burglary charge in King George County is a serious felony under Virginia law, carrying severe penalties. As a burglary defense lawyer King George County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong representation for those accused of breaking and entering. Our firm has documented results in King George County courts. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747.
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
In Virginia, burglary is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-89 as breaking and entering the dwelling house of another in the nighttime 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 of up to $100,000. A related charge, statutory burglary under § 18.2-91, involves breaking and entering with intent to commit larceny, assault, or other felony, and can be charged as a Class 2, 3, or 4 felony depending on the circumstances and tools used.
Last verified: April 2026 | King George County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official Virginia statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-89 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the King George County General District Court website.
Defending Burglary Charges in King George County
Burglary cases in King George County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the King George County General District Court for preliminary hearings, then potentially moved to Circuit Court for trial. A strong defense often hinges on challenging the intent element, the legality of the entry, or the identification of the accused. Our approach involves a detailed review of police reports, witness statements, and physical evidence.
- Initial Consultation & Case Review: Contact us immediately after an arrest. We will review the warrant, police narrative, and initial evidence.
- Investigation & Evidence Gathering: We conduct an independent investigation, which may include visiting the alleged scene, interviewing potential witnesses, and reviewing surveillance footage.
- Preliminary Hearing Strategy: At the General District Court hearing, we challenge the prosecution’s evidence to try to get charges reduced or dismissed before a case moves to Circuit Court.
- Circuit Court Defense: If the case proceeds, we file pre-trial motions, negotiate with prosecutors, and prepare a vigorous defense for a jury trial if necessary.
- Sentencing Advocacy: If a conviction occurs, we present mitigating evidence to argue for the most lenient sentence possible under the law.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Virginia
In King George County, burglary is a felony carrying a prison sentence of 5 to 20 years and substantial fines, with penalties increasing for armed burglary or prior convictions.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-89) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Statutory Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-91) | Class 2, 3, or 4 Felony | 20 years to Life (Class 2) 5-20 years (Class 3) 2-10 years (Class 4) | Up to $100,000 | Same as above; class depends on use of weapons or prior convictions. |
| Breaking and Entering (Misdemeanor) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Criminal record, possible probation. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing unique insight into how the other side builds a case. We have handled thousands of criminal matters across Virginia, developing strategies case-specific to local courts like King George County General District Court.
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 King George County, we have achieved dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and charge reductions for our clients. For instance, our team, including secondary attorney Mr. Sris—a former prosecutor and firm founder with a background in accounting and information systems—has successfully defended clients against serious property crime allegations. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our King George County Burglary Defense Lawyer
Our Fairfax location serves clients in King George County. We are accessible via Route 3 and Route 301. If you need a burglary charge defense lawyer King George County near the Dahlgren area or King George Courthouse, contact us 24/7.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
We serve the communities of King George and Dahlgren.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between burglary and breaking and entering in Virginia?
Yes, there is a major difference. Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-89) is a felony involving breaking and entering a dwelling at night with intent to commit a felony. Breaking and entering (often under § 18.2-91) can be a felony or misdemeanor and involves entering any building with intent to commit larceny or other felony, with severity based on tools used or prior convictions.
Can a burglary charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends on the evidence, your criminal history, and the specific facts. A skilled burglary defense lawyer King George County can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce a felony burglary charge to a misdemeanor like trespassing or unlawful entry, especially for first-time offenders or if the evidence of intent is weak.
What are common defenses to a burglary charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to commit a felony, mistaken identity, lack of evidence of a “breaking,” consent to enter the property, and challenging the legality of police searches or seizures that obtained evidence. An attorney will analyze all angles.
Do I need a lawyer for a burglary charge in King George County?
Yes. Burglary is a serious felony with mandatory prison time upon conviction. The Commonwealth’s Attorney will vigorously prosecute. A burglary charge defense lawyer King George County is essential to protect your rights, challenge evidence, and work toward the best possible outcome, which could mean dismissal or reduction of charges.
What happens at a preliminary hearing for burglary?
The preliminary hearing is held in King George County General District Court. The prosecutor must show probable cause that a burglary occurred and that you committed it. Your attorney can cross-examine witnesses and argue to have the charge dismissed or reduced before it is sent to Circuit Court for trial.
Related Legal Services in King George County
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides representation for DUI defense, criminal defense in Fairfax County, and criminal defense across Virginia.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.