Burglary Lawyer Arlington County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Burglary in Arlington County is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-89, carrying 5 years to life in prison. A burglary lawyer Arlington County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. is essential to challenge the prosecution’s evidence of unlawful entry and intent. With 21 documented results in Arlington County, our firm provides a strong defense. Contact us 24/7 for a consultation by appointment.
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
Burglary in Virginia is defined by Va. Code § 18.2-89 as breaking and entering a dwelling house at night 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 up to $100,000. If the perpetrator is armed with a deadly weapon, the charge becomes statutory burglary while armed under § 18.2-90, a more severe felony. The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you broke and entered, that it was a dwelling, that it occurred at night, and that you had the specific intent to commit a crime inside.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the burglary statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-89 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information for Arlington County can be found at the Arlington County General District Court website.
Arlington County Court Process for Burglary Charges
In Arlington County, a burglary charge begins with an arrest and a bond hearing before a magistrate. The case is then presented to the Arlington County Commonwealth’s Attorney. Because burglary is a felony, your first court appearance will be a preliminary hearing in Arlington County General District Court at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd. The judge determines if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court for a jury trial. Prosecutors here often rely on forensic evidence and witness statements to prove intent.
- Secure Legal Representation: Contact a burglary lawyer Arlington County immediately after arrest. Do not speak to investigators without an attorney.
- Preliminary Hearing: Attend the hearing in Arlington County General District Court. Your attorney will challenge the probable cause for the felony charge.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If the case is certified, you will be arraigned in Arlington County Circuit Court and enter a plea.
- Discovery and Motions: Your defense lawyer will review all evidence, file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, and negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial or Resolution: The case will proceed to a jury trial or be resolved through a plea agreement that may reduce the charge.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Arlington County
In Arlington County, burglary is a Class 3 felony carrying a prison sentence of 5 to 20 years and a fine of up to $100,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Long-Term Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-89) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, difficulty finding employment and housing. |
| Statutory Burglary (Armed) (§ 18.2-90) | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | Same as above, with mandatory minimum sentences often applied. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Arlington County Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. In Arlington County, we have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing serious charges. Our approach is built on a detailed review of the evidence and a clear understanding of local court procedures.
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
Our firm’s managing attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, which provides an advantage in cases involving complex evidence. He keeps his personal caseload small to ensure deep involvement in each matter.
Case Results in Arlington County
Our commitment to defense is reflected in our local results. In Arlington County, we have 21 documented criminal case results, with 11 cases dismissed or found not guilty and 10 charges reduced or amended.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Specific case outcomes include achieving a nolle prosequi (dismissal) for a charge of Destruction of Property with Intent under $1000 and a dismissal for a Fare Evasion charge, both in Arlington County General District Court.
Local Defense for Arlington County Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington
1655 Fort Myer Dr Suite 700, Arlington, VA 22209, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only.
Our Arlington location serves clients at the Arlington County courts. We provide defense for residents in Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington. If you need a burglary lawyer near Arlington County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations. Meetings are held by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between burglary and breaking and entering in Virginia?
Yes, there is a major difference. Burglary under Va. Code § 18.2-89 requires breaking and entering a dwelling house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault, and it is a felony. Breaking and entering under § 18.2-91 generally applies to non-dwellings (like stores) or without the specific intent requirement, and it can be a misdemeanor. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Arlington County can explain which charge applies to your situation.
Can a burglary charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends. While burglary itself is a felony, a skilled burglary charge defense lawyer Arlington County may negotiate with the prosecutor to amend the charge to a misdemeanor like unlawful entry or trespass, depending on the evidence. Factors include your criminal history, the specific facts of the case, and whether the property was occupied.
What are common defenses to a burglary charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to commit a crime inside, mistaken identity, lack of evidence for a “breaking,” consent to enter the property, or an illegal search and seizure that violates the Fourth Amendment. An attorney will examine police reports, witness statements, and forensic evidence to identify the best defense strategy.
How long does a burglary case take in Arlington County?
A burglary case can take several months to over a year. The preliminary hearing in General District Court is typically within a few months of arrest. If certified to Circuit Court, the process involves arraignment, discovery, pre-trial motions, and potentially a jury trial, which can extend the timeline significantly.
Why do I need a burglary lawyer Arlington County instead of a public defender?
While public defenders are dedicated attorneys, they often carry extremely high caseloads. A private burglary lawyer Arlington County from our firm can typically devote more time and resources to investigating your case, consulting experts, and developing a personalized defense strategy focused on achieving the best possible outcome.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page, our page for neighboring Alexandria, or related services like DUI defense in Arlington County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.