Burglary Lawyer Augusta County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Burglary in Augusta County is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-90, punishable by up to life imprisonment. A burglary lawyer Augusta County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides critical defense. Our firm has 13 documented case results in Augusta County across all practice areas. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
Burglary is defined in Virginia as entering a dwelling house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault, or entering any building with intent to commit murder, rape, robbery, or arson. The specific statute is Va. Code § 18.2-90. Breaking and entering with intent to commit larceny, assault, or any other felony is covered under related statutes. The severity of the charge depends on factors like the type of building, time of day, and whether the defendant was armed.
Last verified: April 2026 | Augusta County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official Virginia burglary statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-90 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court information, visit the Augusta County General District Court website.
Augusta County Court Process for Burglary Charges
Burglary charges in Augusta County begin with an arrest and a bond hearing before a magistrate. The case then proceeds to Augusta County General District Court for a preliminary hearing, where a judge determines if there is probable cause to certify the felony charge to Circuit Court. A burglary charge defense lawyer Augusta County must challenge the prosecution’s evidence early.
- Initial Appearance & Bond: Seek a bond hearing to argue for release pending trial.
- Preliminary Hearing: Challenge probable cause in General District Court to try to get charges reduced or dismissed.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: Enter a formal plea of not guilty in Augusta County Circuit Court.
- Discovery & Motions: File motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Negotiate for a favorable plea or prepare for a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, advocate for the most lenient sentence possible under the circumstances.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Virginia
In Augusta County, burglary is a felony with penalties ranging from 5 years to life in prison, depending on the specific circumstances and the defendant’s criminal history.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Dwelling, Night) | Class 3 Felony | 5 to 20 years | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights |
| Burglary (Armed) | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | Mandatory minimum sentences apply |
| Breaking and Entering | Class 6 Felony | 1 to 5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Can be reduced to misdemeanor at jury discretion |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We have achieved over 4,739 favorable case results firm-wide, with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our approach is built on thorough case preparation and strategic defense planning.
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
Case Results
Our firm has a documented record of achieving positive outcomes in criminal cases. In Augusta County, we have 13 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 100% favorable outcome rate. For example, our team has successfully secured amendments from serious charges like driving on a suspended license to non-criminal violations. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Burglary Lawyer Near Augusta County
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients facing charges at the Augusta County General District Court in Staunton. We are accessible via I-81 and I-64. We serve communities throughout the area including Staunton, Waynesboro, Fishersville, Stuarts Draft, Verona, and Churchville.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Shenandoah/Woodstock
505 N Main St #103, Woodstock, VA 22664, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Augusta County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Augusta 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 Augusta County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Augusta 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 Augusta County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Augusta County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Augusta County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Augusta County General District Court.
Do I need a breaking and entering defense lawyer Augusta County?
Yes. Breaking and entering is a felony. Charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Augusta County Circuit Court. A conviction creates a permanent felony record and carries a prison sentence. Contact a burglary charge defense lawyer Augusta County immediately.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Augusta County?
Augusta County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Augusta 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.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page, our page for neighboring Shenandoah County, or learn about DUI defense in Augusta County.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.