Burglary Lawyer Hanover County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A burglary charge in Hanover 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 documented results defending burglary charges in Virginia. A burglary lawyer Hanover County from our firm can challenge the prosecution’s evidence on intent and unlawful entry. Contact us 24/7 for a consultation by appointment.
Last verified: April 2026 | Hanover County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
Burglary in Virginia is defined in Va. Code § 18.2-90. The statute makes it a felony to enter a dwelling house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. If the entry occurs in the daytime, it is covered under Va. Code § 18.2-91. The core of the offense is the intent to commit a crime at the moment of entry. This is a key point a burglary charge defense lawyer Hanover County will scrutinize. The Commonwealth must prove this specific intent beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Initial Arrest & Bond Hearing: After arrest, a magistrate sets bond. For burglary, a secured bond is likely. You can request a bond review in Hanover County General District Court.
- Preliminary Hearing: A felony burglary charge starts with a preliminary hearing in Hanover County General District Court to determine if there is probable cause.
- Grand Jury Indictment: If probable cause is found, the case proceeds to a grand jury in Hanover County Circuit Court for a formal indictment.
- Circuit Court Arraignment & Motions: You will be arraigned on the indictment. Your attorney will file pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or challenge the charge.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: The case proceeds to a jury trial in Circuit Court or may be resolved through plea negotiations to a lesser offense.
Penalties for Burglary in Hanover County
In Hanover County, burglary under Va. Code § 18.2-90 is a Class 3 felony punishable by 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000. If armed with a deadly weapon, penalties increase.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Night) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record |
| Burglary (Day) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record |
| Burglary with Deadly Weapon | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | Mandatory minimum sentence |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Burglary Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have a combined 120+ years of legal experience. We have handled firm-wide 4,739+ cases with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our approach to burglary defense involves a detailed review of the evidence to attack the element of intent. We examine police reports, witness statements, and forensic evidence to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. For instance, was there a lawful reason for entry? Can the specific intent to commit a crime at the moment of entry be disproven? Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how these cases are built.
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 and Defense Strategy
Our firm has a documented record of favorable results in criminal cases. In one instance, a breaking and entering charge was amended to a lesser trespassing offense, avoiding felony consequences.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
A successful defense often hinges on challenging the evidence of intent or the legality of the police investigation. Attorney Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. His background in accounting and information systems is particularly valuable in cases involving alleged theft or financial intent.
Burglary Lawyer Near Hanover County, VA
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Hanover County courts. We represent individuals in Mechanicsville, Ashland, Atlee, Beaverdam, and Doswell. Our office is accessible via I-95, I-295, Route 1, and Route 33.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between burglary and breaking and entering in Virginia?
Yes, there is a key difference. Burglary requires entering a dwelling at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. Breaking and entering under Va. Code § 18.2-91 generally applies to daytime entry or entry into a building other than a dwelling. The specific intent and type of building are critical distinctions a breaking and entering defense lawyer Hanover County will analyze.
Can a burglary charge be reduced in Hanover County?
It depends. Prosecutors may agree to reduce a burglary charge to unlawful entry or trespassing if the evidence of criminal intent is weak. Factors include your criminal history, the circumstances of the alleged offense, and the strength of the defense’s challenges. A burglary charge defense lawyer Hanover County can negotiate based on the specifics of your case.
What are common defenses to a burglary charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent (you entered for a non-criminal purpose), mistaken identity, lack of evidence proving you were the person who entered, unlawful search and seizure by police, and consent to enter the property. An attorney will investigate which defense applies to your situation.
Do I need a lawyer for a burglary charge in Hanover County?
Yes. Burglary is a serious felony with mandatory prison time upon conviction. The Hanover County Commonwealth’s Attorney vigorously prosecutes these cases. A lawyer is essential to protect your rights, challenge evidence, and pursue the best possible outcome, which could be dismissal, acquittal, or charge reduction.
Where are burglary cases heard in Hanover County?
Burglary cases begin with a preliminary hearing at the Hanover County General District Court (7507 Library Drive, Suite 201). If probable cause is found, the case is indicted by a grand jury and tried by a jury in the Hanover County Circuit Court.
If you are facing a burglary investigation or charge, contact a burglary lawyer Hanover County from our firm immediately. Early intervention can significantly impact your case. We offer 24/7 consultations by phone.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. For other legal needs in Hanover County, consider our DUI defense or family law services.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.