Burglary Lawyer Henrico County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A burglary charge in Henrico County is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-89, carrying 5 years to life in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented results in Henrico County: 7 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended. Our burglary lawyer Henrico County team defends breaking and entering charges at Henrico County General District and Circuit Courts. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
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 § 18.2-89 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. If the perpetrator is armed with a deadly weapon, the charge becomes statutory burglary while armed (§ 18.2-90), a more severe felony. The prosecution must prove the unlawful entry occurred at night and that you intended to commit a crime inside. A burglary charge defense lawyer Henrico County can challenge the evidence on each of these required elements.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-89 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Henrico County General District Court website.
Handling a Burglary Case in Henrico County
Henrico County prosecutors treat burglary charges aggressively. The case begins with an arrest and bond hearing. For felonies, a preliminary hearing is held in Henrico County General District Court to determine if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court for a jury trial. Early intervention by a breaking and entering defense lawyer Henrico County is critical to challenge the evidence before it solidifies.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest to advise on bond and police questioning.
- Your attorney will file for discovery to obtain all police reports, witness statements, and forensic evidence.
- A motion to suppress evidence may be filed if the search, seizure, or arrest violated your constitutional rights.
- At the preliminary hearing, your lawyer will cross-examine the state’s witnesses to weaken the probable cause finding.
- If the case proceeds to Circuit Court, your defense will negotiate for a reduction or prepare for a jury trial focusing on intent or identity.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Henrico
In Henrico County, burglary is a Class 3 felony carrying 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-89) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Statutory Burglary (Armed) (§ 18.2-90) | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | None directly | Mandatory minimum sentences apply; severe long-term consequences. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Henrico County Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In Henrico County, we have documented results defending clients against serious charges. Our team understands the local court procedures and prosecution strategies.
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 in Henrico County
Our team has achieved favorable outcomes for clients in Henrico County courts. Documented results include charges such as Reckless Driving in Excess of 80 MPH and Passing a School Bus being dismissed at Henrico General District Court. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Burglary Lawyer Near Henrico County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Henrico County courts (4301 East Parham Road). We represent individuals from Glen Allen, Short Pump, Innsbrook, Tuckahoe, and surrounding communities. 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
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.
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) and petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96).
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 criminal defense lawyer in Henrico County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Henrico County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record. A burglary charge defense lawyer Henrico County can protect your rights and build a 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.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Chesterfield County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Henrico County DUI Lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.