Burglary Defense Lawyer Alexandria — What Are Your Legal Options?
Burglary in Alexandria is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-89, carrying 5 years to life in prison. A burglary defense lawyer Alexandria from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can challenge the prosecution’s evidence of breaking and entering. Our firm has documented results in Alexandria courts. Contact us 24/7 for a case review.
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
Burglary in Virginia is defined by statute as entering a dwelling house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. The law distinguishes between statutory burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-89) and common law burglary, with the former carrying severe penalties. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Alexandria must understand these nuances to build an effective defense.
Last verified: April 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings a deep understanding of how these charges are constructed and prosecuted in Alexandria.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the burglary statute, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-89 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and filings for Alexandria cases are handled through the Alexandria General District Court website.
Alexandria Court Process for Burglary Charges
In Alexandria, a burglary charge typically begins with an arrest and an initial appearance at the Alexandria General District Court for a bond hearing. Felony burglary charges are then presented to a grand jury at the Alexandria Circuit Court for indictment. The key local procedural fact is that the Commonwealth’s Attorney must prove both the unlawful entry and the specific criminal intent beyond a reasonable doubt. A burglary charge defense lawyer Alexandria can attack either element.
- Initial Arrest & Bond Hearing: You will be taken before a magistrate at the Alexandria Detention Center. A defense attorney can argue for personal recognizance or a reduced secured bond.
- Preliminary Hearing: In Alexandria General District Court, the prosecution must show probable cause that a burglary occurred. Your attorney can cross-examine witnesses and seek dismissal.
- Grand Jury Indictment: The case proceeds to Alexandria Circuit Court if the grand jury issues a “true bill.” This is a secret proceeding, but your attorney can present exculpatory evidence to the Commonwealth’s Attorney beforehand.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney will file motions to suppress evidence obtained illegally and review all discovery from the prosecution.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: Most cases are resolved through negotiation. An experienced attorney can negotiate for a reduction to a lesser offense like trespassing.
- Sentencing: If convicted, your attorney will advocate for the minimum sentence, presenting mitigating factors to the judge.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Alexandria
In Alexandria, statutory burglary under Va. Code § 18.2-89 is a Class 3 felony punishable by 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000. If armed or causing bodily injury, penalties increase significantly.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Statutory Burglary (Dwelling) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Burglary while Armed | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Mandatory minimum sentences apply. |
| Breaking & Entering (Non-Dwelling) | Class 6 Felony | 1 – 5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Can be reduced to misdemeanor at jury discretion. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Alexandria Burglary Defense Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our combined legal experience exceeds 120 years. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes in complex criminal cases. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we use every available resource to defend you.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on serious felony matters. His background in accounting and information systems offers a unique advantage in cases involving financial evidence or digital forensics.
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
Documented Case Results
Our firm-wide track record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. While results are specific to each case, this history demonstrates our commitment to vigorous defense. In Alexandria and surrounding jurisdictions, we have successfully negotiated reductions of felony charges and secured favorable dispositions for our clients.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Burglary Defense Lawyer Near Alexandria, VA
Our Arlington location serves clients facing charges at the Alexandria courts on King Street. We are accessible to residents of Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne. If you need a burglary defense lawyer near Alexandria, we offer 24/7 phone consultations and in-person meetings by appointment.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between burglary and breaking and entering in Virginia?
Yes, there is a key difference. Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-89) requires entering a dwelling at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. Breaking and entering (Va. Code § 18.2-91) involves entering a building (not necessarily a dwelling) with intent to commit larceny, assault, or other felony. The penalties for burglary are more severe.
Can a burglary charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends. A skilled burglary charge defense lawyer Alexandria may negotiate a reduction to a misdemeanor like trespassing or destruction of property, especially for first-time offenders or cases with weak evidence of intent. The final decision rests with the prosecutor and judge based on the case facts.
What are common defenses to a burglary charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent (you entered for another reason), mistaken identity, unlawful search and seizure, insufficient evidence of “breaking,” or consent to enter. An attorney will examine police reports, witness statements, and forensic evidence to identify the strongest defense strategy for your situation.
Do I need a lawyer for a burglary charge in Alexandria?
Yes. Burglary is a felony with life-altering penalties. The Alexandria Commonwealth’s Attorney vigorously prosecutes these cases. A burglary defense lawyer Alexandria from SRIS, P.C. can protect your rights, challenge evidence, and work toward the best possible outcome. Contact us 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation.
What happens at a preliminary hearing for burglary?
The prosecution must show probable cause that a burglary occurred and that you committed it. It is a critical stage where your attorney can cross-examine the state’s witnesses, expose weaknesses in their case, and potentially get the charges dismissed before they go to a grand jury.
Related Practice Areas: If you are facing other charges, explore our pages for a DUI lawyer in Alexandria or a family law attorney in Alexandria.
More Virginia Help: For a broader overview, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in neighboring areas like Arlington County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For the most current advice regarding your specific case, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a confidential consultation.
