Burglary Defense Lawyer Lexington — What Are Your Legal Options?
Burglary in Lexington is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-89, carrying 5 years to life in prison. A burglary defense lawyer Lexington from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense. Our firm has 14 documented case results in Lexington. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
Last verified: April 2026 | Lexington 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 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 offender 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 every element beyond a reasonable doubt, including the specific intent at the time of entry. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Lexington can challenge the evidence on each point.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-89 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Lexington General District Court website.
Defending a Burglary Charge in Lexington Court
In Lexington General District Court, prosecutors must establish the specific intent to commit a crime inside the dwelling. A common defense is lack of intent, arguing the entry was for another purpose. Another defense is challenging the “breaking” element, which can include pushing open an unlocked door. The procedural steps in Lexington are specific. First, an arrest and bond hearing occur. Next, a preliminary hearing in General District Court determines if there is probable cause for a felony trial. The case then moves to Lexington Circuit Court for indictment and potential jury trial. It is critical to have a burglary charge defense lawyer Lexington involved from the start to investigate and file pre-trial motions.
- Secure legal representation immediately after arrest.
- Attend the bond hearing at the magistrate’s office or jail.
- Prepare for and attend the preliminary hearing in Lexington General District Court.
- If the case is certified, proceed to arraignment and pre-trial motions in Lexington Circuit Court.
- Evaluate plea negotiations or prepare for a jury trial.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Lexington
In Lexington, 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 | No direct impact | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Burglary while Armed (Va. Code § 18.2-90) | More Severe Felony | Mandatory minimum sentences apply | Court discretion | No direct impact | All of the above, with enhanced penalties. |
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 have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We have achieved 4,739+ case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to vigorous representation. For a burglary charge defense lawyer Lexington, our team understands the local court procedures.
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 Client Advocacy
Our firm has 14 total documented case results across all practice areas in Lexington, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. For example, we have successfully amended charges like driving on a suspended license to a non-criminal offense. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Our secondary attorney on complex cases is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting who personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute.
Local Representation for Lexington Residents
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Lexington courts (2 South Main Street). We are accessible via I-81 and I-64, near landmarks like Virginia Military Institute and Washington and Lee University. If you need a burglary defense lawyer near Lexington, we are here to help. We serve the Lexington community. 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Lexington, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Lexington 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 heard at Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450). 14 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Lexington, Virginia?
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 Lexington Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 14 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate).
How does bail work in Lexington, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Lexington. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Lexington General District Court. Bond amount set by magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%); public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony).
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Lexington, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Lexington are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 14 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate) Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a Consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Lexington?
Lexington General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Lexington 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. Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450) is the GDC location.
Internal Resources
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 Lexington, consider our services for DUI defense or family law.
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.
