Burglary Defense Lawyer Colonial Heights — What Are Your Legal Options?
Burglary in Colonial Heights is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-90, carrying up to life imprisonment. A Burglary Defense Lawyer Colonial Heights from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. is critical. Our Richmond location has handled 4 documented case results in the area. We provide 24/7 consultations.
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
Burglary in Virginia is defined by Va. Code § 18.2-90 as entering a dwelling house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. Breaking and entering a dwelling in the daytime with the same intent is also burglary under § 18.2-91. These are Class 3 felonies, punishable by 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000. If armed with a deadly weapon, it becomes a Class 2 felony (Va. Code § 18.2-92), with a potential life sentence.
Last verified: April 2026 | Colonial Heights General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
For official statute text, see Va. Code § 18.2-90 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Colonial Heights General District Court website.
- Initial Consultation & Case Review: Contact our firm immediately after arrest or charge. We analyze police reports and evidence.
- Bond Hearing: We advocate for your release at a bond hearing in Colonial Heights General District Court.
- Preliminary Hearing: For felony charges, we challenge probable cause at a preliminary hearing in GDC.
- Circuit Court Proceedings: If indicted, the case moves to Colonial Heights Circuit Court for motions, plea negotiations, or trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, we present mitigating evidence to argue for the minimum sentence under the guidelines.
In Colonial Heights, a burglary conviction carries a mandatory prison sentence of 5 to 20 years, with a fine up to $100,000, and creates a permanent felony record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Night, Dwelling) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Burglary (Day, Dwelling) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | Same as above. |
| Burglary while Armed | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to Life | Up to $100,000 | Enhanced penalties, mandatory minimums likely apply. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Colonial Heights Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of 4 case results in Colonial Heights across all practice areas. Our approach is built on a deep understanding of local court procedures and prosecutorial strategies.
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
Our team also includes Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with multi-state bar admissions who personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute. His strategic oversight is applied to complex cases.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
Our documented results in Colonial Heights demonstrate our commitment to client advocacy. We focus on achieving the best possible outcome, whether through dismissal, reduction of charges, or favorable plea agreements. Every case is unique, and we develop a case-specific defense strategy.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Burglary Defense Lawyer Near Colonial Heights, VA
Our Richmond location serves clients in Colonial Heights and is accessible via I-95 and Route 1. We are a trusted burglary charge defense lawyer Colonial Heights for residents throughout the area.
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.
Serving: Colonial Heights.
Frequently Asked Questions: Burglary Defense in Colonial Heights
What is the difference between burglary and breaking and entering in Virginia?
Yes, there is a key difference. Burglary under Va. Code § 18.2-90 requires entering a dwelling at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. Breaking and entering under § 18.2-91 involves a dwelling in the daytime with the same intent, and is also prosecuted as burglary. Other breaking and entering statutes apply to non-dwellings.
Can a burglary charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends. Burglary is a felony. A skilled Burglary Defense Lawyer Colonial Heights may negotiate a reduction to a lesser felony like grand larceny or a misdemeanor like trespassing, depending on evidence, your record, and case specifics. This avoids mandatory prison time.
What are common defenses to a burglary charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to commit a crime inside, mistaken identity, unlawful search and seizure, consent to enter, and insufficient evidence. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Colonial Heights will investigate all angles to challenge the prosecution’s case.
Do I need a lawyer for a burglary charge in Colonial Heights?
Yes. Burglary carries a mandatory prison sentence upon conviction. The Commonwealth’s Attorney vigorously prosecutes these cases. An experienced burglary charge defense lawyer Colonial Heights is essential to protect your rights, challenge evidence, and work toward the best possible resolution.
What court handles burglary cases in Colonial Heights?
Burglary is a felony. The case starts with a preliminary hearing in Colonial Heights General District Court. If probable cause is found, it proceeds to a jury trial in Colonial Heights Circuit Court.
Internal Resources: For more on Virginia criminal law, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Chesterfield County and Henrico County. If you are facing other charges, learn about our services as a DUI Lawyer in Colonial Heights.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.