Burglary Lawyer Colonial Heights — Defending Against Breaking and Entering Charges
A burglary charge in Colonial Heights is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-90, carrying 5 years to life in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for breaking and entering charges in Colonial Heights General District and Circuit Courts. Our burglary lawyer Colonial Heights team challenges evidence and intent. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
In Virginia, burglary is defined as entering a dwelling house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault, or entering any building with intent to commit a misdemeanor involving theft or violence. The specific statute is Va. Code § 18.2-90. The severity of the charge depends on the type of structure entered and the time of day.
Last verified: April 2026 | Colonial Heights General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-90 (official Virginia General Assembly)
- Colonial Heights General District Court Website
Defending a Burglary Case in Colonial Heights
Prosecutors in Colonial Heights must prove you entered a structure without authority and had the specific intent to commit a crime inside. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Colonial Heights from our firm examines police reports, witness statements, and forensic evidence to challenge the prosecution’s case. Common defenses include lack of intent, mistaken identity, or unlawful search and seizure.
- Initial Appearance: You will be arraigned at Colonial Heights General District Court (550 Boulevard). The court will advise you of the charges and your rights.
- Preliminary Hearing: For felony burglary, a hearing is held in GDC to determine if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court for trial.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your attorney will obtain all evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney and conduct an independent investigation.
- Motion Practice: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on legal defects.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: The case will proceed to a jury trial in Colonial Heights Circuit Court or may be resolved through a negotiated plea agreement.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows Virginia’s felony sentencing guidelines, which a skilled burglary lawyer Colonial Heights can argue to minimize.
Burglary Penalties in Colonial Heights
In Colonial Heights, burglary is a felony with penalties ranging from 5 years to life imprisonment, depending on the specific circumstances and the defendant’s criminal history.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Dwelling, Night) | Class 3 Felony | 5 to 20 years | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Burglary (Other Building, Night) | Class 3 Felony | 5 to 20 years | Up to $100,000 | Same as above. |
| Statutory Burglary (Daytime, intent to commit misdemeanor) | Class 6 Felony | 1 to 5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Same as above. |
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 results defending clients in Colonial Heights and across Virginia. Our approach is built on thorough case preparation and aggressive advocacy.
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 secured favorable outcomes in criminal cases across Virginia. In Colonial Heights, we have documented case results defending clients. Every case is unique, and our burglary lawyer Colonial Heights team works to achieve the best possible result, whether through case dismissal, charge reduction, or favorable plea negotiation. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Burglary Defense Lawyer Near Colonial Heights, VA
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at the Colonial Heights courts. We are accessible via I-95, I-295, Route 1, and Route 144 (Temple Avenue). We provide legal representation to individuals throughout Colonial Heights.
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: Burglary Charges in Colonial Heights
What is the difference between burglary and breaking and entering in Virginia?
Yes, there is a key difference. Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-90) 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 to commit a misdemeanor involving theft or violence. Both are felonies, but burglary of a dwelling carries more severe penalties.
Can you go to jail for a first-time burglary offense in Colonial Heights?
Yes. Burglary is a felony in Virginia. A first-time conviction for burglary of a dwelling (Class 3 felony) carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years in prison, with a maximum of 20 years. Sentencing depends on the specifics of the crime and your background, making a strong defense from a burglary lawyer Colonial Heights critical.
What are common defenses to a burglary charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to commit a crime inside the structure, mistaken identity, alibi, consent to enter the property, and challenging the legality of the evidence obtained (e.g., through an unlawful search). A breaking and entering defense lawyer Colonial Heights will investigate all possible defenses based on the facts of your case.
Should I talk to the police if I’m suspected of burglary?
No. You have the right to remain silent. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately request an attorney. Anything you say can be used against you. Contact a burglary charge defense lawyer Colonial Heights before speaking with investigators.
What court handles burglary cases in Colonial Heights?
Burglary cases begin in Colonial Heights General District Court for the preliminary hearing. The felony trial is held in Colonial Heights Circuit Court. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for a felony charge.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Chesterfield County and Henrico County. If you have other legal needs in Colonial Heights, consider our services for DUI defense or family law matters.