Burglary Lawyer New Kent County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A burglary charge in New Kent 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 documented results defending clients at the New Kent County General District Court. A burglary lawyer New Kent County from our firm can challenge the prosecution’s evidence, including intent and unlawful entry.
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
In Virginia, burglary is defined by statute as entering a dwelling house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. The severity of the charge and its penalties depend on the specific circumstances, such as whether the building was occupied and if a weapon was involved.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Burglary is prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-89 (statutory burglary) and related sections. These cases are heard in the New Kent County General District Court for preliminary hearings and move to Circuit Court for trial. The firm’s founder, a former prosecutor, brings a strategic understanding of how these charges are built and can be contested.
- Initial Consultation & Case Analysis: Contact our firm immediately after an arrest or charge. We review all police reports, witness statements, and evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Preliminary Hearing Strategy: For felony burglary, a hearing in New Kent County General District Court determines if there is probable cause to proceed. We may challenge the evidence presented here.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiation: We file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence and negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to seek a reduction of charges, such as from burglary to trespass.
- Trial Preparation: If the case proceeds to a jury trial in New Kent County Circuit Court, we build a strong defense, which may include alibi evidence, lack of intent, or mistaken identity.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in New Kent County
In New Kent County, statutory burglary under Va. Code § 18.2-89 is a Class 3 felony punishable by 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000. Enhanced penalties apply for armed burglary or if the building was occupied.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Statutory Burglary (Dwelling) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty securing employment/housing. |
| Burglary with Intent to Commit Murder, Rape, Robbery, or Arson | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | Same as above, with mandatory minimum sentences. |
| Breaking and Entering (Commercial) | Class 6 Felony | 1 – 5 years (or up to 12 months jail) | Up to $2,500 | Felony record, though penalties are less severe than dwelling burglary. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Burglary Charge Defense
Founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our approach to a burglary charge defense lawyer New Kent County representation is grounded in a deep understanding of Virginia criminal law and local court procedures. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients through dismissals, charge reductions, and acquittals. Our firm-wide case results exceed 4,739 matters with a favorable outcome rate over 93%.
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 includes seasoned attorneys like Mr. Sris, the firm’s managing attorney and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, which is particularly valuable in cases involving alleged theft or property crimes. We use this collective experience to scrutinize every detail of your case.
Local Representation for New Kent County Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond Location
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Our Richmond location serves clients throughout New Kent County, including the communities of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton. We are accessible via I-64 and Route 33, providing convenient access for meetings. As a burglary lawyer near New Kent County, we offer 24/7 phone consultations — call (888) 437-7747 — with meetings scheduled by appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions: Burglary Defense in New Kent County
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) to commit a misdemeanor. The penalties for burglary are significantly more severe.
Can a burglary charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends on the facts and the strength of the defense. A skilled burglary charge defense lawyer New Kent County can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce a felony burglary charge to a misdemeanor like trespassing or unlawful entry, especially for first-time offenders or where the evidence of intent is weak. This avoids a permanent felony record.
What are common defenses to a burglary charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent (you had permission to enter or entered by mistake), mistaken identity, insufficient evidence, an alibi, or challenging the legality of the police investigation (e.g., an illegal search). A breaking and entering defense lawyer New Kent County will investigate all possible angles.
Do I need a lawyer for a burglary charge in New Kent County?
Yes. Burglary is a serious felony with life-altering penalties. The Commonwealth’s Attorney will vigorously prosecute the case. An experienced burglary lawyer New Kent County is essential to protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and work toward the best possible outcome, which could mean freedom versus years in prison.
What happens at a preliminary hearing for burglary?
The preliminary hearing in New Kent County General District Court is where 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 witnesses and potentially get the charge dismissed if the evidence is insufficient.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you are facing other charges, explore our services for DUI defense in New Kent County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. For the most current advice regarding your specific situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.