Burglary Defense Lawyer Arlington County — What Are Your Defense Options?
Burglary in Arlington County is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-89, punishable by up to life imprisonment. A burglary defense lawyer Arlington County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. is essential to challenge the prosecution’s evidence of unlawful entry and intent. Our firm has documented results defending clients at the Arlington County General District and Circuit Courts.
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
Burglary in Virginia is defined by Va. Code § 18.2-89 as breaking and entering the dwelling house of another in the nighttime with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. The statute is specific and requires the prosecution to prove each element beyond a reasonable doubt. The classification and penalties are severe, reflecting the gravity of the offense against a person’s home.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County 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 how to defend against them.
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 Arlington County cases are handled through the Arlington County General District Court website.
Arlington County Court Process for Burglary Charges
In Arlington County, a burglary charge begins with an arrest and an initial appearance before a magistrate. The case then proceeds to the Arlington County General District Court for a preliminary hearing, where the Commonwealth must show probable cause. If bound over, the felony trial occurs in Arlington County Circuit Court. Prosecutors here rigorously pursue these charges.
- Initial Appearance & Bond Hearing: A magistrate sets bond after arrest. For felonies like burglary, secured bond is typical.
- Preliminary Hearing (GDC): The Commonwealth presents evidence at Arlington County General District Court to establish probable cause for the felony charge.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If bound over, you are formally charged and enter a plea in Arlington County Circuit Court.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence and challenges the prosecution’s case through detailed discovery.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Based on the strength of the defense, your attorney will negotiate for a reduction or proceed to a jury trial.
- Sentencing (if applicable): If convicted, sentencing arguments are made to minimize the severe penalties associated with burglary.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Arlington County
In Arlington County, burglary under Va. Code § 18.2-89 is a Class 3 felony, carrying a potential penalty of 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000. If the offender is armed with a deadly weapon, it becomes a Class 2 felony (20 years to life).
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-89) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty securing employment/housing. |
| Burglary while Armed | Class 2 Felony | 20 years – Life | Up to $100,000 | Same as above, with significantly enhanced mandatory minimum sentences likely. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Arlington County Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In Arlington County, we have a documented history of achieving dismissals and favorable reductions for clients facing serious charges. Our team understands the local court procedures and the strategies employed by the Arlington Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office.
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
Our lead attorney for complex criminal and federal matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor. With a background in accounting and information systems, he offers a unique advantage in cases involving complex evidence. He personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute (Va. Code § 20-107.3), demonstrating a deep commitment to impactful legal advocacy.
Case Results in Arlington County
Our approach has yielded documented results in Arlington County courts. For example, we have secured dismissals (nolle prosequi) for charges such as Destruction of Property and Fare Evasion in Arlington County General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Burglary Defense Lawyer Near Arlington County, VA
Our Arlington location is strategically positioned to serve clients at the Arlington County courts. We represent individuals throughout the area, including the neighborhoods of Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington.
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.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Burglary Defense in Arlington County
What is the difference between burglary and breaking and entering in Virginia?
Yes, there is a major difference. Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-89) requires breaking and entering a dwelling house 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 or felony, and is generally a Class 6 felony. The penalties for burglary are significantly more severe.
Can a burglary charge be reduced in Arlington County?
It depends on the evidence and your defense. A skilled breaking and entering defense lawyer Arlington County can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce a burglary charge to a lesser offense like trespassing or unlawful entry, which carry lower penalties. Success depends on challenging the evidence of “intent” and “breaking.”
What are common defenses to a burglary charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to commit a crime, mistaken identity, lawful right to be present, lack of a “breaking” (e.g., door was unlocked), or insufficient evidence. An experienced burglary defense lawyer Arlington County will investigate all avenues, including police procedure errors and witness credibility.
Do I need a lawyer for a burglary charge in Arlington County?
Yes. Burglary is a serious felony with life-altering penalties. The Arlington Commonwealth’s Attorney vigorously prosecutes these cases. A public defender may be available if you qualify, but a private burglary charge defense lawyer Arlington County can provide dedicated, strategic defense crucial for the best possible outcome.
What court handles burglary cases in Arlington County?
Burglary cases begin with a preliminary hearing at the Arlington County General District Court (1425 N. Courthouse Rd). If bound over, the felony jury trial is held at the Arlington County Circuit Court. A lawyer experienced in both courts is essential.
Internal Resources: For more information on related charges, see our pages on Virginia Criminal Defense, Criminal Defense in Alexandria, and DUI Defense in Arlington County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.