Burglary Lawyer Bedford County — Defending Against Breaking and Entering Charges
Burglary in Bedford 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 4 documented results in Bedford County. A burglary lawyer Bedford County can challenge evidence and intent. Contact us 24/7 for a consultation by appointment.
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
In Virginia, burglary is defined as entering a dwelling house at night with the intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-89, classifies it as a Class 3 felony. A related charge, statutory burglary under § 18.2-91, involves breaking and entering with similar intent and can be a Class 3 or Class 6 felony depending on the circumstances. These charges are prosecuted by the Bedford County Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Bedford County Circuit Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | Bedford County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s burglary statutes, refer to the official Virginia General Assembly website. Court information, including forms and procedures for Bedford County, can be found on the Bedford County Circuit Court website.
Defending a Burglary Charge in Bedford County
Bedford County General District Court handles preliminary hearings for felony burglary charges, while Bedford County Circuit Court conducts the jury trials. Prosecutors must prove you entered a dwelling at night with the specific intent to commit a crime inside. A burglary charge defense lawyer Bedford County can attack the evidence on intent, unlawful entry, or identification. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Bedford County prosecutes these cases aggressively.
- Arraignment & Bond Hearing: Your first appearance in Bedford County General District Court to hear the formal charge and argue for pre-trial release.
- Preliminary Hearing: A hearing where the prosecution must show probable cause that a burglary occurred and you committed it. This is a key stage for a breaking and entering defense lawyer Bedford County to challenge the case.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If the case is certified to Circuit Court, you will be arraigned again and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence and obtains all police reports, witness statements, and forensic evidence from the prosecution.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Based on the evidence, your attorney negotiates with the prosecutor for a reduction or dismissal, or prepares for a jury trial in Bedford County Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Virginia
In Bedford County, burglary as a Class 3 felony carries a prison sentence of 5 to 20 years and a fine up to $100,000. Statutory burglary can be a Class 3 or Class 6 felony (1-5 years, or up to 12 months).
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-89) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | None | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Statutory Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-91) | Class 3 or Class 6 Felony | 1 – 20 years (or up to 12 mos.) | Up to $100,000 | None | Same as above; severity depends on time of day, type of building, and intent. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Bedford County 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 handling serious felony charges in central Virginia. Our approach is grounded in a thorough investigation and aggressive defense strategy from the outset.
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 in Bedford County
Our firm has documented results in Bedford County courts. In one case, a charge of computer solicitation of a minor in Bedford County Circuit Court resulted in a favorable bond outcome. In another, an underage alcohol possession charge in Bedford County Juvenile & Domestic Relations Court was dismissed upon completion of community service. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our team, including former prosecutor Kristen Fisher, works collaboratively to analyze police procedures and evidence. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Bedford County Burglary Defense Lawyer Near You
Our Shenandoah/Woodstock location serves clients at the Bedford County courts (123 East Main Street, Suite 202). We are accessible via Route 460, Route 122, and other major highways. If you are searching for a “burglary lawyer near Bedford” or legal help near Smith Mountain Lake, we are here to assist.
We serve the communities of Bedford, Forest, Smith Mountain Lake, and Moneta.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
505 N Main St #103
Woodstock, VA 22664
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
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 house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. Breaking and entering, often called statutory burglary (§ 18.2-91), involves entering any building (day or night) with the same criminal intent. The penalties and elements of proof differ, making the specific charge critical.
Can you go to jail for a first-time burglary charge in Bedford County?
Yes. Burglary is a felony with mandatory prison time upon conviction. A Class 3 felony carries a statutory minimum of 5 years in prison. Even for a first offense, the court must impose an active sentence, though the length may be influenced by mitigating factors and defense advocacy.
What should I do if I am investigated for burglary in Bedford County?
It depends. First, exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Do not speak to police without a burglary lawyer Bedford County present. Contact a defense lawyer who can communicate with investigators on your behalf, potentially preventing formal charges or securing more favorable terms if an arrest occurs.
What defenses are available against a burglary charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to commit a crime inside the building, mistaken identity, unlawful search and seizure of evidence, or permission to enter the property. A burglary charge defense lawyer Bedford County will examine all evidence, including police reports and witness statements, to identify the strongest defense for your case.
How long does a burglary case take in Bedford County?
A felony burglary case typically takes 3 to 9 months from arrest to resolution in Bedford County Circuit Court. The process includes a preliminary hearing in General District Court, grand jury indictment, pre-trial motions, and potentially a jury trial. Complex cases or those involving extensive evidence may take longer.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing criminal charges in Virginia, you may also find our resources useful: Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer. For defense in nearby areas, see our pages for Shenandoah County and Augusta County. For other legal needs in Bedford County, we also assist with DUI charges and family law matters.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For the most current advice regarding your specific situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.