
Burglary Lawyer Fairfax — What Are Your Defense Options?
Burglary in Fairfax County is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-90, carrying up to life imprisonment. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 501 documented criminal case results in Fairfax County. A burglary lawyer Fairfax from our firm can challenge the prosecution’s evidence on intent and unlawful entry. Contact us 24/7 for a case review.
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. The statute is specific and requires the prosecution to prove each element beyond a reasonable doubt. The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, whose background in accounting provides an edge in cases involving financial evidence.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see Va. Code § 18.2-90 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and filings are handled at the Fairfax County General District Court website.
Defending Burglary Charges in Fairfax County
Fairfax County prosecutors must prove you entered a dwelling at night with criminal intent. A common defense is challenging the evidence of intent or arguing the entry was lawful. The local procedural fact is that Fairfax County General District Court handles all felony preliminary hearings for burglary, while trials occur in Circuit Court.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or charge.
- Your attorney will file for a bond hearing at the Fairfax County General District Court magistrate’s office.
- Your lawyer will obtain and review all discovery, including police reports and any video evidence.
- We will challenge the prosecution’s case at the preliminary hearing in GDC.
- If the case proceeds, we will prepare a defense strategy for Fairfax County Circuit Court, which may include motions to suppress evidence or negotiate a reduction.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Virginia
In Fairfax County, burglary is a Class 3 felony carrying 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000. If armed, penalties increase significantly.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-90) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Burglary while Armed | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | None directly | Mandatory minimum sentences apply. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Burglary Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We have documented 4,739+ case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment. In Fairfax County, we have 501 documented criminal case results.
Kristen M. Fisher, Of Counsel (Former Prosecutor)
Kristen Fisher is a former Assistant State’s Attorney in Maryland. She is barred in Maryland and Virginia. She focuses on criminal defense, including burglary charges, in both state and federal courts. She joined the firm in 2010.
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
Case Results in Fairfax County
Our firm has 501 documented criminal case results in Fairfax County, including 336 dismissed/not guilty outcomes and 143 reduced/amended charges. For example, we secured a reduction from a felony Obtaining Money by False Pretenses charge to a misdemeanor in Fairfax County General District Court. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on complex criminal matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a multi-state practice and a background in accounting systems.
Burglary Defense Lawyer Near Fairfax County
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fairfax County courts. We are a burglary lawyer near Fairfax County, serving neighborhoods including Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Burglary Defense FAQs
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Fairfax County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Fairfax County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Burglary, however, is a felony.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Fairfax County, Virginia?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions, including felony burglary convictions, cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Fairfax County Circuit Court.
How does bail work in Fairfax County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. For a felony like burglary, a secured bond (requiring a bail bondsman who charges ~10%) is typical. Bond can be appealed to Fairfax County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for a burglary charge in Fairfax County?
Yes. Burglary is a felony with severe penalties. Charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Fairfax County courts. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Fairfax can protect your rights and future.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court for a burglary charge?
Fairfax County General District Court handles the felony preliminary hearing for burglary. Fairfax County Circuit Court handles the felony jury trial. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
What should I look for in a burglary charge defense lawyer Fairfax?
Look for experience with felony trials, knowledge of Fairfax County court procedures, and a record of challenging evidence. A lawyer who understands the specific intent required for burglary under Va. Code § 18.2-90 is critical.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Fairfax City and with related charges such as DUI in Fairfax.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.