Burglary Defense Lawyer in Fauquier County, Virginia
A burglary charge in Fauquier County 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 strategy for breaking and entering charges. Our burglary defense lawyer Fauquier County team is available 24/7. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fauquier County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
Burglary in Virginia is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-90. It involves breaking and entering a dwelling house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. A related charge, statutory burglary under § 18.2-91, covers breaking and entering any building with similar intent, day or night. These are Class 3 felonies, punishable by 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000. If armed with a deadly weapon, it becomes a Class 2 felony with a mandatory minimum sentence. Your case will be heard at the Fauquier County General District Court for preliminary hearings and the Fauquier County Circuit Court for trial.
- Secure immediate legal representation after arrest.
- Your attorney will review the warrant and police reports for procedural errors.
- We will file motions to suppress evidence obtained unlawfully.
- We negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to reduce or dismiss charges.
- If necessary, we prepare a vigorous defense for trial in Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Fauquier County
In Fauquier County, burglary is a felony with penalties ranging from 5 years to life imprisonment, depending on the specific circumstances and use of a weapon.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-90) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | No direct impact | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment/housing |
| Statutory Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-91) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | No direct impact | Same as above |
| Burglary while Armed | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life (mandatory min.) | Up to $100,000 | No direct impact | Enhanced penalties, violent felony designation |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Fauquier County Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the high stakes of a felony burglary charge and the specific procedures of Fauquier County courts.
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, including former prosecutor Kristen Fisher, works collaboratively. We have documented results in Fauquier County, including cases where charges were reduced or amended. Results may vary.
Local Defense Near You
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fauquier County courts (6 Court Street, Warrenton). We are accessible via I-66, Route 29, and Route 17. As your nearby burglary defense lawyer Fauquier County, we serve Warrenton, New Baltimore, Bealeton, Marshall, and The Plains.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Fauquier County Burglary Defense FAQs
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 breaking and entering a dwelling at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. Breaking and entering (Va. Code § 18.2-91) applies to any building, day or night, with the same criminal intent. Both are felonies, but the specific circumstances change the charge.
Can a burglary charge be reduced in Fauquier County?
It depends. A skilled burglary charge defense lawyer Fauquier County can negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Factors include your criminal history, the specifics of the alleged act, and the strength of the evidence. Reductions to misdemeanor trespass or unlawful entry are possible in some cases, avoiding a lifelong felony record.
What should I do if I am arrested for burglary in Fauquier County?
First, remain silent and ask for a lawyer. Do not discuss the case with anyone. Contact a burglary defense lawyer Fauquier County immediately. Your attorney will guide you through the process at Fauquier County General District Court, protect your rights, and begin building your defense strategy from the start.
Is intent necessary for a burglary conviction?
Yes. The prosecution must prove you intended to commit a felony, larceny, or assault at the moment you entered. This is a critical element that a defense attorney can challenge. Without proof of this specific intent, a conviction for burglary cannot stand.
How long does a burglary case take in Fauquier County?
A misdemeanor trial in General District Court may take 4-8 weeks. A felony case starts with a preliminary hearing in GDC within 21-60 days, then moves to Circuit Court for a jury trial, which can take 3-9 months or longer. Virginia’s speedy trial rules apply.
Facing a breaking and entering charge is serious. Contact a burglary defense lawyer Fauquier County at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a case evaluation. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer. Also see our work in Fairfax County and for DUI Defense in Fauquier County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.