Burglary Defense Lawyer in Lexington, Virginia
Burglary in Lexington is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-90, carrying 5 years to life. A burglary defense lawyer Lexington from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides critical defense against these charges. Our firm has documented results in Lexington courts. We offer 24/7 consultations at (888) 437-7747.
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
Burglary in Virginia 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. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Lexington can explain how these factors apply to your case.
Last verified: April 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the burglary statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-90 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and filings for Lexington are handled through the Lexington General District Court website.
Local Court Process for a Burglary Charge
In Lexington, a burglary charge begins with an arrest and an initial appearance before a magistrate. The case is then bound over to the Lexington Circuit Court for felony proceedings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney will present evidence to a grand jury for an indictment. A burglary charge defense lawyer Lexington must immediately begin investigating the prosecution’s evidence, including any witness statements, forensic reports, and the legality of the arrest.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or upon learning of a warrant.
- Your attorney will file for a bond hearing in Lexington General District Court.
- The defense will conduct a thorough investigation, challenging search warrants and witness identifications.
- Your lawyer will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, seeking reduction of charges or exploring pre-trial diversion if applicable.
- If no plea agreement is reached, prepare for a jury trial in Lexington Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Lexington
In Lexington, burglary under Va. Code § 18.2-90 is a Class 3 felony punishable by 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000. If the dwelling was occupied, it becomes a Class 2 felony with a potential life sentence.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Unoccupied) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | None | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty securing employment/housing. |
| Burglary (Occupied) | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | None | Same as above, with significantly enhanced penalties and mandatory minimums likely. |
| Statutory Burglary (with weapon) | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | None | Use of a firearm may trigger additional mandatory consecutive sentences. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Defense Experience
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 team understands the high stakes of a felony burglary charge. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes for clients across Virginia. Our approach is to build a strong, evidence-based defense from the outset.
Case Results
Our firm has a documented record of successful outcomes in criminal cases. In Lexington and surrounding jurisdictions, our strategic defense has led to favorable results for clients facing serious charges. We carefully analyze every detail of the prosecution’s evidence.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Contact Our Lexington Burglary Defense Lawyers
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 | Local: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Lexington courts. We are accessible via I-64 and I-81. We are a burglary defense lawyer Lexington near Virginia Military Institute (VMI) and Washington and Lee University. We serve the Lexington community. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Lexington, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Lexington carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450). 14 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate)
Can criminal charges be expunged in Lexington, Virginia?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Lexington Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 14 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate)
How does bail work in Lexington, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Lexington. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Lexington General District Court. Bond amount set by magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%); public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony)
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Lexington, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Lexington are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 14 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate) Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a Consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Lexington?
Lexington General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Lexington Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time. Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450) is the GDC location.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Lexington DUI Lawyer services.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.