Burglary Lawyer Fairfax County — Defending Against Serious Property Crime Charges
Burglary in Fairfax County is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-89, carrying up to life imprisonment. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 501 documented criminal defense results in Fairfax County. A skilled Burglary Lawyer Fairfax County can challenge the intent element and evidence to seek dismissal or reduction of charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
Burglary is defined under Virginia law as entering a dwelling house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-89, classifies it as a felony. Conviction can result in a prison sentence of five years to life. The prosecution must prove you entered the structure and had the specific intent to commit a crime inside. Defenses often focus on lack of intent, mistaken identity, or unlawful search and seizure.
Fairfax County Court Process for Burglary Charges
Burglary cases in Fairfax County begin with an arrest and bond hearing. The case proceeds to the Fairfax County General District Court for a preliminary hearing, where a judge determines if there is probable cause to certify the felony to the Circuit Court for trial. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Fairfax County prosecutes these cases aggressively.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest to advise on bond and police questioning.
- Your attorney will file for discovery to obtain all prosecution evidence, including police reports and witness statements.
- Challenge the probable cause finding at the preliminary hearing in Fairfax County General District Court.
- If certified, prepare a defense strategy for Fairfax County Circuit Court, which may involve motions to suppress evidence or negotiate a plea.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Fairfax County
In Fairfax County, burglary is a felony punishable by 5 years to life in prison and a fine up to $100,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-89) | Felony | 5 years to life | Up to $100,000 | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, firearm restrictions, difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Statutory Burglary (with weapon/damage) | Felony | Enhanced penalties | Enhanced fines | None directly | Mandatory minimum sentences may apply. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Burglary Defense
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we provide relentless defense. In Fairfax County, we have documented 501 criminal defense results.
Case Results in Fairfax County
Our attorneys have achieved favorable outcomes in Fairfax County courts. For example, we have secured reductions from felony burglary to misdemeanor trespassing charges and successfully argued for the suppression of evidence obtained without proper warrants. In one case, a charge of “Obtain Money on False Pretence > = $200.00 FELONY” was reduced to a misdemeanor disposition.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on complex criminal matters is Kristen M. Fisher, a former Assistant State’s Attorney in Maryland whose prosecutorial experience provides key insights into case strategy.
Burglary Defense Lawyer Near Fairfax County, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fairfax County courts. We represent individuals throughout Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area. Contact us for a burglary lawyer near Fairfax County.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Fairfax County Burglary Lawyer FAQ
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. Cases are heard at Fairfax County General District Court.
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 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. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Fairfax County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry jail time and create a permanent record. Contact a Burglary Legal Counsel Fairfax County for a case evaluation.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Fairfax County?
Fairfax County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Fairfax County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing burglary charges, you need a dedicated criminal defense lawyer in Fairfax. For charges related to theft, learn about a petit larceny lawyer in Fairfax County. For broader defense needs, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.