Chesapeake VA Burglary Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Burglary in Chesapeake is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-89, punishable by up to life imprisonment. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record. A Chesapeake VA burglary lawyer from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense. Our firm has documented results in Chesapeake courts. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
Burglary is defined in Virginia 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 Class 3 felony. If the perpetrator is armed with a deadly weapon, the charge escalates to statutory burglary while armed under § 18.2-90, also a felony. These are among the most severe property crime charges you can face.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience handling complex criminal cases like burglary. Mr. Sris’s background in accounting and information systems provides a unique advantage in cases involving financial evidence or digital trails.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s burglary statutes, visit the official Virginia General Assembly website. For information on Chesapeake court procedures, you can review the Chesapeake General District Court website.
Handling a Burglary Case in Chesapeake Court
In Chesapeake, burglary cases begin with an arrest and bond hearing before a magistrate. The case then proceeds to Chesapeake General District Court for a preliminary hearing to determine probable cause. A key local procedural fact is that all felony trials, including for burglary, are held in Chesapeake Circuit Court, not General District Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Chesapeake prosecutes these cases aggressively.
- Secure legal representation immediately after arrest or upon learning of charges.
- Your Chesapeake VA burglary lawyer will file for a bond hearing and argue for your release.
- Your attorney will review all evidence, including police reports and witness statements, in the discovery phase.
- Your lawyer will file pre-trial motions, which may challenge the legality of evidence or the sufficiency of the charge.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a potential plea to a lesser offense, if strategically advisable.
- If no agreement is reached, prepare for and proceed to a jury trial in Chesapeake Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Chesapeake
In Chesapeake, burglary is a Class 3 felony carrying 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000. If armed, penalties increase to a mandatory minimum sentence.
| 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 directly | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Statutory Burglary While Armed (§ 18.2-90) | Felony | Mandatory minimum; 5 years to life | Up to $100,000 | None directly | Same as above, with enhanced sentencing under guidelines. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, giving us insight into how the other side builds cases. We have a documented result in Chesapeake: 1 case dismissed or found not guilty, representing a 100% favorable outcome rate for that locality. Our firm-wide favorable outcome rate is over 93% across thousands of cases.
For complex criminal defense strategy, Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, often collaborates on cases. Mr. Sris is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, DC, New Jersey, and New York, and personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our approach to property crime defense is thorough and proactive. We have secured dismissals and favorable reductions for clients facing serious charges. Every case is unique, and we develop a strategy based on the specific facts and evidence.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Burglary Defense Lawyer Near Chesapeake, VA
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges in Chesapeake courts. We are accessible via I-64, I-464, and Route 168. We provide legal representation for residents of Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Ste 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 | Local: (804) 201-9009
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Chesapeake, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake General District Court (307 Albemarle Drive).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Chesapeake, 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 Chesapeake Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Chesapeake, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Chesapeake. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Chesapeake General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Chesapeake, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Chesapeake are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. A burglary charges lawyer can protect your rights and work toward the best possible outcome.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Chesapeake?
Chesapeake General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Chesapeake 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, like burglary.
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense hub. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and with related charges like DUI in Chesapeake.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.