Burglary Lawyer Greene County — Defending Against Breaking and Entering Charges
A burglary charge in Greene 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 for breaking and entering charges in Greene County General District and Circuit Courts. Our burglary lawyer Greene County team has documented results defending clients in Stanardsville and Ruckersville.
Last verified: April 2026 | Greene County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
In Virginia, burglary is defined as entering a dwelling house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-90, classifies this as a Class 3 felony. A related charge, statutory burglary under § 18.2-91, involves breaking and entering with intent to commit various crimes and can be a felony or misdemeanor depending on the circumstances. These charges are prosecuted aggressively by the Greene County Commonwealth’s Attorney.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience. Our background in accounting and information systems provides a unique advantage in cases involving financial evidence or digital forensics.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia’s burglary statutes, refer to the Virginia General Assembly website (Va. Code § 18.2-90). Court information for Greene County can be found on the Virginia Courts website for Greene County.
Defending a Burglary Case in Greene County
The key to defending a burglary charge often lies in challenging the prosecution’s evidence of intent. In Greene County General District Court, prosecutors must prove you intended to commit a crime at the time of entry. Our local insight helps build a strong defense strategy.
- Initial Consultation & Case Review: Contact our office immediately after arrest or charge. We review all police reports, witness statements, and evidence.
- Investigation & Evidence Gathering: We conduct an independent investigation, which may include visiting the alleged scene, interviewing witnesses, and examining forensic evidence.
- Pre-Trial Motions: We file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or challenge the sufficiency of the prosecution’s case, often in Greene County General District Court.
- Negotiation or Trial: We engage in plea negotiations with the prosecutor. If a fair offer isn’t reached, we are prepared to take the case to a jury trial in Greene County Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Greene County
In Greene County, burglary is a Class 3 felony carrying 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000. Statutory burglary penalties vary based on the intended crime.
| 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. |
| Statutory Burglary (with intent to commit misdemeanor) | Class 6 Felony | 1 – 5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Felony record, collateral consequences. |
| Breaking and Entering (unlawful entry without intent) | Class 6 Felony or Class 1 Misdemeanor | Varies | Varies | None directly | Serious criminal record. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Greene County 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 a case. We have a documented record of defending clients in Greene County. Kristen Fisher, a former Assistant State’s Attorney in Maryland, brings firsthand prosecutorial experience to building strong defenses for burglary and breaking and entering charges.
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 and Client Advocacy
Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In Greene County, we have documented results defending clients against serious charges. Every case is unique, and we dedicate our resources to seeking the best possible outcome, whether through dismissal, reduction of charges, or acquittal at trial.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Burglary Defense Lawyer Near Greene County, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients in Greene County. We are accessible via Route 29 and Route 33. We provide legal representation for residents of Stanardsville and Ruckersville facing burglary and breaking and entering charges.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Burglary Charges in Greene County
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 entering a dwelling at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. Breaking and entering or statutory burglary (§ 18.2-91) involves entering any building with intent to commit various crimes, including misdemeanors, and can occur at any time. The penalties and defense strategies differ significantly.
Can a burglary charge be reduced in Greene County?
It depends on the evidence and circumstances. A skilled burglary charge defense lawyer Greene County can negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Potential reductions might be to unlawful entry, trespass, or a lesser felony. Success often hinges on challenging the proof of criminal intent or the value of any property involved.
What should I do if I am arrested for burglary in Greene County?
First, remain silent and ask for a lawyer. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. Contact a burglary lawyer Greene County immediately. Your attorney will guide you through the process at the Greene County General District Court and protect your rights during questioning and bail hearings.
Is intent necessary for a burglary conviction?
Yes. Intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault at the moment of entry is a required element for burglary under § 18.2-90. For statutory burglary under § 18.2-91, intent to commit a misdemeanor or other crime is required. A defense often focuses on creating reasonable doubt about this intent.
What are the long-term consequences of a burglary conviction?
A felony conviction results in a permanent criminal record, severely limiting employment, housing, and professional licensing opportunities. You will lose the right to vote and possess firearms. You may also face difficulties obtaining loans or security clearances. A strong defense is crucial to avoid these lifelong penalties.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing other criminal charges in Greene County, our firm also provides defense for DUI charges and reckless driving. For a broader overview of our criminal defense practice, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Fairfax County.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for the most current legal guidance regarding burglary charges in Virginia.