Burglary Defense Lawyer in Fauquier County, Virginia
A burglary charge in Fauquier County is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-90, punishable by up to life in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those accused of breaking and entering. Our burglary defense lawyer Fauquier County team, including former prosecutors, understands the local court procedures at the Fauquier County General District Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fauquier County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Burglary in Virginia is defined by statute as entering a dwelling house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. The law is detailed in Va. Code § 18.2-90. A conviction carries severe penalties, including a lengthy prison sentence and a permanent felony record. The charge is prosecuted by the Fauquier County Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard in the Fauquier County General District Court for preliminary hearings and the Fauquier County Circuit Court for trials.
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
Fauquier County General District Court handles all felony preliminary hearings for burglary charges. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Fauquier County prosecutes these cases aggressively. A skilled breaking and entering defense lawyer Fauquier County can challenge the evidence of intent, which is a required element for a burglary conviction. The defense may also question the legality of the entry or the identification of the accused.
- Secure immediate legal representation after an arrest or charge.
- Your attorney will review all police reports, witness statements, and evidence.
- A preliminary hearing will be scheduled in Fauquier County General District Court.
- Your lawyer may file pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or challenge the charge.
- If the case proceeds, a felony trial will be held in Fauquier County Circuit Court.
- Your attorney will present your defense and advocate for the best possible outcome.
In Fauquier County, burglary is a Class 3 felony carrying 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000. If the perpetrator is armed, penalties increase significantly.
| 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 | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Burglary while Armed | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | None | Mandatory minimum sentences apply. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have documented results in jurisdictions across Virginia, including Fauquier County. Our approach is informed by former prosecutors like Kristen Fisher, who understand how the other side builds a case. For a burglary charge defense lawyer Fauquier County residents can rely on, our experience is critical.
Our firm has handled thousands of criminal cases. In Fauquier County, we focus on building a defense that addresses the specific allegations of breaking and entering.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fauquier County courts. We are your local burglary defense lawyer Fauquier County resource, accessible via I-66, Route 29, and Route 17. We serve communities including Warrenton, New Baltimore, Bealeton, Marshall, and The Plains.
Fauquier County Burglary Defense FAQs
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Fauquier County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Fauquier County 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 Fauquier County General District Court (6 Court Street, Warrenton, VA 20186). 1 documented results: 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
Can criminal charges be expunged in Fauquier 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 Fauquier County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 1 documented results: 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
How does bail work in Fauquier County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Fauquier County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Fauquier County 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 Fauquier County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Fauquier County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Fauquier County General District Court (6 Court Street, Warrenton, VA 20186). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 1 documented results: 1 reduced/amended (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 Fauquier County?
Fauquier County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Fauquier County 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. Fauquier County General District Court (6 Court Street, Warrenton, VA 20186) is the GDC location.
For related legal help, see our pages for a Fauquier County DUI lawyer or a Fauquier County family law attorney. For an overview of our criminal defense practice, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub. We also serve neighboring areas like Fairfax County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current guidance.