Burglary Defense Lawyer Hanover County — Protecting Your Rights
A burglary charge in Hanover County is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-90, carrying severe penalties. As a burglary defense lawyer Hanover County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for clients facing breaking and entering charges. Our Richmond location serves Hanover County courts. Call 24/7 for a consultation.
Last verified: April 2026 | Hanover County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
Burglary in Virginia is defined by Va. Code § 18.2-90 as entering a dwelling house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. A related charge, statutory burglary under § 18.2-91, involves entering a dwelling in the daytime with the same intent. Both are Class 3 felonies, punishable by 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000. The severity increases if the accused is armed with a deadly weapon, which elevates the charge to a Class 2 felony with a potential life sentence. The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you entered the structure without permission and had the specific intent to commit a crime inside. Defenses often challenge the evidence of intent or the legality of the entry.
For official statute text, see Va. Code § 18.2-90 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Hanover County General District Court website.
- Secure immediate legal representation after arrest or charge.
- Your attorney will obtain and review all police reports and evidence.
- File pre-trial motions to challenge evidence or suppress statements.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or dismissal.
- Prepare for trial in Hanover County Circuit Court if a plea cannot be reached.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Hanover County
In Hanover County, burglary is a felony with penalties ranging from 5 years to life in prison, depending on the specific circumstances and whether a weapon was involved.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-90) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Statutory Burglary (Daytime) (§ 18.2-91) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Same as above. |
| Burglary while Armed | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Mandatory minimum sentences apply. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Hanover County Criminal Defense
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 firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the high stakes of a felony burglary charge and the specific procedures of the Hanover County court system. Our approach is built on thorough case investigation and strategic defense planning.
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 Defense Strategy
In Hanover County, we have documented case results defending clients against serious charges. Every case is unique, but our focus is always on protecting our clients’ futures. A burglary charge defense lawyer Hanover County from our team will examine all aspects of your case, from the legality of the investigation to the strength of the evidence against you. We explore all avenues, including challenging the prosecution’s proof of intent, filing motions to suppress evidence, and negotiating for reduced charges when appropriate. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Burglary Defense Lawyer Near Hanover County, VA
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Hanover County courts (7507 Library Drive). We represent individuals in Mechanicsville, Ashland, Atlee, Beaverdam, and Doswell. Our office is accessible via I-95, I-295, Route 1, Route 301, and Route 33.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Burglary Charges in Hanover 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 (Va. Code § 18.2-91) can involve any building, day or night, with the same criminal intent. Both are felonies, but the specific elements and potential penalties differ.
Can a burglary charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends on the facts of the case and the strength of the evidence. A skilled burglary defense lawyer Hanover County may negotiate with the prosecutor to amend the charge to a lesser offense like trespassing or petit larceny, which are misdemeanors. Factors include your criminal history, the circumstances of the alleged offense, and the evidence against you.
What are common defenses to a burglary charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent (you entered for a non-criminal purpose), mistaken identity, lack of evidence proving you were the person who entered, an illegal search and seizure that violated your rights, or permission to enter the property. A breaking and entering defense lawyer Hanover County will investigate to identify the strongest defense for your situation.
Do I need a lawyer for a burglary charge in Hanover County?
Yes. Burglary is a felony with life-altering consequences, including decades in prison. The Hanover County Commonwealth’s Attorney vigorously prosecutes these cases. An experienced burglary charge defense lawyer Hanover County is essential to protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and work toward the best possible outcome.
What court handles burglary cases in Hanover County?
Burglary, as a felony, begins with a preliminary hearing in Hanover County General District Court. If the judge finds probable cause, the case is sent to Hanover County Circuit Court for a jury trial. All felony trials and sentencing occur in Circuit Court.
Contact a Hanover County Burglary Defense Attorney
If you are facing a burglary investigation or charge in Hanover County, contact us immediately. The sooner we begin building your defense, the better. We offer 24/7 phone consultations. For related legal help in the area, see our pages on Henrico County criminal defense and Hanover County DUI defense. Learn more about our firm’s approach on our Virginia criminal defense hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. Information subject to change.