Burglary Lawyer Manassas Park — What Are Your Defense Options?
A burglary charge in Manassas Park is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-89, carrying 5 years to life in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for breaking and entering charges. Our burglary lawyer Manassas Park team has documented results in the Manassas Park General District Court. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
Burglary in Virginia is defined by Va. Code § 18.2-89 as breaking and entering the dwelling house of another in the nighttime with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. The statute is strictly construed, meaning the prosecution must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt. This includes the specific intent at the time of entry.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas Park General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-89 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information and procedures can be found at the Manassas Park General District Court website.
Defending a Breaking and Entering Charge in Manassas Park
Defending a burglary charge requires challenging the prosecution’s evidence on each element. Common defenses include lack of intent, mistaken identity, or that the alleged entry did not constitute a “breaking.” In Manassas Park General District Court, prosecutors must move cases from preliminary hearing to Circuit Court for trial. An experienced breaking and entering defense lawyer Manassas Park can identify weaknesses early.
- Initial Consultation: Discuss the arrest details and police report with your attorney immediately.
- Preliminary Hearing: Your attorney will challenge probable cause at the GDC hearing to try and get the felony charge dismissed or reduced.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your defense team will review all evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and any forensic reports.
- Motion Practice: File pre-trial motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or challenge the sufficiency of the charge.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Based on the evidence, your attorney will negotiate for a favorable plea or prepare for a jury trial in Manassas Park Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Virginia
In Manassas Park, burglary under Va. Code § 18.2-89 is a Class 3 felony punishable by 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $100,000. If armed with a deadly weapon, penalties increase.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-89) | Class 3 Felony | 5 – 20 years | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Burglary while Armed (Va. Code § 18.2-90) | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to Life | Up to $100,000 | Mandatory minimum sentences apply. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Manassas Park Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of handling complex felony charges. Our approach is to build a case-specific defense from the first consultation.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
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
Our team, including Mr. Sris who brings a background in accounting and information systems useful in property crime cases, works to protect your rights. We have secured favorable outcomes for clients across Northern Virginia.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Manassas Park Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas Park General District Court (9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110), accessible via Route 28 and I-66. As a burglary charge defense lawyer Manassas Park resource, we are available for residents of Manassas Park and surrounding communities. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only.
Burglary Defense FAQs
What is the difference between burglary and breaking and entering in Virginia?
Yes, there is a key difference. Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-89) requires breaking and entering a dwelling at night with intent to commit a felony. Breaking and entering (Va. Code § 18.2-91) can involve any building, day or night, with intent to commit larceny or a felony, and generally carries lesser penalties.
Can a burglary charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends on the evidence and circumstances. Through negotiation, a felony burglary charge might be reduced to a misdemeanor like unlawful entry or trespassing. This often requires a skilled burglary lawyer Manassas Park to demonstrate weaknesses in the prosecution’s case regarding intent or the nature of the structure.
What should I do if I am arrested for burglary in Manassas Park?
Remain silent and ask for an attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Contact a defense attorney as soon as possible to begin building your defense, especially before the preliminary hearing in Manassas Park General District Court.
What are common defenses to a burglary charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to commit a crime upon entry, mistaken identity, consent to enter the property, or that the alleged “breaking” did not occur (e.g., an open door). An attorney will investigate all possible defenses.
How long does a burglary case take in Manassas Park?
A felony burglary case will start with a preliminary hearing in General District Court within a few months. If bound over, a jury trial in Circuit Court can take 6 months to a year or more, depending on case complexity and court schedules.
Related Legal Services in Manassas Park
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides representation for DUI charges in Manassas Park and criminal defense in Fairfax. For a full overview of our criminal practice, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.