Burglary Lawyer Manassas — What Are Your Defense Options?
Burglary in Manassas is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-89, carrying up to life imprisonment. A burglary lawyer Manassas from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense against breaking and entering charges. Our firm has documented results in Manassas General District Court. Contact us 24/7 for a consultation by appointment.
Virginia Burglary Law and Penalties
Burglary in Virginia is defined by Va. Code § 18.2-89 as breaking and entering a dwelling house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. This is a Class 3 felony, punishable by 5 to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000. A related charge, statutory burglary under § 18.2-91, involves breaking and entering with intent to commit larceny, assault, or other felony, and can be a Class 2, 3, or 4 felony depending on the circumstances and use of a deadly weapon.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
For official statute text, see Va. Code § 18.2-89 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Manassas General District Court website.
Defending Burglary Charges in Manassas Courts
In Manassas General District Court, prosecutors must prove every element of burglary beyond a reasonable doubt. A common defense is challenging the “breaking” element, which can include entering through an unlocked door or open window. Another defense is lack of intent; you must have intended to commit a felony, larceny, or assault at the moment of entry. A burglary charge defense lawyer Manassas can also challenge evidence obtained through unlawful search and seizure.
- Initial Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea at Manassas General District Court (9311 Lee Avenue).
- Preliminary Hearing: For felony burglary, this hearing determines if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will review all evidence and may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Your lawyer will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction (e.g., to trespassing) or prepare for a jury trial in Manassas Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in Manassas
In Manassas, burglary is a felony with penalties ranging from 5 years to life in prison, depending on the specific statute violated and circumstances like use of a deadly weapon.
| 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. |
| Statutory Burglary (Va. Code § 18.2-91) | Class 2, 3, or 4 Felony | 20 years to life (Class 2), 5-20 years (Class 3), 2-10 years (Class 4) | Up to $100,000 | Same as above; enhanced penalties if armed with a deadly weapon. |
| Breaking and Entering (Va. Code § 18.2-92) | Class 6 Felony | 1 – 5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Felony record, though penalties are less severe than burglary. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Criminal Defense in Manassas
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys have a combined 120+ years of legal experience. We have handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into how the other side builds a case. We actively practice in Manassas General District Court and understand the local procedures.
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
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. While specific results vary by case, our approach involves meticulous case review, challenging the prosecution’s evidence on intent and entry, and exploring all options from pre-trial motions to negotiation. 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 Manassas, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas courts (9311 Lee Avenue), accessible via I-66 and Route 28. If you need a burglary lawyer near Manassas or a breaking and entering defense lawyer Manassas, we are available. We serve the Manassas community.
Availability: 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
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 house at night with intent to commit a felony, larceny, or assault. Breaking and entering (Va. Code § 18.2-92) involves entering a building (not necessarily a dwelling) with intent to commit larceny, assault, or other felony, and is generally a less severe Class 6 felony.
Can a burglary charge be reduced in Manassas?
It depends. A skilled burglary charge defense lawyer Manassas can often negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to reduce a felony burglary charge to a misdemeanor like trespassing or unlawful entry, especially for first-time offenders or when evidence of intent is weak. The success of a reduction depends on the case facts and your defense strategy.
What should I do if I am arrested for burglary in Manassas?
First, remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. Contact a burglary lawyer Manassas from our firm at (888) 437-7747. We can advise you on the next steps, including the bond process and your initial court appearance at Manassas General District Court.
Is burglary a felony in Virginia?
Yes. Burglary as defined under Va. Code § 18.2-89 is always a felony—specifically a Class 3 felony, punishable by 5 to 20 years in prison. Even related charges like statutory burglary are felony offenses, though the class and potential prison time can vary.
How long does a burglary case take in Manassas?
A misdemeanor breaking and entering case in Manassas General District Court may take 4-8 weeks from arraignment to trial. A felony burglary case will start with a preliminary hearing in GDC within 21-60 days, then proceed to Manassas Circuit Court, where a jury trial could take 3-9 months or longer to schedule.
Related Legal Resources
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Fairfax County and Prince William County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Manassas DUI Lawyer or Manassas Family Law services.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.