Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed May 25, 2018
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Traditionally, burglary is defined as "a breaking and entering of a dwelling at night with the intent to commit a felony or a larceny (theft) inside." Virginia law recognizes this common law definition. However, the state expands the scope of its burglary laws by categorizing similar offenses as "statutory burglary." These offenses are based on the specific circumstances and the actor's intent during the burglary. For instance, there's one classification of statutory burglary that involves an actor who intends to murder, rob, rape, or commit arson; another classification is for intended larceny, assault and battery, and other felonies.
While it's pivotal to understand every part of a statute (which is the job of an attorney), it's also important to realize that a presentation of the statutes written in everyday language provides a great way to gain basic familiarity with the law. The chart below provides a synopsis of Virginia's burglary laws.
Statutes |
|
Burglary Offenses |
Burglary
Statutory Burglary Intent to commit murder, rape, robbery, or arson
Intent to commit larceny, assault and battery, or other felony
|
Possible Defenses |
|
Related Offenses |
Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
If you've been accused of violating Virginia's burglary laws, then you could be subject to incarceration and costly fines. Anytime your life and livelihood is in jeopardy, you should act in your best interests and talk to a criminal defense attorney to assess your options.
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