Burglary is an offense that entails the entry into another individual’s dwelling or structure with the intention to commit a crime once inside. The entry itself must also be unlawful, whether entering through an unlocked door without permission or by breaking in.
Burglary, theft, shoplifting, and robbery all involve different charges and therefore, different penalties. A Boca Raton burglary lawyer knows the nuances of the laws surrounding burglary offenses as well as the possible defenses to seek the best possible outcome depending on the circumstances of a case. Seek the services of a dedicated theft attorney that could fight for you.
Possible Penalties for Burglary
In Boca Raton, there are three types of burglary charges, and each type dictates a different amount of potential fines and time in jail or prison. If the alleged burglary took place in a structure—as in something that is being constructed or going to be constructed—or a conveyance—which is anything that is not inhabited such as an aircraft, train car, motor vehicle, or water vessel—the offense may be considered a Third-Degree Felony. The penalties for this type of Felony may include a prison sentence of up to five years, plus relevant court and reparation costs.
If the alleged burglary occurred in a dwelling, the offense may be categorized as a second-degree felony. A dwelling is any structure that is inhabited. The penalties for this classification of crime may include a prison sentence of up to 15 years and fines of up to $10,000. Further charges may also be levied against the individual if there was theft of an item or items of value, property damage, assault, and/or battery at the time of the alleged burglary.
The most severe type of burglary is an armed burglary, which is a first-degree felony and may automatically result in ten to 20 years in prison, at minimum. The individual may receive a prison sentence of up to 30 years, depending upon the context of the alleged offense.
All cases are unique and require different strategies to yield the most positive outcome, and a Boca Raton burglary lawyer has the experience and the knowledge to create customized defense tactics for each individual.
Building a Burglary Defense
When someone faces burglary charges, they may benefit from the step-by-step assistance and guidance a Boca Raton burglary attorney can offer. Burglary lawyers have the experience and expertise to combat the prosecutor’s case and therefore provide the best possible outcome.
Specifically, Boca Raton burglary attorneys could build a defense by:
- Evaluating possible psychological or psychiatric causes for the accused individual’s behavior
- Evaluating if the search and seizure of evidence conducted by law enforcement was done so in a legal manner
- Evaluating whether any incriminating admissions and/or statements were made by the accused and if so, if those statements were obtained in a legal manner by law enforcement
- Evaluating whether the accused individual was made aware of their constitutional rights prior to making any statements to law enforcement
Contacting a Boca Raton Burglary Attorney
If you are facing burglary charges, contact a Boca Raton burglary defense lawyer today to explore what your options are moving forward. Burglary is a felony in Florida and can result in hefty fines and life-altering prison sentences. With the right legal representation, you may have a chance at defending your case.
Therefore, it is important to begin building a defense as soon as possible. If you are facing charges, call our aggressive Boca Raton burglary lawyers who can help you fully understand the charges you are facing and your options moving forward.
