The common image of a “burglar,” is usually a masked man dressed in black sneaking into a home with a crowbar and a pillowcase. Obviously, this is not always the case.
Burglary means entering a home, building, or vehicle uninvited with the intention of committing a crime, such as theft or assault. It is commonly referred to a trespass to someone else’s property with the intent to commit another crime after the illegal entry.
A person could also be charged with burglary if he or she is invited to a property, but secretly remains after being told to leave. A theft or assault does not actually have to be committed for a burglary charge to be brought against you. If you are facing these charges, you may feel overwhelmed or fearful of the unknown, but the advice and assistance of a West Palm Beach burglary lawyer could help clear this confusion. A defense lawyer can provide you with the legal support and representation you need in order to obtain the best possible result. En Español.
How a Burglary Attorney Could Help
In Florida, burglary is a felony offense that, if convicted, could involve fines, jail, prison, probation, or a combination of these. These offenses are treated relatively severely in this area, especially when someone’s home or residence is involved. Our dedicated lawyers in West Palm Beach can help someone with burglary charges by:
- Determining if you have a valid defense, such as not having criminal intent, having permission to enter the property, or a lack of proof of any of these essential elements;
- Negotiating plea bargains for a reduced sentence and minimized penalties;
- Advising you on the complexities of Florida burglary laws;
- Challenging all of the evidence being brought against you;
- Fighting aggressively to defend you in Court.
Types of Burglary Charges
A West Palm Beach attorney can help those charged with burglary in a variety of cases, including:
- Armed burglary
- Burglary of a Dwelling (occupied or unoccupied)
- Burglary with an assault or battery
- Home invasion burglary
- Burglary of a vehicle (conveyance)
- Burglary of a building (structure)
- Possession of burglary tools
The State of Florida has three degrees of this crime: first degree, second degree, and third degree. These charges depend on whether a person enters an occupied or unoccupied dwelling, building, or vehicle and whether or not a person is armed or commits an assault or battery during the commission of this crime.
Potential Burglary Penalties
Depending on the severity of the crime, a person charged with burglary could face harsh penalties ranging from five years in prison and a fine of $5,000 to life imprisonment and $10,000 in fines (see Florida Statutes Sections 775.082, 775.083, and 775.084.)
Maximum prison sentences depend on the degree of the burglary. For a third degree felony, the maximum sentence is five years; for a second-degree felony, it’s 15 years; and for a first-degree burglary, it could be a life sentence. In Florida, life is life, there is no parole in this State. Even though state law sets these maximum sentences, they are subject to extensions based on a person’s prior felonies, if a person is considered a career criminal or if anyone is injured during the commission of the crime. A lawyer in West Palm Beach could help someone accused of burglary mitigate these potential penalties.
Contact a West Palm Beach Burglary Attorney Today
Being charged with burglary can have a serious impact on your future livelihood and lifestyle. It can affect your job, family life, finances, and take a toll on your emotional well-being. Fortunately, you could have legal options. A West Palm Beach burglary lawyer could offer you the legal support, advice, and assistance you need to help make sure your rights are being protected and that you get the best possible result or outcome. As former prosecutors, we are ready, willing, and able to fight on your behalf so that you can get your life back on track after a burglary charge. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you.