Charged with Burglary? Fort Lauderdale Criminal Lawyer Explains the Penalties

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement reports that burglary is among the top crimes in Florida. Burglary is a serious criminal offense and, if convicted, you could end up spending time in prison.

Under the Florida Law S810.02, burglary is defined as sneaking into a structure to commit a crime. You could also be charged with burglary if you enter a dwelling with the intent to commit a crime and without invitation. Florida’s law also includes a variety of offenses that are classified under burglary. Therefore, it is critical to have quality legal representation from a knowledgeable criminal lawyer in Fort Lauderdale.

What Warrants a Burglary Charge?

A burglary can happen under different circumstances, including:

• A young person gets pressured into breaking and stealing.
• A person is using a weapon to threaten people in a house and stealing from them.

The court determines the severity of the charges depending on the circumstances. Serious felonies attract up to 30 years in prison.

It is important to note that even if you only enter the yard and do not steal anything, you can be charged with the offense. A burglary can be charged in Florida as either a felony or misdemeanor. However, this is dependent on a couple of factors like a prior criminal record. With the possible consequences, it’s vital to work with an attorney who will work to protect your rights.

Working With a Criminal Lawyer to Understand Penalties for Burglary Offenses

The law considers burglary and related offenses to be serious crimes. The penalties for this crime can include hefty fines, probation, and lengthy prison terms.

A first-degree felony happens when the accused commits battery or assault while armed with the intent to commit a crime. If convicted, you could end up being charged with life in prison. You could be charged with a second-degree felony if you weren’t armed and there was no battery or assault. This crime is punishable by up to 15 years in prison.

There are several types of defenses that a criminal attorney can use to get your charges reduced or have the case dismissed. Working with an attorney who has an intimate knowledge of criminal law in Florida ensures that you get the representation you need.