Burglary

Theft Crimes

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Riverside Burglary Lawyer

Experienced Defense for Burglary Charges in California

At Law Offices of Grech, Packer & Hanks, our Riverside burglary attorneys have spent years refining our abilities to handle even the most complex cases, and we are prepared to work tirelessly to defend you or your loved one against burglary allegations. Our attorneys understand California’s burglary laws in-depth, and we are dedicated to providing robust representation to protect your rights and advocate for your best interests.

When representing clients accused of burglary, our legal team draws from Attorney Paul Grech’s experiences as a former Deputy District Attorney to anticipate prosecutors’ strategies. With this insight and our abilities to produce successful resolutions during the trial, we are equipped with the skills and versatility to negate the case of the prosecution and present our clients’ innocence clearly and convincingly.

Facing Burglary Charges? Get Legal Help Now!
Don’t face these charges alone. Call (951) 682-9311 or contact us today for a free consultation.

What is Burglary?

Burglary is a severe criminal offense defined under California law as entering a building, room, or structure with the intent to commit theft or any other felony once inside. The crucial elements that must be established in a burglary case include unlawful entry and the specific intent to commit a crime once inside the premises.

At the Law Offices of Grech, Packer & Hanks, we recognize the complexities surrounding burglary charges and are well-versed in the nuances of California law. Our legal team understands the importance of thoroughly examining the circumstances of each case, challenging evidence, and building a strategic defense tailored to the unique aspects of your situation.

What are the Penalties for Burglary in California?

Depending on the circumstances involved, courts may prosecute defendants for either first-degree or second-degree burglary. As defined by California Penal Code § 458 – 464, these charges are defined as follows:

First-Degree Burglary: Burglary in the first degree involves entering an inhabited dwelling or building intending to commit a theft or felony while inside. A situation viewed harshly by prosecutors, first-degree burglary poses penalties of two, four, or six years imprisonment in a state prison.
Second-Degree Burglary: Any burglary involving any other uninhabited building or property will be prosecuted as second-degree burglary. This charge carries a maximum term of imprisonment of one year.

Types of Burglary Charges in California

Burglary is classified into different types based on where the alleged crime occurred and the intent behind it. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for building a strong defense.

Residential vs. Commercial Burglary

Residential Burglary (First-Degree Burglary): This occurs when someone unlawfully enters an inhabited dwelling, such as a house, apartment, or mobile home, with the intent to commit theft or a felony. It is considered a felony in California and carries severe penalties, including years in state prison.
Commercial Burglary (Second-Degree Burglary): This involves breaking into a business, store, or other non-residential structure with the intent to commit theft or another crime. Depending on the circumstances, commercial burglary may be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor.

Burglary vs. Robbery vs. Trespassing

Burglary: Requires unlawful entry into a building with the intent to commit a crime inside. Physical confrontation with a victim is not necessary.
Robbery: Involves taking someone’s property through force or intimidation, often involving direct confrontation.
Trespassing: Occurs when someone unlawfully enters or remains on another person’s property without permission, but without the intent to commit a crime.

Impact of a Burglary Conviction

A burglary conviction can have serious long-term consequences beyond jail time and fines. It can affect nearly every aspect of your life, making it essential to fight the charges with a strong defense.

Effects on Employment and Housing

Many employers conduct background checks, and a burglary conviction can make it difficult to secure a job, especially in fields requiring trust and responsibility.
Landlords may deny rental applications due to criminal history, limiting housing opportunities.

Impact on Firearm Ownership and Professional Licenses

A felony burglary conviction can result in losing the right to own or possess firearms, as California law prohibits felons from owning guns.
Certain professional licenses (such as those for lawyers, nurses, and real estate agents) may be revoked or denied due to a criminal record.

If you are facing burglary charges, taking immediate legal action is crucial to protecting your future.

Defenses Against Burglary Charges

Mounting a strong defense against burglary requires a thorough understanding of the law and the ability to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Our legal team is well-equipped to explore various defenses tailored to your specific circumstances:

Lack of Intent: Demonstrating that there was no intent to commit a crime upon entering the premises can be a powerful defense strategy.
Lawful Entry: If the entry was lawful, such as having permission to be on the premises, this can serve as a compelling defense against burglary charges.
Mistaken Identity: Establishing that you were wrongly identified as the perpetrator can be crucial in building a strong defense.
Insufficient Evidence: Challenging the prosecution’s evidence and demonstrating its insufficiency can lead to a favorable outcome.
Fourth Amendment Violations: If your constitutional rights were violated during the search and seizure process, it may result in the exclusion of crucial evidence.

The Law Offices of Grech, Packer & Hanks meticulously examine every aspect of your case to identify the most effective defense strategy. Our attorneys are dedicated to leveraging their experience and knowledge to navigate the complexities of burglary charges and safeguard your rights.

Protect your future – Act fast!
A burglary conviction can have lifelong consequences. Call (951) 682-9311 or contact us to start building your defense now!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Burglary Charges

Can I be charged with burglary if I didn’t steal anything?

Yes. In California, burglary charges are based on intent rather than the actual act of stealing. If prosecutors can prove that you entered a building with the intent to commit theft or another felony, you can still be charged with burglary—even if you didn’t take anything.

What if I was allowed inside the building?

Even if you were invited or had permission to enter, you can still face burglary charges if you entered with criminal intent. However, proving that you had lawful entry can be a strong defense in some cases.

Can a burglary charge be reduced or dismissed?

Yes, depending on the circumstances of the case. If there is insufficient evidence, if your rights were violated during the arrest, or if you had no criminal intent, your lawyer may be able to get the charges reduced to trespassing or petty theft—or dismissed entirely.

How does burglary affect my record?

A burglary conviction stays on your criminal record and can negatively impact employment, housing, and other areas of life. In some cases, you may be eligible for expungement after completing your sentence.

What should I do if I am under investigation for burglary?

Do not talk to the police without a lawyer.
Avoid answering questions that could incriminate you.
Contact an experienced burglary defense attorney immediately to protect your rights and build a strong defense.

Contact Our Riverside Burglary Attorney Today

Burglary is an allegation that can forever change the lives of convicted offenders. As such, retaining experienced legal counsel without aversion to fighting aggressively on your behalf should be your main priority. Certified Criminal Law Specialists who remain committed to our clients throughout their cases, our legal team is here to protect your rights and your future.

We’ve secured positive results against even the most serious charges – See Case Results.

Protect your future – Act fast!
A burglary conviction can have lifelong consequences. Call (951) 682-9311 or contact us to start building your defense now!

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