Burglary is defined as entering a building illegally to commit a crime, usually theft crimes. In accordance with Florida Statute 810.02, being convicted of burglary can result in severe penalties such as fines, probation, and even a prison sentence. Both your freedom and your future could be at risk, and navigating the complexity of Florida’s legal system is a stressful process.
If you’re facing burglary charges, then contact a Clearwater criminal defense lawyer at The Law Place today so that we can guide you on your legal journey and begin the process of developing the best possible defense. We offer a free consultation so you can ask any questions that you might have before committed to representation. We will fight against the prosecution and do everything we can to have your charge dropped or reduced.
If your freedom and future are at risk, then you need to seek the advice of a team of skilled Clearwater criminal defense lawyers from a reputable law firm. Our attorneys have over 75 years of combined criminal law experience in Florida. We will review your case as a team to ensure an aggressive and powerful defense strategy.
Contact us today and arrange a free consultation with a criminal defense attorney in Clearwater, FL. Call (941) 444-4444.
What Are the Different Kinds of Burglary in Clearwater, FL.?
Clearwater, FL., operates under federal and Florida state laws. There are three different types of burglary; they are:
- Burglary of a dwelling – A dwelling is a building or vehicle used as a home or residence. Burglary of a dwelling occurs when someone enters a residence with the intention to commit a crime. A common example is if someone enters someone’s dwelling to steal their property. This is classified as a second-degree felony, and penalties include up to 15 years in prison, up to 15 years of probation, and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Burglary of a structure – A structure is a building that is not intended to be used as a home, i.e., a gas station or convenience store. The burglary of a structure would involve entering it to commit a crime, usually theft crimes. This is a third-degree felony and is punishable by up to 5 years in prison, 5 years of probation, and a fine of up to $5000.
- Burglary of a conveyance – A conveyance is intended to be used as transport, such as a car, truck, or boat. The burglary of conveyance means someone has entered or damaged a vehicle with the intent of committing a crime, such as theft. A common example is someone entering a truck to steal the items inside to sell. This is considered a third-degree felony, which could result in 5 years in prison, 5 years of probation, and a $5000 fine.
Any burglary in Clearwater could result in long prison sentences. This is a scary prospect, but you do not need to face the legal system alone. Speak to a criminal defense attorney at The Law Place today and discuss your options for representation.
For a free legal consultation with a burglary lawyer serving Clearwater, call 941-444-4444
What Are the Possible Charges You May Be Facing in Clearwater, FL.?
If you commit a burglary in Clearwater, you will face criminal charges. You could face a first, second, or third-degree felony, as well as fines of up to $10,000 and up to 30 years in prison. Even lesser charges carry a $5,000 fine and up to 5 years in prison.
Although the type of burglary could dictate what type of charge you will be facing in Clearwater, FL., other factors can also elevate your charge. For example, if an assault took place or you were in possession of a weapon, you will also face a first-degree felony.
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How This Can Affect You
Facing a conviction for any burglary is a scary prospect. If convicted, you will have a criminal record even after your possible jail sentence, which will affect what kind of work you can do and even where you can live. This could have a huge impact on the rest of your life and the lives of your family.
A criminal defense attorney from The Law Place will do everything they can to have your charges reduced or dropped entirely. They will look for any flaws in the prosecution and will look to take advantage of any gaps in their evidence against you.
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What Is the Difference Between Burglary and a Robbery?
A burglary happens when someone enters a building, house, or car without the owner’s permission, intending to commit a crime, regardless of whether the building or vehicle was occupied. On the other hand, a robbery occurs when someone forcibly takes property from an individual. Breaking into a building when no one is there and stealing their property is classified as burglary rather than a robbery.
Can I Be Charged With Both Robbery and Burglary?
When someone commits a burglary and at the same time commits a robbery, i.e., they come into premises and steal from a person. Then they will be facing a charge of aggravated burglary or home invasion robbery. Therefore, you cannot be charged with both offenses.
Are Robbery and Theft the Same Offense?
Theft and robbery are also different offenses. Theft is when someone takes another person’s property, either permanently or temporarily, without their permission. At the same time, robbery is the forceful taking of someone’s property. A theft usually occurs when someone is not at their property or without them knowing about it. In contrast, in a robbery, the perpetrator takes from someone directly and with force.
Is Breaking Into Someone’s House Considered Burglary?
If you enter someone’s home without their consent, then that is considered burglary. However, there are some exceptions, such as an emergency.
It is also possible to be charged with burglary if you had permission to enter a home, but that permission was revoked, and you stayed anyway. If you remain in the home and commit an offense, or have the intention of committing an offense, then you could be charged with burglary.
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What Is the Evidence That the Prosecution Will Use to Prove That I Committed Burglary?
The evidence that could be brought against you in a burglary case varies widely. If you were caught inside the building, home, or vehicle, police reports and witnesses’ statements would be vital. Whereas, if you were not found at the scene, then video surveillance and fingerprints might be more important. However, there may still be witnesses, such as a neighbor.
Another possibility is if you stole something and tried to sell it on, then there may be evidence, such as pawn shop records.
What Can The Law Place Do for Me in Clearwater, FL.?
When facing criminal charges, many people feel like their life is out of control, with the fear of a prison sentence, it is a very stressful time. When you hire a criminal defense attorney from The Law Place, they will become your advocate. They will be there to offer support and guide you through the process. While at the same time, being your best possible chance at having your charges reduced or dismissed.
Our criminal defense lawyers will assess your case as a team and look for any flaws in the prosecution. For example, were there any procedural irregularities? Are there any gaps in the evidence against you? Was there a warrant, or did you agree to the search for stolen goods? Were your fingerprints present at the scene of the crime? If there any weaknesses in the prosecution, then we will find them and take advantage.
Call The Law Place Today
If you are being accused of criminal charges such as burglary, then you should speak to a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. The sooner, the better, as our law firm will get to work right away to build the best possible criminal defense in Clearwater, FL.
Our criminal defense lawyers have over 75 years of combined experience. We will work as a team to develop an aggressive defense. So, you’ll essentially have a team of criminal defense lawyers for the price of one!
Our phone lines in Clearwater are always open so that you can seek advice when you really need it. Contact us today at (941) 444-4444.
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