Baltimore Burglary Lawyer
The crimes of Burglary in the state of Maryland can be charged either as a felony or misdemeanor depending on the underlying facts and circumstances of the case. There are numerous degrees of burglary and various other charges fall under the ambit of “Burglary” according to the Maryland Criminal Code.
With this in mind, it is important those accused consult with a Baltimore burglary lawyer to be aware of which specific charge you are facing and prepare accordingly. A theft attorney in Baltimore can assist both in preparing the individual accused of what to expect, and ensure that a strong defense is put forward.
Elements of Burglary
Burglary is entering a building with the intent to commit a crime such as theft, assault or destruction of property. Even if nothing is taken or damaged, merely entering a home, business or abandoned property without permission is illegal. The actual charge will depend on the type of structure an individual enters, and what occurs once the individual has entered. Burglary can be charged as a felony or misdemeanor, but each of the charges can be serious for differing reasons.
Burglary cases often involve a former boyfriend, girlfriend or employee trying to retrieve personal property. If there is a confrontation, assault or robbery charges can make the situation even worse. If the person unwisely brings a gun or other weapon, the charges may increase.
Degrees of Burglary Charges
When a person breaks into another’s home with the intent to commit theft or cause violence, it constitutes burglary in the first degree, which is a felony offense. The penalty, if convicted for this charge, is up to 25 years incarceration.
A person who breaks into the storehouse of another person with intent to steal, commit an act of violence, or commit arson be can found guilty of burglary in the second degree in Maryland. The penalty for this crime is up to 15 years imprisonment.
Burglary in the third degree is entering another’s home, without a legal right to enter, with intent to commit any crime. A person who is found guilty of this charge can be punished with a prison term that does not exceed 10 years.
Burglary in the fourth degree encompasses four separate crimes, which are classified as misdemeanors, in Maryland. A person who enters another’s home or storehouse without a right to do so is guilty of burglary in the fourth degree, even if there was no intent to commit a crime once inside.
Building a Burglary Defense
Understanding the various subsections of the Criminal Code is imperative to preparing a defense as the potential jail sentences and burdens of proof vary from charge to charge. Our burglary attorneys in Baltimore focus exclusively on Criminal Defense and can explain to you which charge you are facing and how to best prepare a defense.
A burglary charge often stems from a civil dispute between two people who know each other or a simple disagreement. Nevertheless, burglary or robbery are serious felony charges and a skilled and experienced Baltimore burglary attorney can help guide you to a favorable outcome.
Importance of An Baltimore Burglary Attorney
If you have been charged with burglary, it is important to have an attorney who understands the seriousness of the charges and who is familiar with the prosecutors, judges, and the general jurisdiction that you have been charged in. Your attorney’s understanding of those factors can impact the outcome of your case. If you are searching for experienced legal representation, a Baltimore burglary lawyer is here to guide you.