If the state has accused you of burglary, you could be facing serious legal consequences that may affect your freedom, finances, and future employment. Being charged with burglary can also damage your personal relationships, leading to feelings of isolation and shame. However, you do not have to handle the legal process alone. Contact a trusted theft attorney from Keys Criminal Defense, PLLC for help understanding your options.
A Key West burglary lawyer could offer realistic, clear, and insightful legal guidance. Our team prioritizes listening to the details of your situation, explaining the charges against you, and developing a personalized defense strategy to protect your rights.
Florida law classifies burglary as a first, second, or third-degree felony, with each charge resulting in different sentences, including fines and prison time.
Third-degree felony charges apply when an individual commits an act meeting the most basic definition of burglary: unlawfully entering or remaining in an unoccupied structure or conveyance while committing an additional crime. These charges are typically seen in cases involving after-hours break-ins at businesses or unlawful entry into unoccupied structures and vehicles, including boats. Although this is the least serious type of burglary charge in Key West, a felony conviction could drastically affect your future, making it essential to seek the assistance of an experienced lawyer.
If the burglary involves a break-in at an occupied structure, dwelling, or conveyance, prosecutors could opt to charge the defendant with a second-degree felony. The state will also automatically charge defendants with a second-degree felony if they burglarize a home, even if the residents were not present. The same charge applies if a person breaks into a business or a vehicle while another person is inside.
Finally, defendants who use a weapon or commit assault or battery during a burglary can be charged with a first-degree felony. This charge also automatically applies if the burglary causes property damage over $1,000 or if a person commits a burglary while carrying a firearm or deadly weapon, even if they do not use it. State prosecutors tend to pursue these types of cases aggressively, as they involve violent crime and danger to the general public. Judges may issue prison sentences of up to 30 years for first-degree felonies.
The consequences following a conviction depend greatly on what degree of charges the prosecutor brings. For example, a third-degree felony conviction could result in up to five years in prison with a $5,000 fine, while a first-degree offense could lead to life behind bars. A skilled Key West burglary attorney could identify mitigating circumstances and challenge elements of the prosecution’s case. In some situations, your attorney may be able to argue for reduced charges or less harsh penalties.
If you are facing burglary charges, don’t go to court alone. Contact a seasoned Key West burglary lawyer at Keys Criminal Defense, PLLC as soon as possible. Our team could guide you through the legal process and help you create a strategic plan for moving forward. We are ready to listen to your story, challenge the prosecution’s case, and identify possible defenses to protect your freedom. Contact us today to schedule a private consultation.
