Fort Lauderdale Burglary Defense Lawyer
Entering a business, dwelling or structure with the intent to steal property or to commit a felony constitutes the crime of burglary. Under Florida law burglary is typically charged as a felony offense but can also, under certain circumstances, be charged as a misdemeanor. If you have been arrested and charged with burglary, it is extremely important that you immediately contact a Fort Lauderdale criminal defense attorney. It is important to act quickly to give your lawyer the opportunity to review the evidence against you immediately in order to begin your defense.
About Burglary Charges & Penalties
There are two types of burglary: 1st Degree and 2nd Degree. First degree burglary, also known as residential burglary, is when one enters into an inhabited home, garage, trailer, boat, railroad car, warehouse, aircraft or any other place of residence (dwelling) with the intent to commit theft or a felony. Under criminal law the actual crime does not need to have taken place. The only things that must be proven are that there was intent to commit the crime and that the defendant unlawfully entered the building. Second degree burglary is any other burglary that takes place that involves a vehicle, business or unoccupied dwelling.
If you have been arrested for burglary or any type of theft crime, contact a skilled Ft. Lauderdale burglary defense lawyer at the Law Office of Marshall Geisser today. With the help and guidance of an experienced attorney and legal team by your side, you will have a real opportunity of avoiding a conviction and the serious penalties that this may bring.
The following penalties can be ordered by a judge if you are convicted of burglary, with no prior convictions:
1st Degree Burglary:
- 2-6 year minimum prison term
- Up to $10,000 fine
- Community service
- Probation
- Parole
2nd Degree Burglary:
- 1-3 year jail or prison term
- Up to $10,000 fine
- Community service
- Probation
- Parole
Burglary Defense Attorney in Fort Lauderdale
If you are suspected of or have been arrested for any type of burglary offense or any other crime in the Fort Lauderdale area, a lawyer at our firm can help you. We have many years of experience in successful defense in the legal system. We are educated with all current laws and procedures and have developed many relationships over the years with criminal prosecutors. As legal professionals, we understand how to bring forward a compelling defense. We have seen too many individuals wrongly accused due to mistaken identity or by being in the wrong place at the wrong time; we are here to protect your rights in order to avoid a tragic outcome.
Do not let the legal system swallow you whole -- contact us today to schedule a free consultation of your burglary case. We are committed to defending your constitutional rights and maintaining your freedom.
Contact a Fort Lauderdale burglary defense attorney at our law offices today to see how we can help you.