Possible Penalties for a Burglary Conviction
If you or someone you love has been arrested in Florida and is facing burglary charges, it is important to understand the nature of charges and that the degrees of severity will impact possible penalties. These charges are not to be taken lightly, a burglary conviction can lead to severe consequences, including jail time and a criminal record that interferes with other life goals.
You do not have to try and quickly become an expert in Florida criminal law after an arrest. Instead rely on the skills and expertise of an established Clearwater criminal defense lawyer to assist you when you need legal guidance.
Levels of Severity When It Comes to Unlawful Entry
In Florida, a burglary charge will follow if a person unlawfully enters a structure with the intent to commit a crime once they were inside. The key elements to proving a person is guilty of burglary are unauthorized entry, intent to commit a crime, and the presence of some sort of structure. A home, apartment, business, or vehicle can all be considered structures when it comes to burglary charges.
Then, the crime committed inside the structure will be reviewed as offenses can range from theft and assault to more serious offenses such as sexual assault or arson. Burglary charges in Florida are classified into different degrees based on the circumstances and severity of the offense. The state recognizes three degrees of burglary: third degree, second degree, and first degree. Possession of weapons, damage to property, and the presence of occupants during the crime are all escalating factors.
Criminal Consequences and Securing the Legal Support You Need
If you are convicted of burglary in Florida, the penalties will be directly related to the severity of the offense.
- Third-degree burglary. The least serious of the three degrees of burglary offenses, third-degree burglary is a felony and carries a potential punishment of up to 5 years in prison and fines up to $5,000.
- Second-degree burglary. Also a felony, a second degree burglary conviction can result in up to 15 years of incarceration and fines up to $10,000.
- First-degree burglary. The most severe offense is a felony of the first degree, which can lead to a maximum of 30 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
Fighting burglary charges without legal representation is not recommended as the legal process can be complicated. A Clearwater criminal defense lawyer who has assisted past clients in situations similar to your own can guide you through the process. Seasoned attorneys possess in-depth knowledge of Florida’s criminal laws, courtroom procedures, and access to resources like expert witnesses and investigators.
What questions do you have about burglary charges in the state of Florida? Because a burglary conviction can carry significant penalties, it is crucial to understand the charges you are facing and seek legal representation immediately. With the guidance of the attorneys at the King Law Group, you can work towards the most optimal outcome given the detail of your situation. Schedule your free consultation.
