I’ve been charged with burglary, what are the criminal penalties?

By definition, burglary is a serious crime – intentionally entering a building without permission, with the intent to commit a felony inside.  Burglary is thus, itself, a felony offense.  A felony offense is generally defined as one for which the law imposes a year or more of imprisonment, but the actual crime penalties for the burglary you are charged with may vary widely, depending on the state laws that apply.  The crime of burglary is classified more seriously depending on the seriousness of the original intended felony or the seriousness of the actual harm that resulted, but if you are charged with even the least serious burglary and convicted, most state laws will require you to serve a significant amount of jail time, probation or parole, and pay fines and court costs.  In addition, you will likely be ordered to make restitution (reimburse the victim) for the value of any property stolen, the cost of repairing property damage, or the cost of medical expenses, if your victim was injured during the crime.  An experienced criminal defense attorney in the state where the crime occurred can advise you on the consequences of conviction, and depending on the circumstances, may be able to argue for probation instead of jail time and obtain payment arrangements for money you are required to pay.

Talk to a Criminal Defense Lawyer for advice on how to handle your case, and find out what defense options you have to avoid serious consequences.