Burglary and Home Invasions

Home Invasions

A home invasion is a type of burglary, and often punished more severely than other burglaries.

Burglary: Charges, Penalties, and Sentencing

Burglary is a serious crime and one that is typically charged as a felony offense, though some states allow for misdemeanor burglary charges in certain situations

Burglary in the Second Degree

Many states divide burglaries into classes or degrees, based on the seriousness of the crime or the potential for injury or damage.

Criminal Trespassing Laws and Penalties

Learn about laws and the various penalties associated with trespassing.

Can You Trespass on Your Own Property?

The crime of trespassing is committed by going onto property, usually property that belongs to someone else, without permission. But can people ever be charged and convicted of a crime for going onto their own property without permission?

What Does "Breaking and Entering" Mean?

States define breaking and entering differently. In some states, breaking and entering is an element of burglary, but other states make it a separate crime.

What Makes an Item a "Burglar's Tool?"

Almost any item that could be used to force entry into a building or pick a lock can be a burglar’s tool if a person possesses the item with the intent to use it to commit burglary or some other crime. Many, but not all, states have laws against burglar’s tools (also called burglary tools or burglarious

Can a Person Burglarize or Trespass on an Abandoned Structure?

Houses and other buildings that have been abandoned are often the site of criminal activity. State law varies on whether a person can be charged with burglarizing or trespassing on property that has been abandoned. Burglary and Trespassing Going onto property without permission can result in charges

How Do I Get Rid of a Houseguest Who Won't Leave?

Houseguests who have been asked to leave and overstayed their welcome are technically committing the crime of trespassing. However, getting rid of a trespassing houseguest can be challenging.

Is It a Crime to Enter a Home Under Construction?

Burglaries and thefts of construction sites are common. In many states, a person who burglarizes a house under construction can be convicted of residential burglary and face years in prison.

What Is the Difference Between Burglary and Larceny?

While burglary and larceny offenses both involve property, these two crimes tend to be more different than alike.

How Do Prosecutors Prove Intent in Burglary Cases?

Learn how prosecutors prove intent in burglary cases using direct or circumstantial evidence.

Can I Be Convicted for Both Burglary and the Theft of the Goods Taken?

People can and are charged with and convicted of both burglary and the theft of goods taken during the burglary. Because the two crimes are separate, a person can be convicted of both crimes. Whether a person can be punished for both burglary and theft is a bit more complicated.

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