Burglary is a serious felony crime and although the penalties can vary from state to state, all can include prison time.
Burglary is generally defined as entering into a structure or dwelling for the purpose of committing a crime.
It usually involves an additional charge of theft or assault.
There are several different levels of burglary, too, depending on the seriousness of the crime committed after entry was made.
If you are charged with this crime, it's important that you take the following actions in order to have a chance at beating this charge.
Do NOT Answer Any Questions Without Your Lawyer.
First of all, you should not speak to the police or the investigators until you have spoken with your attorney.
Anything you might say could be used against you in court.
However, now is not the time to be discourteous or cause problems.
Be polite and don't give the police any difficulties.
This will help you a great deal later on.
Tell Your Attorney Everything When you speak with your attorney, tell him or her everything you can remember.
Don't leave anything out, no matter how minor it might seem.
Your attorney will be looking at all the evidence the police and the prosecutor have and may have many questions for you about the charges.
Make Your Retainer Payments and Your Court Dates If you are set up on a payment plan, make sure you stick to the payment dates.
Many attorneys will resign form the case for nonpayment, which means your new attorney will have to start from scratch.
You also need to ensure that you make every meeting and hearing in your case.
If you don't, you could forfeit your bond and a new warrant might be issued.
This will only cause you additional problems.
Listen to Your Attorney If you have an experienced attorney, they may be able to get the case dismissed for a variety of reasons, including evidence that was obtained illegally or if you were arrested in violation of your rights.
Your attorney will advise you on the best course of action; however, the decision to take this advice is ultimately yours.
If your attorney has trial experience, he may have a good chance of getting the charges dropped or reduced with the right information.
In Closing It's vital that you speak with an experienced attorney if you are facing a burglary charge.
It carries some hefty jail time and the right attorney may be your saving grace.