Stealing is classified in a number of ways in Arizona. Burglary is one of those classifications and the consequences are very serious if convicted. Due to the severity of these consequences and the fact a conviction places a mark on your criminal record, it can have a hefty impact on the rest of your life.
If you have been charged with burglary, you need a Mesa criminal defense lawyer by your side to help you navigate the legal system while fighting the charges against you.
Assisting With All Burglary Charges
There are three degrees of burglary with Third Degree Burglary being the least severe and First Degree Burglary being the most severe. First Degree is a Class 2 or 3 felony and the prison term can be at least 7 years and up to 21 years. It can be extended if there were 2 or more aggravating factors at play during the commission of the crime, such as it not being the first offense. Aggravating factors can increase the maximum sentence to be up to 35 years.
Second Degree Burglary is classified as a Class 3 felony and the sentence can be up to 25 years in prison, depending on the aggravating factors that may be present. For example, a victim could be injured when attempting burglary and that injury will aggravate the initial burglary charge.
Third Degree Burglary is classified as a Class 4 felony and it involves commercial property burglaries and auto theft. The maximum prison sentence is 15 years and is usually so because another crime was committed during the burglary.
An individual can also be charged with a Class 6 felony if they are in possession of burglary tools. This charge is one that can be coupled with another burglary charge and that will make the penalty harsher if convicted. However, a person does not have to actually commit burglary to be charged with possession of burglary tools. The penalty can be up to 5.75 years in prison, property forfeiture, restitution, fines, fees, and other penalties the judge may deem appropriate.
Strategic And Ethical Mesa Burglary Defense
Your Mesa criminal defense attorney will devise a strategic defense on your behalf. There are a number of defenses that can be used to reach the desired outcome. The goal is to put as much doubt in the mind of the jury as possible so that reasonable doubt is present. A person cannot be convicted if there is reasonable doubt. Some defenses include lack of intent, mistake of fact, justification, mishandling of evidence, constitutional rights violations, and more.
Contact A Mesa Criminal Defense Attorney
If you have been accused of burglary, you are most likely confused and wondering what you need to do next. The first step you can take is obtain the services of an experienced criminal defense attorney who is able to fight for your rights and the best result in your case. To learn more about how Miles A. Schneider & Associates, LTD. can help you, call 602-926-7373 for a free consultation.
