Dedicated Charlotte Criminal Defense Lawyers Aggressively Representing the Interests of Clients Charged With Felony Theft Crimes
Whether it takes place at a home, office building, or any other establishment, burglary is a felony offense. Both robbery and burglary are felony theft offenses, but the main difference is that an individual can be charged with burglary even if no actual theft took place. In fact, you can be charged with burglary just by unlawfully entering another individual's property without permission with intent to steal or commit another felony. If you have been charged with burglary, it is essential to be represented by an experienced Charlotte burglary defense lawyer to ensure your interests are protected.
At the Olsinski Law Firm, PLLC, we’ve assembled an experienced team of burglary lawyers who understand how to defend against these serious crimes. We have been representing clients charged with felony crimes for decades and know what it takes to ensure that your recent arrest has as little impact on your future as possible.
Types of Burglary in North Carolina
All burglaries involve an unlawful entry into a building owned by another person with the intent to commit a felony or larceny while inside. While traditionally, burglary involves breaking and entering with the intent to commit a larceny; North Carolina law considers the crime a burglary if the defendant had the intent to commit any felony, including assaults, sex crimes, or drug offenses. However, burglary crimes in North Carolina are divided up into two separate degrees.
First-degree burglary applies when there is someone sleeping or residing in the building at the time of the offense. First-degree burglary is a Class D felony and carries mandatory prison time. Regardless, a conviction for second-degree burglary carries up to 204 months in prison.
Second-degree burglary involves unlawful entry into a non-dwelling house or a dwelling when there is no one there sleeping or residing in the building at the time of the offense. Second-degree burglary is a Class G felony. Depending on the number of prior convictions on your record, a conviction for second-degree burglary carries up to 47 months in prison. A second-degree burglary conviction does not, however, carry mandatory jail time.
The most common penalties are prison sentences, restitution, probation, and, as a collateral consequence of any felony conviction, the revocation of your right to own a gun. Thus, it is essential to work with an experienced Charlotte criminal defense attorney as soon as you learn you’re being investigated for a burglary crime.
What to Do After Being Arrested for Burglary in North Carolina
Like any other offense, it is important that you do not talk to the police and contact a Charlotte burglary attorney as quickly as possible. Many times, the government will use your statements against you in cases like this, so it may save you the possibility of many years in prison by not being cooperative. We always recommend calling an attorney as quickly as possible after you or a family member has been charged or brought in for questioning.
Get Started on Your Defense Today by Speaking With an Experienced NC Burglary Lawyer
The Olsinski Law Firm, PLLC, represents clients in all types of criminal defense cases and can provide you with an aggressive defense against theft crimes such as burglary. Our firm is extremely dedicated to ensuring our clients are aware of their rights, the law and what can be expected in their case. We work aggressively to protect our clients’ rights and fight for a positive case outcome. Our firm investigates all the evidence thoroughly and researches every aspect of your case to find the best possible burglary defense in your case. If you have been arrested for burglary, contact a Charlotte criminal defense attorney or Concord criminal defense lawyer at one of our offices. To learn more, and to schedule a free consultation today, call 704-405-2850, or connect with us through our secure online contact form.
