Killeen Burglary Lawyer
Defending Clients Facing Burglary Charges in Texas
At the Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard, we are committed to protecting the rights and interests of our clients in Texas. If you or a loved one is facing burglary charges, seeking immediate legal representation is essential. As experienced Killeen burglary lawyers, we will work to build a strong defense on your behalf.
Call the Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard today at (254) 220-4225 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our burglary attorney in Killeen!
What is Burglary?
Burglary is a severe criminal offense in Texas, and it's crucial to understand what it entails. Under Texas law, burglary is defined as the unlawful entry into a building or habitation with the intent to commit theft, assault, or a felony. It's important to note that burglary charges can apply whether or not the intended crime is carried out. The mere act of entering a property with unlawful intent is sufficient to warrant a burglary charge.
Burglary can be classified into two main categories:
- Burglary of a Building: This involves the unlawful entry into any type of building, such as a home, business, or storage unit.
- Burglary of a Habitation: This is considered a more severe offense and involves the unlawful entry into a residence, such as a house or apartment. Burglary of a habitation is a felony, and the penalties are more severe.
It's important to understand that burglary is a crime of intent. To be charged with burglary, it must be proven that you intended to commit a crime once inside the building or habitation. The prosecution will need to establish your criminal intent beyond a reasonable doubt.
Penalties for Burglary Convictions in Texas
Burglary charges in Texas can result in severe penalties that can have a lasting impact on your life. The potential consequences of a burglary conviction may include:
- Criminal Record: A burglary conviction will result in a permanent criminal record, affecting future employment prospects, housing opportunities, and more.
- Fines: Depending on the severity of the burglary charge, you may face fines ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
- Imprisonment: The length of imprisonment will vary based on the circumstances of the burglary. Burglary of a building is typically charged as a state jail felony, while burglary of a habitation is considered a second-degree felony, which carries a higher prison sentence.
- Restitution: If the victim suffered financial losses due to the burglary, you may be required to pay restitution.
- Probation: In some cases, you may be sentenced to probation with strict conditions and requirements.
- Loss of Civil Rights: A burglary conviction can lead to a loss of certain civil rights, such as the right to vote and possess firearms.
It's important to note that the penalties for burglary can be enhanced if certain aggravating factors are present, such as using a deadly weapon during the commission of the crime. Therefore, having an experienced Killeen burglary lawyer by your side is crucial to help minimize these potential consequences.
Grateful my case is being handled by the best lawyers in Killeen.Danishka M.
Defenses Against Burglary Charges
At the Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard, we deeply understand the Texas legal system and a track record of defending clients against burglary charges. Various defenses can be employed to challenge these charges, depending on the specifics of your case. Some common defenses include:
- Lack of Intent: If it can be demonstrated that you did not intend to commit a crime when entering the building or habitation, the charges may be reduced or dismissed.
- Consent: If you had permission or consent to enter the property, you may not be guilty of burglary.
- Mistaken Identity: This can be a strong defense if the prosecution cannot prove your involvement in the burglary.
- Insufficient Evidence: In some cases, the evidence may be insufficient to secure a conviction, and a skilled attorney can challenge the evidence against you.
- Fourth Amendment Violations: If your Fourth Amendment rights against unreasonable searches and seizures were violated during your arrest or the search of the property, evidence obtained may be deemed inadmissible in court.
Firm Overview
Contact Our Killeen Burglary Attorney Today
Facing burglary charges in Killeen, Texas, is a daunting experience. The potential consequences are severe, and having a knowledgeable and experienced Killeen burglary lawyer by your side will protect your rights and build a strong defense on your behalf.
At the Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard, we understand the intricacies of Texas burglary laws and have a track record of defending our clients against these charges. We will work tirelessly to investigate the details of your case, identify any weaknesses in the prosecution's arguments, and craft a robust defense strategy to achieve the best possible outcome.
Contact the Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard today to schedule a consultation with our burglary lawyer in Killeen!
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