Montgomery County Burglary Lawyer

Experienced Defense Against Burglary Charges in Pennsylvania 

If you or someone you know has been charged with burglary in Pennsylvania, it's essential to seek the advice of an experienced lawyer who understands the intricacies of the legal system in your area. At Testa & Pagnanelli, LLC, our team of skilled Montgomery County burglary lawyers is dedicated to protecting your rights and providing you with a strong defense. 

Call Testa & Pagnanelli, LLC today at (610) 365-4733 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our burglary attorney in Montgomery County!

What is Burglary?

Burglary is a criminal offense that involves unlawfully entering a building or property with the intent to commit a crime inside, typically theft or another felony. In Pennsylvania, burglary is defined under Title 18, Section 3502 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes. It is essential to understand that burglary does not necessarily require theft or the commission of another crime; the mere act of entering a building or property with criminal intent is sufficient to be charged with burglary.

Several key elements must be proven for a burglary conviction:

• Unlawful Entry: The defendant must have entered a building or property without permission or authority.
• Criminal Intent: It must be proven that the defendant entered with the intent to commit a crime inside, such as theft, assault, or any other felony.
• Building or Structure: The unlawful entry must have occurred in a building or structure, such as a home, business, or vehicle.

What are the Penalties for Burglary in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania takes burglary charges seriously, and the penalties can be severe. The severity of the penalties depends on multiple factors, including the circumstances of the offense and the defendant's prior criminal record. Burglary is typically classified into two degrees:

• Burglary of the First Degree: This is Pennsylvania's most serious burglary charge. It applies when the defendant entered a building intending to commit a crime inside, and any of the following conditions apply:
  • The defendant was armed with explosives or a deadly weapon.
  • The defendant caused injury to another person during the commission of the crime.
  • The defendant entered a residence while it was occupied.
• A conviction for first-degree burglary can result in a maximum sentence of up to 20 years.
• Burglary of the Second Degree: This charge applies when the defendant enters a building intending to commit a crime inside, but none of the first-degree conditions apply. A conviction for second-degree burglary can result in a sentence of up to 10 years in prison.

In addition to imprisonment, burglary convictions can lead to fines, probation, restitution to victims, and a permanent criminal record, affecting various aspects of your life, including employment opportunities and housing.

Defenses Against Burglary Charges

Facing burglary charges can be daunting, but there are several defenses that an experienced Montgomery County burglary lawyer can employ to protect your rights:

• Lack of Criminal Intent: If it can be demonstrated that you did not have the intent to commit a crime when entering the premises, this may be a valid defense against burglary charges.
• Lack of Unlawful Entry: If you had permission or a legitimate reason to be on the property or building, this can serve as a defense against burglary allegations.
• Mistaken Identity: In some cases, eyewitness testimony may be unreliable, leading to cases of mistaken identity. Proving that you were not the person responsible for the crime is a strong defense.
• Illegal Search and Seizure: If evidence against you was obtained through an illegal search and seizure, it may be inadmissible in court, leading to the dismissal of charges.
• Alibi: This can be a powerful defense if you provide evidence that you were elsewhere during the alleged burglary.

How Can a Montgomery County Burglary Lawyer Help?

Burglary charges can drastically affect your life, casting a long shadow over your future possibilities. This is where the expertise of a Montgomery County burglary lawyer becomes invaluable. With an in-depth understanding of the law and a steadfast commitment to justice, these attorneys diligently work to mitigate the consequences of burglary charges. They carefully analyze your case, identify the best legal strategies, and represent your interests with vigor and determination, aiming to secure the most favorable outcome possible.

The services provided by our Montgomery County burglary attorneys encompass a wide range of legal support and representation, including:

• Case Evaluation: Conducting a comprehensive review of the charges and evidence against you to formulate a robust defense strategy.
• Legal Guidance: Offering knowledgeable advice on the legal process, your rights, and the potential outcomes of your case.
• Evidence Examination: Scrutinizing the prosecution's evidence for weaknesses, inaccuracies, or procedural errors that could benefit your defense.
• Negotiations with Prosecutors: Engaging in negotiations to potentially reduce charges or secure a plea deal with more lenient sentencing.
• Defense Strategy Development: Crafting and implementing a defense strategy tailored to your specific case, whether it's proving lack of criminal intent, demonstrating lack of unlawful entry, asserting your alibi, or highlighting errors in law enforcement procedures.
• Court Representation: Representing you in all court proceedings, including pre-trial hearings, trials, and, if necessary, appeals, ensuring your defense is presented effectively and persuasively.
• Post-Conviction Support: Offering guidance on the appeals process, seeking expungement, or navigating probation requirements to ensure you can move forward with your life.

By enlisting the services of a skilled burglary attorney, you afford yourself a fighting chance against the charges, aiming to preserve your freedom and protect your future.

Contact Our Montgomery County Burglary Attorney Today

When facing burglary charges in Pennsylvania, it's crucial to have the support and guidance of a dedicated legal team with a strong understanding of the local legal landscape. At Testa & Pagnanelli, LLC, our Montgomery County burglary lawyers are committed to providing you with a strong defense, protecting your rights, and striving for the best possible outcome in your case.

Contact Testa & Pagnanelli, LLC today to schedule a consultation with our burglary lawyer in Montgomery County!