Modesto Burglary Charges
Choose an Experienced Defense Attorney for Your Case
Under the California penal code 459, burglary is defined as “entering
a room, structure or locked vehicle with the intent to commit a felony
once inside.” Burglary charges can result in serious penalties,
which is why it’s important to retain the counsel of a knowledgeable
criminal defense lawyer in Modesto.
Types of Charges for Burglary
First degree burglary – also referred to as residential burglary
– involves the entrance of a structure or building where people
are living (house, apartment, or hotel room). Regardless of whether or
not there was a forced entry, prosecutors can charge you with a “breaking
and entering” offense. Second degree burglary, or commercial burglary,
involves any store or business and can be filed as a misdemeanor or felony.
Potential Penalties for Burglary
First degree burglary is always a felony, but whether second degree burglary
is filed as a misdemeanor or felony depends on the circumstances in which
the offense took place and your past criminal record.
Penalties for first degree burglary can include:
- Up to six years in state prison
- Up to $10,000 in fines
- Counts as a strike under California’s three strikes law
Penalties for second degree burglary charged as a misdemeanor can include:
- Up to one year in county jail
- Up to $1,000 in fines
Penalties for second degree burglary charged as a felony can include:
- Up to three years in state prison
- Up to $10,000 in fines
Our Modesto Firm Can Help
Retaining a strong and aggressive Modesto criminal lawyer is the first
step in getting the help you need. Mark Girdner is familiar with California
law and can offer the assistance necessary when you or a loved one is
facing charges. The Law Offices of Mark Girdner is experienced in defending
clients against all types of
theft crimes and can proved the dedicated and effective legal advocacy needed to protect
your rights.
We’re available 24/7, so call us today to schedule your
free consultation!