Defining Burglary
Raleigh Criminal Defense Attorney for Burglary Charges
Burglary, a crime commonly referred to as "breaking and entering," involves unlawfully entering another's property with the intent to commit theft or another crime. In North Carolina, burglary may be charged in either the first or second degree, with varying penalties enforced depending on the nature of the offense.
Have you been arrested on suspicion of burglary? Have you been contacted by law enforcement in Raleigh in accordance with a criminal investigation? Now is the time to act and consult a criminal lawyer who can work to protect your rights and advise you of your options in this important matter. You may be at risk of facing serious penalties if you are convicted, and a lawyer experienced in handling burglary cases in the Raleigh area can work to protect you.
Penalties for Burglary in Raleigh, NC
Burglary is always classified as a felony offense. For a defendant convicted of this crime in the Raleigh area, he or she may be in danger of facing the following penalties:
- First degree burglary (entering an occupied dwelling, where the occupants are present) - Class D felony, punishable by
- Second degree burglary (entering a dwelling if the occupants are not present, or entering an unoccupied structure) - Class G felony, punishable by
Enhanced penalties may be enforced if the defendant was in possession of or used a deadly weapon or explosive, or caused serious injury to a person in the commission of the offense. Additional penalties may also apply if the defendant has prior burglary convictions on his or her record.
Make sure you have the legal counsel you need to challenge your burglary charges and keep your criminal record clean. Find out more about how our law firm can provide you with the dedicated criminal defense counsel and one-on-one service you need through every step of your burglary case. To get started in receiving the help you need, contact a Raleigh criminal defense attorney at Hopper Law Firm PLLC today.