People have a need to feel safe, whether that safety protects their home, office, or their own bodies. Public policy demands that this safety issue remains a high priority, as the ability to function in society depends on people’s ability to assume that they’ll be able to manage their routines without any undue risk or danger. Robbery and burglary are considered violent crimes, even in cases where an empty home is entered. These are also crimes in which the victim can appear in court. As a result, judges and prosecutors tend to be harsh on the accused.
Because theft is a crime of moral turpitude it is necessary to do everything possible to avoid a conviction. When one of our skilled lawyers from Bowman & Associates represent someone that is accused of a theft we investigate all lawful and ethical means to have the case dismissed or rejected. If a theft case is dismissed or rejected we then strongly advise our clients to get the case expunged.
There are many crimes which may be associated with a criminal burglary offense, such as:
- Arson
- Any Form of Fraud
- Assault or Battery
- Criminal Mischief or Trespass
- Destruction of Property or Vandalism
- Extortion
- Homicide
- Sexual Assault or Rape
- Theft or Robbery
- or any other criminal offense
Theft crimes in California can be charged as either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on how much was stolen and whether or not the defendant has a criminal history. Penalties from a theft conviction vary depending upon the severity of the theft, but can include jail time, fines, and probation, and a criminal record. The punishment for a Sacramento burglary charge will depend on multiple components. Burglaries are typically classified by degree: a first degree burglary is the most common and is often referred to as “residential burglary.” If convicted, you may face 2, 4, or 6 years in state prison and will get a strike on your criminal record. A second degree burglary, usually for a lesser burglary charge such as shoplifting, has a lesser sentence and does not count as a strike on your record.
Successful burglary defense in Northern California demands adherence to extremely strict regulations, including rules for filing notices, meeting deadlines, following technical and procedural rules, requesting information and more. Because breaking & entering defense lawyers work within these restrictions every day, they’re familiar with all the demands of a criminal case.
We have the experience to help our clients understand the complex legal issues involved in a theft case. From the start, we engage in fierce representation by investigating and developing issues such as alibi and witness credibility. We are always successful in gathering evidence that casts a more favorable light on your case. Seeking the counsel of an experienced Carmichael criminal defense attorney may be your best opportunity at avoiding a burglary conviction and the penalties associated with burglary conviction in the State of California. The criminal defense lawyers at Bowman & Associates, APC, have the expertise and skills needed to effectively combat any burglary charge.
If you are under investigation for, or have been arrested and charged with a burglary offense, contact the Sacramento criminal lawyers at Bowman & Associates. You can call our office at (916) 923-2800 for a free consultation.
