A burglary describes an incident where a person enters a building with the intent to commit a crime while inside. It does not matter if this crime actually occurs; the law states that merely entering the building is enough to justify a burglary conviction. Because the law treats all examples of burglary as felonies, it is critical that you seek legal representation if you are accused of this offense.

Talking with an East Windsor burglary lawyer is the first step in the right direction. Ruane Attorneys are prepared to explain the state’s burglary laws, evaluate the evidence in your case, and build a defense to protect your future.

Burglary Definition Under State Law

The concept of burglary is more complex than it appears. Put simply, a person who enters a building with the intent to commit a crime while inside has committed burglary. The action of entering the building with this intent comprises a criminal activity. What happens once a person is inside may still be important to the case, but it is not an essential part of a burglary conviction.

As a result, many burglary cases revolve around the idea of intent. Prosecutors need to prove that a person entered a building with the intent of committing a crime, such as theft, arson, assault, or destruction of property. To prove intent, prosecutors may introduce evidence like:

• Text messages or emails between accomplices
• The defendant’s supposed possession of a tool to enter the building
• The defendant’s supposed possession of a weapon

An East Windsor burglary attorney could help fight back against allegations that a defendant intended to commit a crime.

Types of Burglary Charges in East Windsor

Not all burglary charges are the same. The severity of a charge depends on the nature of the building and what a person does once they are inside.

Third-Degree Burglary

Many burglary cases allege burglary in the third degree. Under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-103, this describes the simple entry into a building with the intent to commit a crime. This is a class D felony where convictions may bring between one and five years in prison.

Burglary in the Second Degree

When the building in question is a dwelling, the charge may be burglary in the second degree. According to Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-102, this is a class C felony with potential prison terms of between one and ten years.

First-Degree and Armed Burglary

Burglaries that result in harm to another person or that occur at night are first-degree charges. These may also include burglaries where a defendant was carrying a dangerous weapon. Under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 53a-101, these cases are class B felonies with a mandatory five-year prison term. A lawyer at our firm could provide more information about the versions of burglary under state law.

Contact an East Windsor Burglary Attorney Now

Burglary allegations are felony charges with the potential to change your life permanently. A conviction will see a court imposing a prison sentence and will create a criminal record. It is crucially important that you take the steps needed to protect yourself.

Speaking with an East Windsor burglary lawyer today could help you preserve your rights and future prospects. At Ruane Attorneys, we are ready to explain how the state defines burglary and evaluate the evidence prosecutors intend to bring to court. With this information, we can start building a defense that aims to defeat their case and protect your freedom. Reach out to us now to get started.