Towson Burglary Defense Attorney

Trusted Legal Representation for Burglary Cases in Towson

Burglary is a crime that often evokes images of breaking into homes or other locations and committing nighttime thefts. However, this offense holds a broader legal definition, and it encompasses a range of activities. Understanding the specific activities that could lead to burglary charges in Maryland is important for anyone who has been charged with this offense. An experienced criminal defense attorney can provide guidance to those who have been charged with burglary and help them understand their legal options. At Baltimore Legal Services, we know how to defend against accusations of burglary or other related violent crimes or property crimes. We work with our clients to build effective defense strategies, with the goal of avoiding convictions or minimizing the potential penalties that a person may face.

Burglary Charges in Maryland

Maryland law categorizes burglary into several distinct degrees, each reflecting the severity of the offense and the circumstances under which it was committed. Specific burglary charges may fall into one of the following categories:

• First-degree burglary: This offense involves breaking and entering a dwelling with the intent of committing theft or a violent crime such as assault. A typical scenario might include forcibly entering a home at night with the intent to steal valuable items or harm the occupants. The law does not discriminate based on the time of day; a first-degree burglary charge can apply regardless of whether the act occurs under the cover of darkness or in broad daylight. First-degree burglary is a felony. An offense involving the intent to commit theft may result in a maximum prison sentence of 20 years, and if a person intended to commit violence against a home's occupants, they could potentially be sentenced to up to 25 years.
• Second-degree burglary: This form of burglary may be committed in buildings other than homes or residences, such as stores or warehouses. It may involve breaking into a building with the intent to commit theft, violence, or arson. For example, breaking into a retail store with the intent to steal merchandise would likely result in second-degree burglary charges. Second-degree burglary is a felony, and in most cases, a conviction carries a maximum prison sentence of 15 years. However, if a person is accused of committing second-degree burglary with the intent to steal a firearm, they may face a sentence of up to 20 years, as well as a maximum fine of $10,000.
• Third-degree burglary: This offense involves breaking and entering into a dwelling with the intent to commit a crime other than theft or violence. An example might be entering someone's home without permission in order to vandalize the interior. This offense is a felony, and a person who is convicted can face up to 10 years of incarceration.
• Fourth-degree burglary: The least severe form of burglary covers other scenarios in which a person may be accused of breaking and entering into a building. Breaking into a home or storehouse, remaining on someone else's property with the intent of committing theft, or possessing burglar's tools with the intent of committing burglary may lead to criminal charges. Fourth-degree burglary is a misdemeanor, and a conviction can lead to a maximum prison sentence of three years.

Legal Defenses Against Burglary Charges

There are a variety of strategies that an attorney may use to defend against burglary accusations, including:

• Challenging the evidence: A thorough examination of the evidence against a person is pivotal. Our attorneys might question the methods used to identify a person who has been accused of burglary or other alleged facts of a case.
• Asserting lack of intent: To convict a person of burglary, the prosecution must prove that they broke into a building with the intent to commit a crime. Demonstrating that the accused had no intention to commit theft or engage in violence or other illegal activities may lead to a dismissal or reduction of charges.
• Mistake of fact: This defense may apply if the accused believed they had the right to enter the property, illustrating a lack of criminal intent.
• Alibi: It may be possible to provide evidence that the accused was elsewhere at the time of the alleged burglary and could not have committed the offense in question.

Contact Our Towson Burglary Attorney

At Baltimore Legal Services, we understand the laws that affect burglary charges in Maryland, and we can create defense strategies for those who are accused of these offenses. We will work to present a compelling, evidence-backed defense and resolve a case successfully. Reach out to our firm at 858-523-8423 to set up a complimentary consultation and get the legal representation you need as you defend against charges related to burglary or other offenses.