Peoria Burglary Lawyer
Defending Ahainst Burglary Charges in Illinois
At
McCall Law Offices, P.C., our team of experienced attorneys is committed to providing top-notch
legal representation to individuals facing burglary charges in Illinois.
If you or a loved one has been accused of burglary, it's crucial to
understand the seriousness of the situation and the potential consequences.
We are here to help you navigate the legal process and defend your rights
vigorously.
Call McCall Law Offices, P.C. today at {F:P:Site:Phone} or
contact us online to schedule a meeting with our burglary attorney in Peoria!
What is Burglary?
Burglary is a
criminal offense that involves entering a building, structure, or dwelling without authorization
with the intent to commit
theft, a felony, or another criminal act.
In Illinois, burglary is categorized into two degrees: first-degree burglary
and second-degree burglary.
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First-Degree Burglary: This offense occurs when a person knowingly enters or remains within a
building, including homes, without permission and intends to commit a
felony or theft while inside. First-degree burglary is considered a Class
2 felony in Illinois.
-
Second-Degree Burglary: Second-degree burglary is charged when a person enters or remains within
a building, again without authorization, with the intent to commit a misdemeanor
or any offense other than a felony or theft. This crime is classified
as a Class 3 felony.
Burglary charges can result in severe legal consequences, making it essential
to seek experienced legal representation as soon as possible.
What are the Penalties for Burglary in Illinois?
The penalties for burglary in Illinois can be harsh, and the specific consequences
you face will depend on the degree of burglary you are charged with and
the circumstances surrounding the offense.
Here's an overview of the potential penalties:
-
First-Degree Burglary: If convicted of first-degree burglary, you may face a prison sentence
of 3 to 7 years and substantial fines of up to $25,000. Additionally,
a conviction can have long-lasting effects on your criminal record and
future prospects.
-
Second-Degree Burglary: For second-degree burglary, the penalties are slightly less severe but
still significant. You could be sentenced to 2 to 5 years in prison and
fined up to $25,000.
It's important to note that these penalties can be enhanced if certain
aggravating factors are present, such as the use of a weapon, causing
bodily harm, or targeting a school or daycare facility. In such cases,
the consequences can be even more severe.
Defenses Against Burglary Charges
Facing burglary charges can be incredibly stressful, but it's important
to remember that there are potential defenses that can be employed to
protect your rights and secure a favorable outcome.
At McCall Law Offices, P.C., our experienced Peoria burglary lawyers will
explore all possible defenses tailored to your unique case, including:
-
Lack of Intent: Proving that you did not have the requisite intent to commit a theft or
felony while inside the premises can be a strong defense against burglary charges.
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Mistaken Identity: If there is doubt about your identity as the perpetrator, our skilled
defense attorneys will work to establish reasonable doubt in your case.
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Lack of Evidence: Challenging the evidence presented by the prosecution is often a crucial
part of a successful defense strategy. This may include questioning the
legality of the search and seizure, the reliability of witnesses, or the
credibility of the evidence itself.
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Alibi: Providing a strong alibi can help establish that you were not present
at the scene of the alleged burglary.
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Consent: If you had permission to enter the premises, it can be a valid defense
against burglary charges.
Our dedicated legal team will thoroughly investigate your case, gather
evidence, and craft a robust defense strategy tailored to your specific
circumstances. We understand the complexities of Illinois burglary laws
and will work tirelessly to protect your rights and seek the best possible
outcome for your case.
Contact Our Peoria Burglary Attorney Today
Facing burglary charges in Illinois, is a serious matter that requires
immediate and experienced legal representation. At McCall Law Offices,
P.C., we are committed to advocating for your rights and providing you
with the strong defense you need during this challenging time. Our Peoria
burglary lawyers are well-versed in Illinois criminal law and will work
diligently to help you achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Contact McCall Law Offices, P.C. today to schedule a consultation with our burglary lawyer in Peoria!