Peoria Burglary Lawyer

Understanding 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 (309) 948-5908 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our burglary attorney in Peoria!

What Constitutes 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.

• 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.

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.

Effective 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• Alibi: Providing a strong alibi can help establish that you were not present at the scene of the alleged burglary.
• 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.

Get Legal Help from Our Peoria Burglary Attorney

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!