Tampa Burglary Defense Lawyer

Florida Breaking & Entering Charges

According to Florida Statutes §810.02, burglary occurs when someone enters a building (a dwelling, structure, or conveyance) with the intent to commit a crime, such as a forcible felony. This includes remaining in a building or premises after the invitation to stay has been withdrawn. Burglary is also referred to as "breaking and entering."

Are you facing burglary charges? Have you been accused of breaking and entering? The first thing to do is exercise your right to remain silent. The second thing is to contact an attorney. Only with proper legal counsel can you avoid the serious penalties associated with a burglary conviction in Florida.

For a free, confidential review of your Tampa burglary case, call (813) 321-7323. Our former prosecutor can apply 20+ years of legal experience to your defense.

What Are the Penalties for Burglary in Florida?

Burglary carries significant penalties since it involves breaking and entering or the use of physical violation or the threat of it. 

It is a first-degree felony if the subject commits burglary while:

• Committing an assault and battery
• Armed with explosives or a dangerous weapon
• Entering into a dwelling using a motor vehicle as anything other than a getaway vehicle and causing property damage that exceeds $1,000 in monetary value 

This is punishable by up to life imprisonment. Exact penalties will vary depending on the specific act and circumstances.

The following charges and penalties may apply for burglary in Florida:

• First-degree burglary felony: life imprisonment.
• Second-degree burglary felony: up to 15 years in prison and $100,000 in fines.
• Third-degree burglary felony: up to 5 years in prison and $5,000 in fines.

Breaking & Entering During a State of Emergency

Burglary is treated differently if committed in a county declared in a state of emergency by the Governor of Florida. If a burglary occurred and was "facilitated by conditions arising from the emergency," it will also be considered a first-degree felony. This would be, for example, a burglary occurring after a natural disaster because there is panic, confusion, vacated houses, or limited law enforcement to help put a stop to such actions.

Charged with Burglary in Tampa? We Can Help.

Once a person has been charged with burglary, it is usually in their best interests to obtain the services of a skilled criminal defense attorney. As many burglary cases also involve other crimes, such as theft, you could face multiple charges. By working with an experienced lawyer, you can rest assured that your case will be handled by a professional who will place every effort into contesting the charges. 

As these charges are often backed with physical evidence (video surveillance, fingerprints, etc.), a criminal defense lawyer will need to work hard to find evidence or testimony to clear their client's name. At The Law Offices of Jeff Paulk, our Tampa burglary attorney dedicates the necessary time, energy, and resources to each individual client. 

Our firm has handled thousands of criminal cases, including hundreds of jury and non-jury trials. We have the skills and experience needed to help you fight for the best possible result. Regardless of how complex your case may be, our firm is prepared to handle your charges and protect your rights. 

Our Tampa breaking and entering defense lawyer is ready to hear your side of the story. Call us at (813) 321-7323 today for your free initial consultation.