Columbia Burglary Lawyer

There are a few differences between trespassing and burglary. A simple trespassing offense is one where the person did not enter into a person’s building with the intent to commit a crime inside the home. Trespassing generally occurs when someone is on another person’s property without their consent. Burglary is when one enters a building with the intent to commit a crime.

In South Carolina, burglary is considered a felony offense. Therefore, if you are facing charges, you may want to obtain the services of a Columbia burglary lawyer. An experienced theft attorney could fight for you and help you understand your legal options.

Burglary Penalties in Columbia

All burglary charges are felonies, which means defendants are facing several years imprisonment. Individuals facing a first-degree burglary charge are looking at a mandatory minimum of 15 years to life in prison. For a second-degree non-violent burglary offense, the defendant is facing up to ten years in prison. If they are charged with a second-degree violent burglary charge, then they are looking at up to 15 years imprisonment. A first-degree burglary offense carries up to five years in prison. The penalties are severe, which is why it is essential for defendants to reach out to a burglary lawyer in Columbia as soon as possible.

Enhancing Charges

Depending on the facts of the case, a defendant could be facing enhanced penalties. Examples of aggravating factors include whether the offender was armed with a deadly weapon during the act, whether the individual had a record of two or more burglary convictions, and whether they entered the building during the nighttime. These factors could enhance the charge to a first-degree felony.

What Elements of the Crime Does the Prosecution Have to Prove in a Burglary Case?

For each level of a burglary charge, there are different elements the prosecution has to prove. For a conviction for a first-degree burglary offense, the prosecution will look at whether:

• The alleged offender entered another’s building or dwelling without consent
• A deadly weapon caused physical injury to a person
• Use or threated use of a deadly weapon, or if they displayed what appeared to be a knife or firearm
• The defendant has a prior record of two or more burglary convictions or the breaking or entering occurs during the night time

In Columbia, the prosecution aggressively pursues burglary convictions. They prosecute them many times to the fullest possible extent. Defendants who are facing burglary charges should seek the services of an experienced criminal defense lawyer. A Columbia attorney knowledgeable about burglary charges could fight to ensure a defendant’s rights are being protected.

Speak to a Columbia Burglary Attorney Today

It is best to get help from a skilled attorney that has a deep of knowledge of criminal cases and have argued before in South Carolina Court of Appeals and the South Carolina Supreme Court on property crime issues. Those who have been charged with a burglary offense need to hire a lawyer because they are up against a felony conviction and possible prison time.

A Columbia burglary lawyer will make sure no stone is unturned. They could comb through evidence and all legal elements involved, independently review the evidence, and look for every legal issue available to defend your rights. Call today to schedule a consultation.