Burglary, often referred to as “breaking and entering”, is the crime of breaking and entering into a structure for the purpose of committing another crime. The entry must be unauthorized but does not need to include the use of force. While burglary is often associated with theft, any unlawful entry for the purpose of committing any crime, such as theft or assault, constitutes burglary.
Burglary
Burglary Lawyer
If you have been arrested and charged with burglary or attempted burglary in Texas, you are facing serious misdemeanor or felony charges. A conviction or a poorly negotiated plea bargain deal could land you in jail, resulting in a permanent criminal record and tough consequences to deal with for the rest of your life. Burglary is different from theft or larceny. What defines burglary in Texas? Any of the following:
- Entering a habitation or building and committing or attempting to commit a felony, theft or assault
- Entering a private habitation or a building that was not open to the public with the intent of committing a felony, theft or assault
- Hiding in a habitation or building not open to the public with the intent to commit a felony, theft or assault
- Entering a vehicle or breaking into a coin-operated machine intending to commit a felony, theft or assault — a Class A misdemeanor as opposed to a felony charge for all other types of burglary
Burglary FAQs
Here are some common questions that our firm receives from clients involved in burglary cases
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What is Burglary?
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What are the Penalties for Burglary?Texas law concerning burglary is extremely strict and far-reaching. Penalties for a felony conviction may include anywhere from 180 days in state jail and/or a fine of no more than $10,000 up to life in prison.
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How Can We Defend You Against A Burglary Charge?One immediately obvious defense to a burglary charge is proving that you did not intend to commit a felony, theft or assault, or at least casting doubt on such intent. Other possibilities include that you did not know you were entering a building not open to the public or a private home, or that law enforcement entrapment caused you to do so.
