Burglary

Orange County residents have one of the highest average wages in the country, but many locals are struggling to pay their bills. Burglary may seem like a ridiculous option at first, but after some success with minor crimes those struggling to get by can make a huge mistake. If caught, those facing burglary charges can face years in jail or prison and thousands of dollars in fines. Orange County courts and prosecutors do not take burglary charges lightly, and you can expect them to prosecute those convicted of burglary to the fullest extent of the law. 

At Defense Attorneys Orange County, our burglary attorneys have worked with countless alleged criminals and have developed a reputation amongst their clients as hard-working, experienced, and aggressive criminal defenders. Defense Attorneys Orange County, firm partner, spent years as a former prosecutor and uses the knowledge he has gained to provide his best possible legal representation for every client that retains his services. His relationships with the prosecution, arresting officers, and other courtroom staff can be beneficial for those facing serious charges, and you will want every advantage you can get to help secure a successful case outcome.

Burglary Penalties and Fines 

Burglary in Orange County can be classified in two different ways: first degree burglary and second degree burglary. First degree burglary, also called residential burglary, is committed when a person burglarizes an inhabited dwelling. An inhabited dwelling is a place where people live and does not have to be occupied at the time of the burglary to be considered inhabited. Second degree burglary, also called commercial burglary, is usually an instance of shoplifting or petty theft. 

First degree burglary is a felony offense and is punishable by up to six years in a California state prison and up to $10,000.00 in fines. Second degree burglary can be a misdemeanor or a felony and is punishable by up to a year in the county jail and a $1,000.00 fine.

Burglary Legal Defenses 

Each burglary case is different and the methods for defending alleged offenders differ greatly depending upon the specific case circumstances. There are instances where an alleged burglar’s intent to burglarize cannot be established well enough. If the prosecution is unable to establish that an alleged burglar entered the scene of the crime in an effort to steal something, there may be grounds for a case dismissal or reduced charges.