Being charged with burglary can be a stressful ordeal. A conviction can lead to heavy fines, the loss of your freedom, and difficulty finding employment and housing after you serve your time. If you are facing allegations of committing this serious crime, you can rely on the legal services of a Chula Vista burglary lawyer. They can fight your charges and secure a favorable outcome to your case. Legal representation can often greatly improve the result of a criminal case.
Why Choose Lee Law Group DUI & Criminal Attorneys?
Being charged with burglary does not mean you will have to live with a burglary conviction on your record, along with the long-term consequences of the stigma tied to this crime. For decades, defendants in Chula Vista have trusted Lee Law Group DUI & Criminal Attorneys to see them through difficult cases. We understand the state’s burglary laws and how to successfully help our clients avoid serious penalties.
We understand that the burden of proof falls on the prosecution. Any steps we take to chip away at their case can improve your defense. If the prosecution does not have clear and convincing evidence that you committed the crime, we can push to have your charges dropped. As your Chula Vista criminal defense lawyer, if the value of the stolen items is lower than the prosecution claims, we can work to have the charges reduced.
Burglary Charges in Chula Vista: What You Need to Know
Burglary in California involves unlawfully entering a structure with the intent to commit theft or another crime. The law distinguishes between first-degree burglary, which involves residences, and second-degree burglary, which applies to businesses or other structures. First-degree burglary is charged at the felony level in all cases, but second-degree burglary can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony.
The prosecution must prove that the accused entered the building with criminal intent. Actual theft or another crime does not need to occur for burglary charges to apply. The severity of the charge depends on factors such as whether the structure was occupied, whether a weapon was involved, and the accused’s criminal history.
Potential penalties include jail or prison time, fines, and probation. Legal defenses may focus on lack of intent, mistaken identity, or unlawful police conduct. The strength of the prosecution’s evidence has a key role in determining a case’s outcome.
Why Choose Lee Law Group DUI & Criminal Attorneys?
Affordable Justice
Everyone deserves a powerful defense. We’re committed to making fierce, effective representation accessible and affordable.
Experienced and Unyielding
With 20 years of legal experience, we’ve honed the instincts, strategy, and grit needed to deliver results—even in the toughest situations.
Client-Centered Protection
When you hire us, you’re under our wing. We take on your burden, reduce your anxiety, and give you the strength of knowing someone has your back.
Strength with Compassion
We combine inner steel with heartfelt empathy. Our clients aren’t just cases—they’re people who deserve to feel protected, supported, and understood.
Relentless Advocacy
We fight for our clients with unshakable determination. Like a pitbull in the courtroom, we don’t back down—ever—until the judge says it’s over.
Legal Defenses Against Burglary Accusations
To prove that someone committed the crime of burglary, prosecutors must use evidence to show that the accused unlawfully entered a structure with the intent of committing theft or another crime. Many criminal defense strategies can fight these charges. One common defense strategy is to show that the defendant did not intend to commit burglary. An example could include proving that the defendant mistakenly thought it was their residence or one they were invited to.
Mistaken identity is another defense, especially in cases relying on surveillance footage or witness statements. Consent or lawful entry may also apply if the accused had permission to be on the property. Illegal searches or procedural violations by law enforcement can lead to evidence being suppressed.
Why You Need a Chula Vista Burglary Lawyer
Prosecutors often seek harsh penalties for burglars, even when it is their first offense. Given the serious consequences of a conviction, securing legal representation should be any defendant’s first step. A burglary lawyer in Chula Vista understands the laws and the legal burden prosecutors must meet to find someone guilty.
The work of a criminal defense attorney can lead to reduced or dropped charges. In some cases, their efforts can reduce a felony to a misdemeanor charge. Defense attorneys are also skilled negotiators who can work with the prosecution. They could secure an agreement that serves the interests of justice and considers any mitigating factors tied to the case.
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“I can’t thank Ernest Lee enough for their incredible work on my case. From the beginning, they were professional, knowledgeable, and truly dedicated to getting the best possible outcome for me.”
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“Mr. Lee was truly a godsend. From the moment I met him, he showed nothing but kindness, patience, and genuine care for me and my situation. He’s not just a brilliant defense lawyer—he’s someone who truly cares about his clients on a perso”
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Q: How Much Time Do You Get for Burglary in California?
A: The time you get for burglary in California depends on the circumstances, including whether the alleged crime involved a residence or a business. More serious cases can result in felony charges, which carry harsher consequences, while lesser offenses may be charged as misdemeanors. A defense attorney can evaluate the details of the case and explore options for reducing or dismissing the charges.
Q: What Is the Most Serious Type of Burglary?
A: The most serious type of burglary depends on factors like the location of the alleged offense and whether the property was occupied. Cases involving homes or inhabited structures are typically treated more seriously than commercial burglary. The penalties depend on the details of the case, and an experienced defense attorney can work to minimize the potential consequences.
Q: Is Burglary a Wobbler in California?
A: Some burglary charges are wobblers, meaning they can be prosecuted as either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on the details of the case. Factors like the type of property involved, prior criminal history, and whether force was used can influence how the prosecution pursues charges. A strong legal defense can reduce the severity of the charges.
Q: What Are Possible Defenses Against Burglary Charges?
A: Common defenses include lack of intent, mistaken identity, or insufficient evidence. In some cases, an attorney may argue that the accused had permission to enter the property or that no crime actually occurred. Challenging the prosecution’s evidence and identifying weaknesses in the case can be key strategies in securing a favorable outcome.
Q: Can a Felony Burglary Charge Be Reduced to a Misdemeanor?
A: Yes, a felony burglary charge can be reduced to a misdemeanor when the value of the stolen property falls below a certain threshold. Your defense attorney can do this by closely examining the property and determining what its true value is. The difference between a felony and a misdemeanor is quite significant.
Schedule Your Burglary Charge Consultation Today
Being charged with burglary can mark the beginning of a stressful ordeal. Hiring a criminal defense attorney early on can give them the time they need to build a strong defense against your allegations. Lee Law Group DUI & Criminal Attorneys can fight your charges and get your side of the story across in court.
Our criminal defense team has over 20 years of experience in securing favorable outcomes for our clients. Don’t let burglary charges define your future.
