Burglary Criminal Defense Lawyer | Orlando & Central Florida
Criminal Defense Attorney, Mary. M. Ibrahim proudly provides Burglary Criminal Defense legal services throughout Central Florida, including, Orange County, Osceola County, and Seminole County and surrounding areas.
Call 407.255.6300 today to schedule a confidential consultation with burglary criminal defense attorney, Mary M. Ibrahim.
Burglary is a serious offense in Florida, carrying significant penalties and long-term consequences. If you've been accused of burglary in Orlando, Orange County, or Central Florida, understanding the law and securing experienced legal representation is paramount. The Law Offices of Mary M. Ibrahim, P.A., is here to protect your rights and provide an aggressive defense.
Understanding Burglary in Florida (Florida Statute 810.02)
Burglary is more than just breaking into a building. Florida law defines it as entering or remaining in a dwelling, structure, or conveyance with the intent to commit an offense therein, unless the premises are at the time open to the public. The "intent to commit an offense" doesn't necessarily mean theft; it could be any crime, including assault or battery.
Types of Burglary Crimes in Florida
Florida law categorizes burglary based on several factors, including:
- Burglary of a Dwelling (Occupied vs. Unoccupied): A burglary is considered more serious if it occurs while someone is present in the dwelling, structure, or conveyance.
- Burglary of a Structure / Burglary of a Conveyance (Location): The type of building or conveyance involved (e.g., dwelling, business, vehicle) can influence the charges.
- Armed Burglary (Weapon or Assault): If a weapon is used during the burglary, or if anyone is assaulted, the charges are significantly enhanced.
Degrees of Burglary Crimes and Penalties
Burglary in Florida is typically classified as a second-degree or first-degree felony, with penalties varying based on the specific circumstances:
Second-Degree Felony: This generally involves the burglary of an unoccupied dwelling, structure, or conveyance. It's punishable by up to 15 years in prison.
First-Degree Felony: This includes burglaries where:
- A person is present in the dwelling, structure, or conveyance at the time of the offense.
- The offender is armed or uses a deadly weapon.
- The offender commits an assault or battery during the burglary.
- There is damage to property exceeding $1,000.
- It is a burglary of a lawfully authorized emergency vehicle.
First-degree burglary is punishable by up to life in prison.
Potential Burglary Defense Strategies
Building a strong defense against burglary charges requires a thorough understanding of the law and a meticulous examination of the facts. Some potential defense strategies include:
- Lack of Intent: The prosecution must prove intent to commit an offense inside the dwelling, structure, or conveyance. If the entry was unintentional or the intent was different, this could be a viable defense.
- No Entry: If the accused did not actually "enter" the premises as defined by law, the burglary charge may be challenged.
- Consent: If the accused had permission to enter the premises, it's not considered burglary.
- Mistaken Identity: Eyewitness testimony can be unreliable. Challenging the identification of the accused is a possible defense strategy.
- False Allegations: Sometimes, burglary accusations stem from misunderstandings or malicious intent. A skilled attorney can investigate the circumstances and expose false allegations.
- Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If the evidence is weak or circumstantial, the charges may be dismissed or reduced.
The Importance of Legal Representation in Burglary Criminal Defense Cases
Burglary charges are complex and carry severe consequences. Attempting to navigate the legal system without experienced representation is extremely risky.
Attorney Mary M. Ibrahim has a proven track record of successfully defending clients against burglary charges in Orlando and Central Florida. She will thoroughly investigate your case, protect your rights, and develop the most effective defense strategy possible. Don't face these charges alone. Contact The Law Offices of Mary M. Ibrahim, P.A., today for a confidential consultation. Let us fight for you.
Call 407.255.6300 today to schedule a confidential consultation with burglary criminal defense lawyer, Mary M. Ibrahim.
About Felony Crimes
In Florida, a felony is a serious criminal offense punishable by more than one year in state prison, up to life imprisonment, or even death. Felonies are categorized into degrees, with varying levels of severity and corresponding penalties. The most serious are capital felonies, punishable by death or life imprisonment, followed by life felonies, which carry a life sentence.
In Florida, a felony is a serious criminal offense punishable by more than one year in state prison, up to life imprisonment, or even death. Felonies are categorized into degrees, with varying levels of severity and corresponding penalties. The most serious are capital felonies, punishable by death or life imprisonment, followed by life felonies, which carry a life sentence. Third-degree felonies are the least severe, with a maximum of five years in prison and a $5,000 fine. Second-degree felonies are more serious, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. First-degree felonies carry the most substantial penalties, with up to 30 years in prison and a $10,000 fine, although some first-degree felonies have even harsher penalties.
Beyond imprisonment and fines, a felony conviction in Florida can have lasting consequences, impacting an individual's rights and opportunities. These can include restrictions on voting, firearm ownership, jury service, and certain professions. It's crucial to understand the potential ramifications of felony charges and seek experienced legal counsel. The specific penalties and classifications can be complex, so consulting with a qualified attorney is essential for anyone facing felony accusations.
About Felony Crimes
In Florida, a felony is a serious criminal offense punishable by more than one year in state prison, up to life imprisonment, or even death. Felonies are categorized into degrees, with varying levels of severity and corresponding penalties. The most serious are capital felonies, punishable by death or life imprisonment, followed by life felonies, which carry a life sentence.
In Florida, a felony is a serious criminal offense punishable by more than one year in state prison, up to life imprisonment, or even death. Felonies are categorized into degrees, with varying levels of severity and corresponding penalties. The most serious are capital felonies, punishable by death or life imprisonment, followed by life felonies, which carry a life sentence. Third-degree felonies are the least severe, with a maximum of five years in prison and a $5,000 fine. Second-degree felonies are more serious, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. First-degree felonies carry the most substantial penalties, with up to 30 years in prison and a $10,000 fine, although some first-degree felonies have even harsher penalties.
Beyond imprisonment and fines, a felony conviction in Florida can have lasting consequences, impacting an individual's rights and opportunities. These can include restrictions on voting, firearm ownership, jury service, and certain professions. It's crucial to understand the potential ramifications of felony charges and seek experienced legal counsel. The specific penalties and classifications can be complex, so consulting with a qualified attorney is essential for anyone facing felony accusations.
About Misdemeanor Crimes
In Florida, a misdemeanor is a criminal offense less serious than a felony, generally punishable by fines, probation, and up to one year in a county jail. Misdemeanors are categorized into two degrees: first-degree and second-degree.
A first-degree misdemeanor is the more serious of the two, carrying a maximum penalty of one year in jail and a $1,000 fine. Examples include battery, petit theft (first offense), and driving under the influence (DUI) – first offense. Second-degree misdemeanors are less severe, with a maximum of 60 days in jail and a $500 fine. These can include offenses like simple assault, disorderly conduct, and certain traffic violations.
While misdemeanors don't carry the same severe penalties as felonies, a conviction can still have negative consequences. A criminal record, even for a misdemeanor, can impact employment opportunities, housing, and other aspects of life. It's important to take any misdemeanor charge seriously and understand the potential ramifications. Although the penalties are less severe than felonies, legal representation is still crucial to protect your rights and minimize the impact of a conviction. Consulting with a qualified attorney is recommended if you are facing misdemeanor charges in Florida.
Orlando Burglary Criminal Defense Attorney serving Central Florida Area, including Orange County Florida, Orlando, Maitland, Apopka, Winter Park, Alafaya, Bay Lake, Belle Isle, Bithlo, Christmas, Doctor Phillips, Eatonville, Edgewood, Fairway Shores, Goldenrod, Gotha, Hunter's Creek, Lake Buena Vista, Lockhart, Meadow Woods, Oakland, Ocoee, Orlovista, Pine Castle, Pine Hills, Southchase, South Apopka, Taft, Tangerine, Union Park, Wedgefield, Williamsburg, Windermere, Winter Garden, Zellwood, Seminole County Florida, Sanford, Longwood, Altamonte Springs, Casselberry, Forest City, Geneva, Goldenrod, Heathrow, Lake Mary, Lake Monroe, Oviedo, Wekiva Springs, Winter Springs, Osceola County Florida, Kissimmee, St. Cloud, Campbell, Celebration, Champions Gate, Deer Park, Four Corners, Harmony, Intercession City, Kenansville, Narc oossee, Poinciana, Reunion, Yeehaw Junction, and surrounding Central Florida Areas.
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