Facing Burglary Charges in Houston?
Attorney Joseph Gagliardi Will Fight for You
While burglary is a theft crime, it is often treated much more severely than a typical theft offense, such as shoplifting. Why? There are several elements involved in burglary offenses other than the crime of theft.
In addition to the theft element, burglary also involves the act of trespassing. People accused of such a crime will face serious penalties and repercussions, making it vital to retain counsel and legal protection quickly.
If charged with burglary, you have no time to lose. The Gagliardi Law Firm, PLLC’s legal team, led by Attorney Joseph Gagliardi, will put our insightful and strategic legal skills to work for your case. If you’re ready to discuss your case with our highly reputable and respected legal team, call us at 713-224-6277 or send our legal team a message now.
Since 2004 we’ve worked with the courts for the benefit of our clients, and we’ve only gotten better doing it. Whether this is your first time being in trouble with the law or your fourth, our firm is ready to fight on your behalf.
Burglary Cases: The Prosecutor’s Burden
Innocent Until “Proven” Guilty
In order to prove that you’re guilty of burglary, the prosecution must first be able to demonstrate that you committed criminal trespass. If proven, your penalties will be heavier than a regular theft offense, as mentioned earlier. Simply trespassing in a home and “intending” to steal something, without ever doing so, can land you in legal hot-water.
Criminal Penalties if Convicted of Burglary
- Burglary of a Building: This offense is a State Jail Felony in Texas, carrying between 180 days and 2 years in jail and up to a heavy $10,000 fine if convicted.
- Burglary of a Habitation: This offense is a 2nd Degree Felony in Texas, carrying between 2 and 20 years in prison time and a fine not to exceed $10,000.
Accused of Burglary of a Vehicle?
In Texas, there is also a type of crime known as vehicle burglary. This occurs when a defendant either breaks into or unlawfully enters a vehicle with the intent to commit some type of crime.
Even if an individual simply stuck an object into the vehicle (such as a tool for opening a door or grabbing a valuable inside), it would be considered entering, and thus, burglar of that vehicle.
This offense is a Class A Misdemeanor, which carries up to 1 year in jail and $4,000 in fines. In cases where a vehicle is being used as a living space, such as a trailer or large vehicle, the offense will be enhanced to Burglary of a Habitation (home) instead, carrying far more serious penalties.
You’ll Need The Right Lawyer to Beat a Burglary Charge
With serious penalties and the potential for lifelong consequences, it’s vital that you make contact with our legal team so can get to work on your case. With Atty. Joseph Gagliardi on your side, you can be confident your case is in qualified hands. Since 2004 Attorney Joseph Gagliardi has fought the good fight for his clients, and he’ll do the same for you.
Don’t let this situation ruin your future. Call The Gagliardi Law Firm, PLLC today at 713-224-6277 or fill out a free case evaluation form so we can begin working on your case.