Burglary Charge Assistance in Pittsburgh
Retain an Experienced Pittsburgh Criminal Defense Lawyer
The crime of burglary is defined in by Pennsylvania law as having two elements: (1) breaking into a building or structure (2) with the intent of committing a crime within it (18 Pa. Con. Stat. § 3502.) In order for you to be convicted of burglary, both of these elements of the crime must be proven in court beyond reasonable doubt. Your prosecution will use all of the evidence available to them in order to attempt to demonstrate these elements and warrant a conviction. This makes a well-orchestrated criminal defense vital to your livelihood and freedom.
When you are facing charges of burglary, it is important to have your case evaluated by a Pittsburgh criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. The Law Offices of Melvin L. Vatz have defended those accused of numerous types of theft crimes in the Pittsburgh metropolitan area for many years, utilizing more than four decades of criminal defense experience. Attorney Vatz has earned an AV® Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the highest rating available, demonstrating his dedication to his practice and the needs of his clients.
Call the Law Office of Melvin L. Vatz at 412-391-3030 today and request a free, confidential case evaluation for your charges today.
Burglary and Other Related Charges
While burglary is the act of knowingly breaking into a building with the intent of committing a crime, there are several other similar charges that could also be added on to your case. If you are facing burglary charges, it is paramount that you contact a criminal defense attorney for assistance as soon as possible.
Home Invasion:
Home Invasion occurs when the building that is broken into is a residence. This is not a separate crime from burglary, but has stiffer punishments. You could even be facing first-degree felony charges if the resident was at home at the time of the break-in.
Possession of Burglar’s Tools:
Possessing burglar’s tools with the intent on using them to commit burglary (or allowing them to be used knowing the intent to commit a crime) is considered punishable in Pennsylvania by a fine of up to $1,000 and up to three years in prison.
Criminal Trespassing:
Trespassing is entering a private property without the authority to do so, but not necessarily with the intent of committing a crime (though intent can exist and trespassing can still be charged). This can be further aggravated if the entry is done in defiance of signs, a locked gate, or any other notice that entry is prohibited.
Have questions or need assistance with trespassing charges? Contact the renowned criminal defense team at the Law Office of Melvin L. Vatz today and get our experience in your corner for your case.