Eldersburg Burglary Defense Attorneys
Being charged with burglary is very serious, regardless of the degree. If convicted you could face harmful and lasting effects. A burglary conviction could affect your ability to seek future employment, could lead to time spent incarcerated, and can open yourself up to social embarrassment. The only way to avoid these charges and consequences is to hire an experienced Eldersburg, MD burglary defense attorney.
Know What You’re Being Charged With
You may know what degree you’re being charged with, but do you know what it means? In the state of Maryland there are four different degrees of burglary, with each getting less serious as they goes along.
First Degree
The most severe by far, first degree burglary charges in Eldersburg, MD can be punished by up to 25 years of imprisonment, that’s a quarter of a century, definitely a charge you would want to avoid. First degree burglary is defined as the breaking and entering of a dwelling with an intent to commit theft or a violent crime.
Second Degree
Drawing similarities to the first degree, the primary difference between the two is that second degree burglary takes place in a “storehouse”. A storehouse can mean a variety of buildings, but includes things like barns, storefronts, factories, and warehouses. Again there must be an intent to commit a violent crime. Second degree assault is punishable by a maximum of 15 years in jail.
Third Degree
Third degree charges stand out from the first two in that there are no specific crimes listed that fall under it. Instead it is defined as entering a dwelling with intent to commit a crime. It can bring with it up to 10 years of jail time.
Fourth Degree
Although it’s the least severe of all the charges, fourth degree burglary is still a very serious charge. Fourth degree charges are given to anybody who enters a storehouse or dwelling by breaking in, whether or not there was intent to commit a crime is irrelevant.
An Eldersburg, MD Burglary Defense Attorney With Experience
If you have been charged with burglary in Eldersburg, MD, don’t hesitate, contact Albers & Associates today. Our team is standing by at all times to assist you in any way we can. We can even offer a free consultation.