Burglary
Those accused of a crime are often surprised to see that they are also charged with burglary. This is because the legal definition of burglary is different than the acts normally associated with the term. While many believe such a charge means breaking into a home and stealing items, the actual offense is much more broad. If you are charged then you may possibly be convicted of a felony and you require assistance. Our Chicago burglary lawyer has substantial experience in handling such matters. Call our Orland Park office today to speak with our attorney.
HOW IS BURGLARY DEFINED ACCORDING TO ILLINOIS CRIMINAL LAW
Burglary occurs whenever one enters a building with the intention of committing a crime. It does not matter if the crime is actually committed – just entering a structure while having criminal intent is enough to bring charges. Convictions will normally constitute a Class 2 felony and carry a prison sentence of three to seven years or seven to fourteen years if the defendant is eligible for an expanded sentence. If the act is committed at certain facilities, such as a daycare or a church, then the defendant faces a Class 1 felony. A conviction means incarceration, financial penalties, and a permanent criminal record.
Illinois burglary charges are brought either by an Indictment or a preliminary hearing. Once the government is given permission to charge you then there will be an arraignment at which you will plead guilty or not guilty. If you invoke your right to a speedy trial then the case will go to trial within 180 days if you are out of custody or 120 days if you are incarcerated. During this time it will be necessary to gain all possible evidence which aids your defense and to limit the scope of the prosecution’s case as much as possible. Hiring a qualified criminal defense attorney is crucial.
OUR LEGAL FIRM PROVIDES RELIABLE AND EFFICIENT DEFENSE TO CLIENTS CHARGED WITH BURGLARY OFFENSES
Michael J. Brennan is a Chicago lawyer assisting defendants charged with burglary. After your initial arraignment Michael will acquire evidence such a police reports, witness statements, and any other items collected by police. If he determines your rights were somehow violated then he will file the appropriate Motions to exclude statements which were made to police, evidence which was collected off of your person, or eyewitness identifications which resulted from improper law enforcement procedures. A former prosecutor, Michael is experienced with handling such matters before a jury and will aggressively defend your rights throughout the process. He understands that you are facing a serious situation and he will take it seriously. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation.
We handle matters in areas of Cook County including Chicago, Chicago Ridge, Glenview, Crestwood, Orland Park, Evergreen Park, Bedford Park, Palos Park, Oak Lawn, Burbank, Oak forest, Blue Island, Palos Heights, Palos Hills, Alsip, Bridgeview, Lemont, Orland Hills, Country Club Hills, Hickory Hills, Summit, Richton Park, Midlothian, Worth, Posen, Matteson, Olympia Fields, Hometown, and Tinley Park, in DuPage County areas including Downers Grove, Naperville, Woodridge, and Darien, in Kane County areas including Aurora, Elgin and Geneva, and the Will County cities of Joliet, Bolingbrook, Mokena, Frankfort, New Lenox, Lockport, Homer Glen, Romeoville, and Manhattan.
Prosecutors take burglary cases very seriously as they are often seen as a crime of violence. Furthermore, defendants often face stiff penalties as such charges often accompany gun crimes or assault & battery cases. Michael provides the highest level of service in such instances. He has been practicing law for over thirty years, will promptly return your phone calls, and will ensure that you know what to expect as your case moves forward. Do not risk your future to a lesser experienced attorney. We are ready to assist you.