Burglary is a property crime that a person commits when they enter another person's property with the intent to commit a crime, especially theft. To be accused of burglary, a prosecutor must prove that a person entered the premises without authorization intending to carry out a crime. In the state of Florida, a burglary crime is charged as a felony and carries severe penalties, typically including prison, probation, and large fines.
If you face burglary charges, it is vital to contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible. Even if you face the minimum charges possible for burglary, they still have the potential to affect your freedom, future, and financial security.
The Minimum Sentence for Burglary in Florida
Even in the best-case scenario, a person still faces serious consequences for a burglary crime. For example, a person who doesn't commit burglary with a deadly weapon might still be charged with a second-degree felony.
The different types of sentences and penalties for burglary charges in Florida include the following:
- 3rd Degree Felony: This is the minimum sentence for a burglary charge in Florida. It can lead to imprisonment for up to 5 years and a fine of an amount up to $5,000.
- 2nd Degree Felony: This is the second-highest sentence for burglary in Florida. The sentence for 2nd-degree felony is up to 15 years of imprisonment and a $10,000 fine.
- 1st Degree Felony: This is the maximum penalty for burglary, with up to life imprisonment and a fine of up to $10,000.
Experienced & Skilled Tampa Burglary Defense Attorneys. Call Today: (813) 221-4200!
If you face Florida burglary charges, it is vital to have an experienced Tampa burglary defense attorney on your side. At Thomas & Paulk, P.A., we have handled more than 7,000 criminal cases throughout our legal careers. We have helped thousands of clients fight their charges to obtain successful outcomes, and we are ready to help you too. We know that the penalties associated with burglary crimes can be severe; for that reason, you will want someone who knows the laws and knows the most effective ways to protect your rights. We offer our clients results-oriented advice and representation to help their charges get reduced or even dismissed.
Don’t hesitate and contact our Tampa burglary defense lawyers today at (813) 221-4200!