Denver Burglary Attorney
Experienced Defense for Burglary Charges in Colorado
Burglary is deemed one of the most serious criminal offenses in Colorado. It involves entering a building or residence unlawfully with the intent to commit a crime. Burglary can be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the circumstances. If you are convicted of burglary, you may face large fines and lengthy prison sentences.
At Fife Luneau, P.C., we take pride in offering our clients skilled legal counsel and unwavering support. Our Denver burglary lawyer is dedicated to protecting your rights and reaching the best possible outcomes for your case. If you face burglary charges, do not hesitate to contact us today.
Call Fife Luneau, P.C. today at (720) 408-7130 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our burglary lawyer in Denver.
What is Burglary?
Burglary involves entering a building or property unlawfully with the intention to commit a crime, generally theft, assault, or another felony. Burglary can occur in both residential and commercial settings and can be further categorized into two degrees:
- First-Degree Burglary: This is the most severe form of burglary and involves entering a dwelling to commit a crime while armed with a deadly weapon. First-degree burglary is a Class 3 felony in Colorado, and a conviction can result in significant prison time and fines.
- Second-Degree Burglary: Second-degree burglary occurs when someone enters a building to commit a crime without being armed with a deadly weapon. This is a Class 4 felony in Colorado and carries its own set of penalties.
What Are the Penalties for Burglary in Colorado?
Understanding the potential penalties for burglary is crucial, as they can profoundly impact your life and future. If you or a loved one is facing burglary charges, it is essential to be aware of the potential consequences:
- Incarceration: A conviction for first-degree burglary may result in a prison sentence of up to 12 years, while second-degree burglary may lead to up to six years of imprisonment.
- Fines: Burglary convictions can result in hefty fines, which can vary from thousands to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the degree of the charge.
- Probation: In some cases, a judge may order probation as an alternative to incarceration. Probation typically involves stringent conditions and supervision.
- Criminal Record: A burglary conviction can leave you with a permanent criminal record, impacting your future employment and housing prospects.
- Restitution: In addition to fines, you may be required to compensate the victim for any damages or losses resulting from the burglary.
Defenses Against Burglary Charges
Some common defenses against burglary charges may include:
- Lack of Intent: If your attorney can demonstrate that you did not have the intent to commit a crime when entering the premises, it could lead to a lessening or dismissal of charges.
- Consent: If you had permission to enter the property, you may have a valid defense against burglary charges.
- Alibi: Proving that you were elsewhere at the time the burglary occurred can be a strong defense against the charges.
- Invalid Search and Seizure: If evidence was received through an illegal search or seizure, it may be inadmissible in court.
- Mistaken Identity: Showing that you were wrongly identified as the perpetrator is a potential defense.
Common Mistakes When Accused of Burglary
Facing burglary charges can be overwhelming, and individuals often make critical mistakes that can jeopardize their defense. Here are some common missteps to avoid:
- Not Seeking Legal Counsel Early: One of the most significant errors is failing to engage a qualified attorney as soon as possible. Early legal representation can make a crucial difference in safeguarding your rights and building a robust defense strategy.
- Talking to Law Enforcement Without Representation: Many individuals mistakenly believe they can explain their side of the story to law enforcement without repercussions. However, anything said to the police can be used against you in court, so it’s vital to have legal counsel present during any discussions.
- Neglecting to Document Evidence: After an accusation, it’s essential to gather and document evidence that supports your innocence. This may include photographs, witness statements, or any other relevant information. Delaying this process can result in lost evidence that could strengthen your case.
- Making Statements on Social Media: In the age of technology, sharing your situation or thoughts on social media can be detrimental. Prosecutors may use posts to misconstrue your intentions or character, so it’s best to refrain from any online discussions related to the case.
- Underestimating the Importance of Preparation: Many accused individuals fail to prepare adequately for court appearances or hearings. Understanding the legal process and your rights can significantly influence the outcome of your case, so taking the time to prepare is essential.
Avoiding these common pitfalls can significantly affect the trajectory of your burglary case and enhance your chances of a favorable outcome.
Protect Your Rights with an Experienced Burglary Attorney
Being charged with burglary is a serious offense that can have long-lasting consequences. It is crucial to have a skilled and experienced burglary attorney on your side to protect your rights and provide a strong defense. At Fife Luneau, P.C., our Denver burglary attorney has a proven track record of successfully defending clients facing burglary charges in Colorado.
When you choose our legal team, you can expect:
- Thorough investigation of the circumstances surrounding your case
- Strategic defense strategies tailored to your specific situation
- Expert representation in court proceedings
- Clear communication and guidance throughout the legal process
- Dedicated advocacy to achieve the best possible outcome for your case
Don't face burglary charges alone. Contact our burglary lawyer in Denver today to schedule a consultation and discuss your legal options.
Contact Our Burglary Lawyer in Denver Today
At Fife Luneau, P.C., our Denver burglary attorney will work tirelessly to investigate your case, analyze the evidence, and create a robust defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances. We are committed to protecting your rights and securing the best possible outcome for your case, whether through negotiation, litigation, or alternative sentencing options. Your future is important; we are here to help you protect it.
Contact Fife Luneau, P.C. today to get started with our Denver burglary attorney.
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Acquitted of All Charges DUI Acquittal
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Dismissed Attempted Murder, Assault, Menacing with a Deadly Weapon, Distribution of Marijuana
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Fife Luneau, P.C. is one of the most respected law firms when it comes to DUI and criminal defense cases. We have a remarkable track record up and down the Front Range, successfully handling some of the most complex cases.
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- Attempted Murder, Assault, Menacing with a Deadly Weapon, Distribution of Marijuana
Have Questions?
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How should I choose a Denver criminal defense attorney?First and foremost, your lawyer should be confident and knowledgeable in their practice. You should always feel comfortable with discussing the details of your situation and your freedom and your rights should be your counsel’s top priority. At Fife Luneau, P.C., our team has a true passion for what we do, and our experience and zealous advocacy is a testament to this. We have a proven track record for results and will always fight for your best interest.
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How much are your legal fees?Fife Luneau, P.C. handles cases on an upfront flat-fee schedule that is determined based on how severe your charges, how complex the case, and whether you need to go to trial. We will discuss all issues with you beforehand, and once you agree to our fees, we’ll hold your money in a trust on your behalf. This way we can focus on your matter and not on money. Our firm also accepts all major credit cards.
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After an arrest, what are my rights?Every U.S. citizen is granted certain rights by the Constitution. These include the face that you are innocent until proven guilty, and that burden is put on the prosecution. After you have been charged, you have the right to a public trial, skilled counsel of your choosing or a court-appointed lawyer, if needed, the right to remain silent to protect yourself from incrimination, the right to cross-examine the accused, the right to testify, or not, and the right to an appeal.