If you are facing burglary charges in Arizona, it is crucial to understand the gravity of the situation and what you will be up against in court. Arizona law prosecutes burglary as a felony, which comes with possible fines, prison time, and/or probation. At Suzuki Law Offices, our Phoenix burglary defense lawyer is dedicated to fighting for the best possible outcome for your case.
With Suzuki Law Offices on your side, you can access a team of former prosecutors who understand how to attack criminal cases from every angle. We have the experience and resources to defend against your Arizona burglary charges. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you defend against possible sentences for burglary in Arizona.
Charged with Burglary Felony in Arizona
Burglary is a serious offense in Arizona, with possible sentencing varying depending on the specific charges. All burglary charges in Arizona are handled as felonies under Arizona Legislature Sec:13-15, a classification typically associated with more severe sentencing if convicted. This law also outlines criminal trespassing and different types of theft crimes.
The consequences of a burglary conviction can extend far beyond time in prison. A criminal record leaves a lasting impact, limiting your opportunities for education, employment, and housing. In addition to these effects, you could also face other consequences, such as:
- Prison time: Up to 10 years in prison
- Fines: Up to $100,000
- Restitution: Repaying the victim for their losses
- Probation: Restrictions include drug testing, meeting with a probation officer, and requirements such as finding employment or staying away from certain individuals.
Factors Affecting Sentencing in Arizona Burglary Cases
According to Arizona law, burglary is a serious offense involving unlawfully entering or remaining in a structure or property with the intent to commit a crime. There are three degrees of burglary, each with its specific penalties, and penalties can vary depending on the circumstances.
The most severe form, burglary in the first degree, involves entering a structure while possessing explosives, a deadly weapon, or a dangerous instrument. This is a class 2 felony if committed in a residential structure and a class 3 felony if committed in a nonresidential structure or fenced yard. Second-degree burglary is a class 3 felony and involves unlawfully entering or remaining in a residential structure with the intent to commit a crime.
Burglary in the third degree involves unlawfully entering or remaining in a residential structure or fenced yard or entering a motor vehicle using manipulation or a master key with intent to commit a crime. This is a class 4 felony. No matter what you are charged with, seeking legal advice from an experienced burglary defense attorney can help you understand possible sentences for burglary in Arizona.
Prior Criminal History
A person’s prior criminal history can significantly impact the sentencing for a burglary conviction in Arizona. The state’s criminal law authorities’ sentencing guidelines consider a defendant’s criminal record to determine an appropriate punishment. A habitual offender will have harsher penalties imposed upon them than a first conviction.
Even if a defendant’s prior convictions are not for burglary, they can still affect their sentencing. A history of violent crimes, property crimes, or drug offenses can all be considered aggravating factors. If you are facing burglary charges, it is crucial to consult with an experienced Arizona criminal defense attorney today.
Potential Sentences for Convicted Arizona Burglars
Burglary is a serious crime in Arizona. All burglary convictions are prosecuted as felonies, which means they carry significant potential consequences. From the link above, here’s a breakdown of the potential penalties for each class of burglary:
- Class 2 Felony: Up to 10 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $150,000.
- Class 3 Felony: Up to 7 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $150,000.
- Class 4 Felony: Up to 3 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $150,000.
While these are maximum penalties, being charged with a felony is not something you want to risk. The actual sentence for burglary in Arizona may be shorter depending on various factors, such as the defendant’s criminal history, the circumstances of the burglary, and any mitigating evidence. If you are facing burglary charges in Arizona, it is crucial to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help you understand your legal options.
How Suzuki Law Offices Can Help With Your Arizona Burglary Case
At Suzuki Law Offices, our Phoenix burglary defense attorneys are committed to providing comprehensive legal representation. We meticulously analyze every aspect of your case, searching for vulnerabilities in the prosecution’s evidence and potential legal defenses. Some possible defense strategies include:
- Alibi: A strong alibi can provide compelling evidence of your innocence. We will work to establish your whereabouts during the alleged crime.
- Duress: If you were coerced or forced into committing the crime, we can argue that your actions were not voluntary.
- Lack of intent: We can challenge the prosecution’s claims by demonstrating a lack of criminal intent. You cannot be held liable if you did not intend to commit a crime.
- Misidentification: We can work to prove that you were mistakenly identified as the perpetrator. This may involve analyzing witness testimony, physical evidence, or surveillance footage.
- Unlawful treatment: If law enforcement violated your rights during the investigation, we may be able to use this to your advantage. For example, if they entered your property without a warrant, this could undermine the evidence they gathered.
We will also examine all evidence presented for potential to be thrown out. Even if these defense strategies are not enough to overcome the evidence against you, we will do everything to lessen the possible sentencing for burglary.
Do Not Let Burglary Charges Ruin Your Future, And Contact Suzuki Law Offices Today
Facing burglary accusations can be a daunting experience. At Suzuki Law Offices, our experienced burglary defense attorneys will help you build a strong defense. With our team of former prosecutors, we understand how the prosecution works and can develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific case.
Read our client reviews and testimonials to see how we have been successful with past cases just like yours. Once you are ready to get started, contact us for a free, confidential consultation. Let us help you fight for your freedom.
Call or text (602) 682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form