
Burglary Attorney In Tampa, FL
Facing a burglary charge can be frightening. If you or a loved one finds themselves in a situation where they’re charged with burglary, you’ll need an experienced Tampa burglary lawyer to help you fight the charges.
Florida takes burglary charges seriously. It’s critical to know what you’re up against and what you’re being charged with. Amarosa Law Firm, P.A., has been helping people for almost twenty years. Jim Amarosa and his team bring experience and compassion to the table, winning acquittals in many tough cases. When you need a Tampa burglary attorney, Mr. Amarosa and his team stand ready to use trial strategies that get results. As a trusted Tampa Criminal Defense Lawyer, Mr. Amarosa provides dedicated representation for clients facing serious criminal charges.
What Is Burglary?
Under Florida law, committing burglary means entering a dwelling with the intent to commit a crime. Burglary also occurs if you enter a structure, which can be any building, or a conveyance, which is a motor vehicle, vessel, or ship.
In 2023, there were 163.1 burglary cases per 100,000 people in Florida. Even if nothing is stolen, entering a property without permission could result in burglary charges. If you’re not sure what constitutes burglary, some examples include:
- Taking a package from a front porch
- Entering a home through a door, even if it’s unlocked
- Entering an open garage without permission and causing damage
According to the Pew Research Center, about 2.5 million burglaries occur each year in the United States. It is the third most committed crime in the U.S., after larceny theft and motor vehicle theft.
Those accused of burglary will likely be brought to either the Falkenburg Road Jail or the Orient Road Jail for processing. It’s important to contact a lawyer quickly. In most Florida counties, you’ll appear before a judge within 24 hours for a First Appearance hearing.
Hire a Burglary Lawyer
Fighting burglary cases takes an experienced attorney who knows how to examine the facts of your case and determine potential defenses. Your attorney can help ensure that your rights are protected as your case moves through the criminal justice process in Tampa, FL. They can stand by you through questioning, your arrest, and the trial.
It’s important to hire a burglary lawyer if you’re facing charges, because they offer:
- Legal knowledge. An attorney has a thorough knowledge of Florida criminal law, which is essential for building a strong defense.
- Case evaluation. An attorney can review evidence to evaluate the weaknesses and the strengths of the case against you.
- Negotiation. An attorney can negotiate with the prosecution to seek lesser charges or a plea agreement.
- Effective defense strategies. An attorney can develop defense strategies based on your case.
Possible Defenses for Burglary
Building a defense for your burglary case takes experience and knowledge of Florida laws. There are several arguments that your lawyer can make in court. These include:
- No criminal intent. One of the two key elements of burglary is the intent to commit a criminal act. If the defendant was on the property but did not previously decide to commit a criminal act, it is a good defense for burglary charges.
- Space open to the public. Burglary requires unlawful entry. This is not possible if the property is open to the public.
- Mistaken identity. If surveillance video or witness statements are not clear, this can be used in your defense.
- Alibi. If it can be shown that the alleged perpetrator was somewhere other than where the crime took place at the time of the incident. This likely means they have a credible alibi, and it is a strong defense.
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FAQs
According to the FBI, the three types of burglary are forcible entry, unlawful entry without force, and attempted forcible entry. Forcible entry is when a person breaks a window or kicks down a door to gain entrance. Unlawful entry without force is committed when they walk through a door without permission. Attempted forcible entry occurs when someone attempts to use force to enter a home or building but is not successful.
The cost of a criminal lawyer in Florida depends on the complexity of your case. Attorneys have different fee structures based on their practice and experience. In some cases, a lawyer will ask for a retainer at the start of a case. They will bill the retainer until it’s used up. If it doesn’t cover the entire cost of the case, they will bill the client for the additional amount. Some attorneys charge a flat fee instead of hourly billing.
There is no set minimum sentence for burglary in Florida. Florida uses the Criminal Punishment Code, which is a point-based system to calculate a recommended sentence. The least severe form of burglary is third-degree burglary, followed by second-degree, and then first-degree. An attorney familiar with burglary laws can use the right legal strategy to get the optimal outcome, which could mean a reduced sentence.
There is no guarantee that you can beat a burglary charge, but a good Tampa burglary lawyer can create a solid defense. You may beat the charges if you are factually innocent or acted with a property owner’s consent. Florida law requires that the entry be unlawful. If you can present evidence that you had permission to enter the dwelling, you have a good case for dismissal.
Tampa Burglary Lawyer
Since there is a lot at stake if you’re facing burglary charges, you need a dedicated Tampa burglary attorney to help you fight for you. Amarosa Law Firm, P.A., is known for taking on tough cases and representing clients in both criminal and civil cases. With the knowledge and skill needed to effectively present your cases, they are the team you want on your side. Contact us today for a free consultation about your case, and we can discuss how we can help you.
Tampa, FL Burglary Resources