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Burglary

New York Attorneys Defend Clients on Burglary Charges

Experienced lawyers in Staten Island represent residents in the tri-state area

Burglary is a felony in New York, and conviction can result in very long prison sentences. The criminal defense lawyers at Gregg & Associates P.C. have been defending clients facing burglary charges in the greater New York metro area since 1998. Prosecutors must prove two elements under NY burglary laws: that you trespassed or remained on property knowing it was unlawful, and that you intended to commit a crime when you entered the building. We take pride in our experience and ability to provide those we represent with winning defense strategies when they face burglary accusations.

The range of burglary charges in New York

New York law charges three degrees of burglary:

  • Third-degree burglary. The least severe burglary charge, it involves only these two elements — knowingly entering/remaining unlawfully and intending to commit a crime (even if no crime was committed). It is a Class D felony punishable by one to seven years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.
  • Second-degree burglary. When the elements of third-degree burglary are met, and the building is a dwelling or you are armed with a weapon or explosives, cause physical harm or display a firearm, you face second-degree burglary charges. It is a Class C felony punishable by one to 15years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.
  • First-degree burglary. The most serious burglary offense, it involves a dwelling and one of the other aggravating elements of second-degree burglary. It is a Class B felony punishable by one to 25 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.

No matter which burglary charge you face, it is essential to speak to a skilled criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.

Benefits of using a skilled New York burglary defense lawyer

A burglary conviction carries a lengthy prison sentence. If you have a prior conviction, the penalty can be even more severe. Defenses to burglary charges include showing you:

  • Lacked the intent to trespass
  • Did not actually trespass or your presence was lawful
  • Lacked intent to commit a crime within the building
  • Were not armed

The experienced assault defense attorneys at our firm understand the nuances between the degrees of burglary. We can challenge evidence that escalates a charge to the next level and may be able to negotiate a plea to a lesser charge. If you are convicted, we have experience persuading courts to reduce a sentence.

Contact an experienced burglary defense attorney in Staten Island, NY

Gregg & Associates P.C. offers a free initial consultation at our Staten Island office. If you are facing any level of burglary charge, please contact our criminal defense attorneys to discuss your case and see how we can help. To schedule a consultation, please call us at 866-308-3353 or contact us online.

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