Los Angeles Burglary Theft Defense Attorney
Burglary is a serious criminal offense in California. If you are charged, a Los Angeles burglary theft defense attorney should be consulted to help with your case. You may be able to plea bargain down the criminal charges to a lesser offense or you may be able to avoid a conviction altogether with the help of a skilled lawyer.
Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox LLP has extensive experience representing clients throughout Los Angeles after accusations are made of involvement in a burglary. We are available any time to provide you with legal help and dedicated representation when you face serious criminal charges.
Burglary Laws in Los Angeles
California Penal Code Section 459 defines the offense of burglary. Burglary occurs when both of the following are true:
- You enter a house, room, apartment, or certain other type of structure.
- You enter with the intent to commit grand or petit larceny, or with the intent to commit any felony offense
The law makes clear that burglary is an intent crime. Simply entering a structure is not enough to secure a conviction for this offense, even if you enter without lawful permission. You must intend to do something wrong once you are inside of the structure. The prosecutor has the burden of proving both of these elements of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. If the prosecutor is not able to succeed because you can introduce questions in the mind of the jury, you should be found not guilty.
How a Burglary Theft Defense Attorney Can Help
A burglary theft defense attorney can help you decide if you want to plead not guilty or if you want to admit you broke the law and try to negotiate a favorable plea deal. At Milligan, Beswick, Levine & Knox LLP, we can talk to the prosecutor on your behalf and try to get you the minimum possible penalties if you don’t want to take a chance on a trial.
We are also ready to fight for your freedom, reputation and clean record by going to court. We can help you present a strong defense arguing that you didn’t unlawfully enter, that you had no intent to commit a crime. or that you otherwise did not behave in a way that violated California’s burglary laws.
Burglary cases can be complicated because the jury often makes decisions based on which witnesses are more credible. We will work hard to help you avoid being found guilty so you can stay out of jail. Call today to schedule a consultation and learn more.
