Portland Burglary Defense Attorneys

Burglary is a serious criminal charge that may result in a prison sentence of up to 20 years, in some cases. Also referred to as breaking and entering, burglary involves the criminal offenses of entering a building or dwelling with the intention of committing a crime. Whether or not the crime is actually carried out bears no importance on whether a person may face charges and a conviction for burglary – only the intent must have been present.

You will need a Portland burglary defense attorney on your side if you have been accused of or arrested for breaking and entering. When you go to any and all court appearances, there will be no other person on your side except for your defense attorney. As such, it is of the utmost importance that you ensure that you have made the right choice in your legal representation.

Portland, Oregon Burglary Charges and Penalties

Second degree burglary is defined as unlawfully entering a building with the intent to commit a crime. This is a Class C felony. This offense will be classified as first degree burglary and will be charged as a Class A felony if the building is a dwelling or if the offender:

• Is armed with a burglary tool or device, or a deadly weapon
• Causes or attempts to cause physical injury to another
• Uses or threatens to use a deadly weapon

First degree burglary may be punishable by a maximum prison sentence of 20 years; and second degree burglary with a maximum prison term of 10 years. Additional criminal penalties may be assessed, including fines, community service and probation.

Criminal Defense Lawyers in Portland

When facing burglary charges, it is always in your best interest to consult a Portland defense attorney as soon as possible, so you will have the greatest chance of avoiding a conviction and the many penalties associated with this.

Contact a Portland burglary defense lawyer at our firm to discuss your charges and how we can protect your rights and freedom.