Fairfax Burglary Defense Lawyer
Challenging Burglary Charges in Fairfax, Virginia
Have you been arrested for burglary? Also referred to as "breaking and entering," this crime involves unlawfully entering or remaining on another's property with the intention of committing a crime. Although burglary is most often associated with theft, a person may commit burglary by entering a property with the intention of assaulting another, committing arson, vandalism, or another criminal offense.
It is important to consult a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible in the face of burglary charges, as you will be at risk of facing felony charges and serious penalties if convicted. Fairfax burglary defense lawyer Vaughan C. Jones can offer you a free initial case evaluation to determine exactly how our firm can assist you.
Burglary Charges & Defense in Fairfax
Depending on the specific case, a burglary conviction may result in a minimum of 1 year in state prison. If the defendant was in possession of a deadly weapon or firearm or used a weapon in committing the offense, he or she may expect to face increased penalties, along with mandatory minimum penalties. However, if a criminal defense attorney can prove that the defendant only unlawfully entered the property, it is highly unlikely that the defendant would face felony burglary charges but rather a lesser crime of trespassing. Of course, the primary incentive will be to assist a defendant in avoiding a conviction altogether.
There may be viable defense strategies that a lawyer can explore on your behalf, in the face of your Fairfax burglary charges. For example, you may have been lawfully on the premises or may have been falsely identified in a line-up. You may have accidentally entered property or may have had good reason to believe that your presence was lawful.
Contact Fairfax burglary attorney Vaughan C. Jones today to learn more about how you can challenge your unique charges.