Have you been accused of burglary in Birmingham, Alabama? Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C. offers free consultations with a Birmingham burglary lawyer who can review the charges, explain your legal options, and answer your questions when you call (659) 266-7212. We’ll help you understand what to expect and how the criminal process may affect your case.
Burglary is a felony offense in Alabama that can carry significant penalties, including prison time and a permanent criminal record. The specific charges and potential consequences depend on the facts of the case, including the type of property involved, whether anyone was present, and other circumstances surrounding the alleged offense.
Why Choose Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C. to Help Me If I’ve Been Accused of Burglary in Birmingham?
When you’re facing burglary charges, choosing the right attorney can make a meaningful difference in your case. At Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C., we’ve spent decades defending people accused of crimes throughout Alabama.
Clients in Birmingham, AL, trust our Birmingham criminal defense lawyers because we offer:
- More than 100 years of combined legal experience handling a wide range of criminal defense matters.
- Extensive experience with local courts and prosecutors.
- A proactive approach to building your defense by reviewing the evidence, identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and protecting your constitutional rights.
- Trial-ready representation from attorneys who are prepared to defend your case in court when necessary—not just negotiate a plea.
- Direct guidance from experienced defense lawyers who will explain the charges, answer your questions, and keep you informed throughout your case.
Whether you’re under investigation or have already been charged, our firm is prepared to help. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a Birmingham burglary attorney.
What Is Burglary in Alabama?
Burglary is more than simply entering someone else’s property without permission. Under Alabama law, burglary generally involves unlawfully entering or remaining in a building or occupied structure with the intent to commit a crime inside. Depending on the circumstances, burglary charges may be classified as first, second, or third-degree burglary.
The specific charge often depends on factors such as the type of building involved, whether the structure was occupied, whether anyone was present, and whether a weapon was allegedly involved. Because burglary is a felony offense, a conviction can carry serious legal consequences.
What Are the Penalties for Burglary in Birmingham, Alabama?
A burglary conviction can result in severe criminal penalties in Alabama, including imprisonment and fines. The consequences you face depend on the degree of burglary charged, the facts of your case, and other circumstances.
Under Alabama law, burglary offenses carry the following penalties:
- Burglary in the first degree: Class A felony. Punishable by 10 years to life imprisonment and up to $60,000 in fines.
- Burglary in the second degree: Class B felony. Punishable by between 2 and 20 years imprisonment and up to $30,000 in fines.
- Burglary in the third degree: Class C felony. Punishable by between one year and one day and 10 years imprisonment, and up to $15,000 in fines.
The penalties for burglary can have lasting consequences beyond incarceration and fines. A felony conviction may also affect your ability to obtain employment, secure housing, possess firearms, or pursue certain professional licenses.
What Defenses Can Be Raised If I’m Accused of Burglary?
The defense that applies to your case depends on the allegations and the evidence. Burglary charges often turn on whether prosecutors can prove every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt.
Possible defenses may include:
- You did not unlawfully enter or remain in the building.
- There is insufficient evidence that you intended to commit a crime inside.
- You were misidentified as the person involved.
- The accusations are false or based on unreliable witness testimony.
- Evidence was obtained in violation of your constitutional rights.
A burglary charge does not automatically result in a conviction. A Birmingham criminal defense lawyer can review the facts of your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, and determine which defenses may apply.
How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help if You’ve Been Accused of Burglary
A burglary case may involve police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, forensic evidence, and questions about why you entered or remained on the property. A defense attorney can examine how the case was investigated and whether the evidence supports the charge filed against you.
Depending on the circumstances, your attorney may:
- Review the evidence and identify gaps or inconsistencies
- Determine whether prosecutors can prove each element of burglary
- Investigate witness accounts and other evidence
- Challenge evidence obtained through an unlawful search or seizure
- Communicate and negotiate with prosecutors
- Represent you at hearings and trial
An attorney can also explain the possible outcomes and help you make informed decisions as the case moves forward.
Schedule a Free Case Review With Our Birmingham Burglary Defense Lawyers
A burglary charge in Birmingham, Alabama, can carry serious consequences, but being charged does not mean you’ll be convicted. If you’re under investigation or have already been arrested, Jaffe, Hanle, Whisonant & Knight, P.C. can review your case, explain the charges, and discuss the legal issues involved.
Call today to schedule a free case review with a Birmingham burglary attorney. We’ll answer your questions, explain what to expect, and discuss the options available in your case.