Being accused of burglary can feel overwhelming. Calls from officers, court notices, and uncertainty about the outcome can be unsettling. A Greenville burglary lawyer at Ellis Hinton can review the details, explain how charges are structured, and help make decisions based on facts rather than fear.
Working with a private defense firm means having someone handle evidence requests, guide you through court processes, and speak on your behalf so you do not risk missteps. While no outcome is guaranteed, our dedicated theft attorneys can examine how the state built its case and identify potential defenses or alternatives.
State law recognizes three degrees of burglary, each based on the nature of the property and the circumstances of entry. First-degree burglary involves breaking into a dwelling with the intent to commit a crime through actions, such as entering at night, using a weapon, or causing bodily harm. A conviction can bring a sentence ranging from 15 years to life.
Second-degree burglary falls into two categories. One involves entering a dwelling without consent and with the intention of committing a crime. The other involves entering a building with the intent, while aggravating factors are present. Because it is considered violent under certain conditions, it carries significant penalties.
Third-degree burglary applies to entering a building without consent and with the intent to commit a crime. While it is the lowest tier, it still qualifies as a felony and carries a sentence of up to five years for a first offense and up to ten years for a repeat offense.
If you are searching for a burglary defense attorney for information on how these levels differ and how to proceed, we are based in Greenville, serving South Carolina and beyond. The distinction between a dwelling and a building, as well as the presence or absence of aggravating factors, can significantly influence sentencing. Questions about consent, intent, or how police identified a suspect also play a central role in building a defense.
The prosecution must show not only that the entry occurred but also that it was unlawful and accompanied by the intent to commit another crime. Defense strategies often challenge those elements directly.
In some cases, the dispute arises over whether the location qualifies as a dwelling. In others, the focus is on how officers obtained evidence or whether a search complied with constitutional limits.
If you have been charged with burglary, a Greenville criminal defense lawyer can assess the reliability of identification methods, question forensic findings, and examine digital or video evidence. Practical steps our defense counsel can take include:
The goal is often to reduce a charge to a lesser degree, contest aggravating factors, or pursue resolutions that lessen long-term impact.
If you or someone you care about is facing a burglary charge, seek help today to better understand your situation. If you want guidance that accounts for both the law and your personal interests, speaking with a Greenville burglary lawyer from our firm can be a crucial step.
A careful review of your circumstances and the applicable state statutes can bring needed clarity and direction. With federal and state prosecutor experience, the team at Ellis Hinton can provide perspective, outline potential strategies, and help you prepare for what comes next. Schedule a confidential consultation to discuss how focused defense representation can protect your rights.
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