Burglary and Robbery are two very serious criminal offenses that anyone would want to avoid going on their record.

Burglary, also called “breaking and entering,” involves entering a building or structure with the purpose of committing a criminal act.  Burglary arrests are often made in conjunction with a Theft charge and usually take place in a home, commercial residence, or car.

Robbery involves using force to take another’s property and is often punished more harshly than Burglary. Often someone accused of Robbery could also most likely be facing a Theft, Burglary and/or Assault charge as well.

Degrees of Burglary

The law classifies Burglary by type/degree – all of which carry very serious implications:

First Degree Burglary – Is defined as breaking and entering when: any type of dangerous weapon is used, the burglar assaults someone in the building; and/or the place entered is occupied at the time the burglar is present.

Second Degree Burglary – Is also defined as breaking and entering, under the following circumstances: the building entered is a home, financial institute or pharmacy and/or entry is either forced or the burglar uses a tool to gain access to money or property.

Third Degree Burglary – Generally covers incidents where someone commits an act – like theft or another type of crime (that is considered a Gross Misdemeanor or a Felony) while breaking and entering into a building.

Fourth Degree Burglary – Often concerns incidents where someone commits an act – like theft or another type of crime (that is considered a misdemeanor) while breaking and entering into a building.

Degrees of Robbery

In Minnesota, there are three different degrees of Robbery: first degree, second degree and simple robbery. Whatever the category, it is important that you contact a qualified Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney as soon as possible.

First Degree Aggravated Robbery – Is defined as breaking and entering (while using a dangerous weapon) and inflicting bodily harm to another.

Second Degree Aggravated Robbery – Is defined as breaking and entering – and at the time of doing so – implying by word or act that you have a dangerous weapon.

Simple Robbery – Is the unlawful taking of property from another person (or in the presence of him or her)  while using or threatening to use force against that person.

Burglary-Robbery Penalties

Burglary and Robbery convictions often involve severe consequences, including long jail sentences and huge fines.

If found guilty of first degree Burglary, you could be sentenced to serve up to 20 years in prison and pay a $35,000 fine. A second degree Burglary charge comes with a 10 year prison sentence and a fine of $20,000. You may could face up to 5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine for a third degree Burglary conviction and up to 1 year in prison and a $3,000 fine for fourth degree Burglary.

A first degree aggravated Robbery conviction can earn you a prison sentence of up to 20 years and a fine of up to $35,000, or both. You cold be sentenced to serve up to 15 years in prison and pay a $30,000 fine if you’re convicted of second degree aggravated Robbery. Simple Robbery convictions can be punished with sentences of up to ten years in prison and fines of $20,000.

Free Criminal Case Consultation

If you or someone you love is facing Burglary, Robbery or any other related criminal offense, it is important that you act quickly to ensure that your  rights are protected. Think about it, if you’re convicted of Burglary or Robbery – the consequences could haunt you long after you’ve paid your debt to society. If you are currently under investigation or have already been charged with a either of these offenses, the first, best move you can make is to talk with an experienced Minnesota Criminal Defense Lawyer.

I represent men and women throughout Minnesota and the Twin Cities accused – wrongly or not – of Burglary and Robbery. Call me today to schedule your free, no obligation consultation. We’ll take the time to discuss your case and how I can help defend your rights and fight for you in court – at a cost that won’t break the bank. Don’t wait. Call me today at 612.234.1165.