Imagine walking through a neighborhood and deciding to explore an old, seemingly abandoned house. Suddenly, you find yourself facing serious burglary charges. This situation highlights how quickly a simple act of curiosity can escalate into a legal nightmare. Understanding what constitutes burglary and the defenses available can help prevent such predicaments.

Understanding burglary in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania law defines burglary as entering a building, home or any occupied structure with the intention of commiting a crime. It doesn’t matter if you break a window or walk through an open door or if the crime never occurred. What matters is your intent to commit a crime once inside.

Burglary is typically a first-degree felony, carrying severe penalties, including up to 20 years in prison. However, if the building wasn’t meant for overnight stays and no one was present during the entry, it might be a second-degree felony, which can still result in up to 10 years in prison.

Common defenses for burglary charges

Facing burglary charges can be scary, but some defenses might help. One common defense is proving the building was abandoned or open to the public. If you had permission to enter or a license to be there, that could also serve as a defense.

Sometimes, people argue that they didn’t intend to commit a crime. This could be a defense if someone were too intoxicated to form intent. However, navigating the legal system can be daunting, especially with serious charges like burglary.

Why you should seek legal help

Seeking legal advice is wise because an attorney can guide you through the complexities of Pennsylvania law. They can help build a strong defense, negotiate plea deals, or even get charges reduced or dismissed.

If you find yourself facing burglary charges, it is essential to take the right steps immediately. Understanding the law, knowing your defenses, and seeking legal assistance can make a significant difference.