For years now, our Delaware County Criminal Lawyers have been getting the best results for our clients. Here’s something to keep it mind. If you’re arrested it is crucial to avoid speaking with any law enforcement. You have a 5th Amendment right, use it and keep your mouth shut! Do not take take this advice lightly. Prosecutors will use anything you’ve said to police in order to obtain a conviction. The only person you need to talk to is a lawyer who can protect your rights and help your case. Many of our clients need help with burglary charges. If that’s you read on otherwise read our blog for other useful information. We know that this is a scary charge to face and not treated like a regular property crime.
First Degree Burglary in Delaware County
In general, the crime of burglary is breaking and entering to a dwelling space with the intent to commit a theft or other crime. First-degree burglary is the most serious form of burglary. Any person who breaks into and enters the dwelling house of another, in which there is at the time some human being, with intent to commit some crime therein, either:
1. By forcibly busting or breaking the wall, or an outer door, window, or shutter of a window of such house or the lock or bolts of such door, or the fastening of such window or shutter; or
2. By breaking in any other manner, being armed with a dangerous weapon or being assisted by one or more confederates then actually present; or
3. By unlocking an outer door by means of false keys or by picking the lock thereof, or by lifting a latch or opening a window, is guilty of burglary in the first degree.
Breaking and Entering in Delaware County
The crime of burglary has less to do with stealing and more to do with breaking and entering. Therefore, the intended crime does not even have to be theft, just a crime. For instance, breaking and entering with the intent to commit a sexual assault would qualify as burglary.
Punishment for First Degree Burglary
First degree burglary is punishable by imprisonment for a term of 7 to 20 years. This felony is one of Oklahoma’s “85 percent Crimes” which means that you’ll serve at least 85 percent of your sentence before being considered for parole. Best case scenario, you have to serve just under 6 years. Hiring a lawyer is the best way to try and avoid an overly burdensome sentence or to defend against your liability altogether.
Delaware County Burglary Lawyers
Our Delaware County Criminal Lawyers are in the business of defending clients with theft-related charges. We know that a conviction of first-degree burglary could mean the end of the world to someone. When there’s a client who needs their side heard , we are there to bat for them. There’s no need to go in alone. Call us today for a free consultation regarding your case.