Burglary and robbery are both serious crimes. However, there are key differences that change the sentencing dramatically. If you have been charged with burglary or robbery, it is important to know the difference. Knowledge can help provide you with your strongest defense. Contact an experienced attorney in criminal law to ensure that you get a just trial.
Burglary Versus Robbery in Criminal Law
Definition of Burglary
Burglary is defined as entering a building or structure without permission with intent to commit a crime inside. Note that no actual theft needs to take place; simply having the intention to commit a theft is enough for law enforcement officials to charge someone with burglary. Additionally, burglary laws vary from state to state, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with your local laws.
Definition of Robbery
Robbery, on the other hand, is defined as taking another person’s property through force or threats. As with burglary, there does not need to be any actual physical contact for someone to be charged with robbery. Just displaying a weapon or threatening harm is enough for law enforcement officials to charge someone with robbery. It should also be noted that robbery does not require entry into a building or structure; committing the act on public or private land will still result in charges being filed against an individual if caught.
Penalties for Burglary vs Robbery
The potential penalties associated with burglary and robbery also differ significantly; burglary convictions generally carry lighter sentences than those associated with robberies due both to the varying definitions and different levels of severity associated with each crime type. For example, in most states first-time burglaries have a maximum penalty of one year in jail while first-time robberies can result in up five years behind bars depending on whether any weapons were used during the commission of the crime. Additionally, repeat offenders may face harsher punishments if they are found guilty of either type of crime multiple times over their lifetime.
Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney
If you have been arrested for committing a burglary or robbery, you should hire an experienced criminal defense attorney. They can work on your side to ensure you have a fair conviction. Richard P. Davies provides criminal defense attorney services in Reno, Sparks, Lake Tahoe, and Northern Nevada. Contact Richard P. Davies Law Office today by phone at (775) 360-6894 or request a quote online.