Burglary & Trespass Offenses

What penalties could I face following a burglary or criminal trespass conviction in Ohio?

If you stand accused of burglary or trespassing, contact burglary and trespass offenses attorney Matthew C. Bangerter as soon as possible. Burglary and trespassing are serious criminal charges that can lead to severe penalties in Ohio.

For instance:

• Breaking and entering with the purpose of theft is a 5th degree felony that can lead up to a year in prison and fines up to $2,500.
• Trespassing in an occupied building with criminal intentions may count as a second-degree felony, with penalties of up to eight years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000.
• Aggravated burglary (burglary that involves assault or carrying a deadly weapon) may lead to first-degree felony charges, up to 11 years in jail, and a fine of up to $20,000.

What is the difference between burglary and trespassing in Ohio?

Trespassing is unlawfully entering another person’s property, even if you had no criminal intent. Burglary, typically a more serious charge, is trespassing with the purpose of committing another crime, like theft.

Ohio also recognizes breaking and entering, which the state’s criminal law defines as entering non-residential, unoccupied premises (like an abandoned storeroom or warehouse) with a felony or theft intent.

What strategies can a burglary lawyer use to defend me against burglary or trespassing charges?

Depending on your case, your burglary and trespass offenses attorney may:

• Challenge the prosecution’s assertion of your criminal intent—that is, deny that you meant to commit a felony like theft or assault
• File a Motion to Suppress to eliminate illegally obtained evidence (like the results of an unlawful search) from your trial
• Show that you didn’t know your actions count as trespassing – for example, a No Trespassing sign may not have been clearly visible
• Your attorney may represent you at trial or negotiate a plea bargain in exchange for reduced charges and/or penalties.

Can an Ohio criminal defense attorney influence the outcome of my case?

Absolutely, yes. Working with an experienced burglary and criminal trespass attorney can determine the outcome of your criminal trial, and possibly your entire future.

Criminal attorney Matthew C. Bangerter at Fortress Law Group in Willoughby, OH, has a stellar track record of defending clients against burglary or trespassing charges. As a former prosecutor, Bangerter knows how burglary and trespassing trials work and what legal strategy would be optimal for your case.

To schedule a case review with an experienced burglary and trespass offenses attorney in Cleveland Metro, call (440) 340-1740.