Do You Need a Criminal Defense Attorney for a Burglary or Robbery Charge?
Contact us. We can help. William C. Makler is an experienced Santa Barbara burglary and robbery lawyer and takes the chargers very seriously. In California, many burglary and robbery matters are considered strikes under California’s Three Strikes Law. Santa Barbara criminal defense attorney William C. Makler has over 33 years of criminal justice experience. He has successfully defended scores of burglary cases and has had many burglary priors stricken. Take advantage of a free consultation with a very experienced Santa Barbara lawyer right away. Much is at stake.
What is Burglary?
Technically, burglary can be charged when one enters a building (or even a vehicle) with the intention to commit a felony therein. The felony does not necessarily need to be theft – it could be any felony. First degree burglary is going into a residence with the intention of committing a felony. A conviction of first-degree burglary is usually a strike on your record. Second degree burglary is going to another type of building, such as a business, with the intention to commit a felony. This is sometimes known as commercial burglary. Entering a car can also qualify as second-degree burglary. Conviction of a second degree burglary does not usually result in a strike.
What is Robbery?
Robbery is, quite simply, stealing something by using the threat of violence. Without a threat of violence, it is known as shoplifting, theft, larceny, or grand larceny, depending on the circumstances. Armed robbery is any theft involving a handgun or other weapon, whether or not it was used. Armed robbery charges are often paired with firearm or assault with a deadly weapon charges.
A related charge is “assault with force likely to cause great bodily injury,” both charges are covered under California Penal Code 245, the statute having to do with assault with a deadly weapon or an assault likely to cause great bodily injury. Not all ADW’s are strikes.
Call Santa Barbara burglary and robbery lawyer, William C. Makler now at (805) 892-4922 for a free, no obligation, consultation. Or, if you prefer it, message us and we will get back to you as soon as possible and frequently within a few minutes. Our offices are conveniently located near the Superior Court building.
