A knock at the door. Flashing lights. The unsettling reality of being accused of burglary can upend your life instantly. Whether you were in the wrong place at the wrong time, misunderstood the circumstances, or made a regrettable mistake, you’re potentially looking at years behind bars in Texas, hefty fines, and a permanent record that limits future opportunities. But you are not defined by this moment—you have the right to defend yourself.
Every case deserves a strong defense, and we are here to ensure that your side of the story is heard. At The Carmichael Law Firm PC, our Dallas burglary lawyer will fight aggressively to protect your freedom, challenge the prosecution’s case, and guide you toward the best possible outcome.
Understanding Burglary Charges in Texas
Under Texas law, burglary occurs when a person enters a building (or habitation) without the owner’s consent and with intent to commit a felony, theft, or assault inside. The law recognizes burglary in three main ways:
- Unlawful entry. Entering a home, business, or building without permission, intending to commit a crime.
- Concealment. Remaining inside a structure unlawfully, with the intent to commit an offense.
- Attempted crime. Entering a building unlawfully and attempting but failing to commit theft, assault, or another felony.
Burglary differs from criminal trespassing because trespassing only involves unauthorized entry, while burglary requires intent to commit an additional crime.
Types of Burglary Charges in Texas
Burglary charges vary based on the location and intent behind the alleged crime. Some of the most common charges include:
- Burglary of a building. Typically charged as a state jail felony, punishable by 6 months to 2 years in a state jail and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Burglary of a habitation. A second-degree felony that normally carries 2 to 20 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines. If the burglary involved an attempt to commit a felony other than theft, it becomes a first-degree felony, punishable by 5 to 99 years in jail.
- Burglary of a vehicle. This is usually a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in jail and fines up to $4,000, but repeat offenses may escalate to felony charges. The charge involves breaking into a vehicle or rail car with the intent to steal.
- Burglary with assault or intent to harm. If the alleged burglary involved an intent to commit assault, robbery, or another violent crime, the penalties can be significantly more severe.
A burglary conviction can affect every aspect of your life, making finding housing, employment, or obtaining professional licenses harder. That’s why having the right Dallas burglary defense lawyer is critical.
How a Strong Defense Can Fight Burglary Charges
Our knowledgeable criminal defense firm will examine every detail of your case to build a compelling defense and secure the best outcome. Some common defense strategies include:
- Lack of evidence. The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed burglary. If the case relies on weak evidence, such as unreliable witness testimony or circumstantial claims, our Dallas burglary lawyer will challenge its validity.
- Alibi defense. Alibi evidence, such as surveillance footage, witness statements, and electronic records, can prove that you were not present at the scene of the alleged crime and could not have committed the burglary.
- No criminal intent. Burglary charges require proof that you intended to commit a crime upon entry. If you entered a building by mistake, had no criminal intent, or sought shelter, the prosecution’s case weakens significantly.
- Coerced confession or unlawful arrest. If law enforcement obtained a confession through coercion, threats, or failure to read your rights, we can argue to have that evidence excluded from your case.
- Ownership or rightful access. If you had legal access to the building, whether as a tenant, employee, or someone with permission, this fact can challenge the prosecution’s claim of unlawful entry, a key element in burglary cases.
The best defense strategy will depend on the specific details of your case, as every legal situation is different. Our firm diligently explores every legal avenue to safeguard your rights and future.
What to Expect When Working with a Dallas Burglary Attorney
Understanding what lies ahead can ease uncertainty and help you feel more prepared. Here’s what to expect when you work with our experienced Dallas burglary attorney:
- Case review & strategy development. We begin with a confidential consultation to evaluate your case, discuss defenses, and outline a plan. This is your opportunity to understand your options and take the first step toward a strong defense.
- Investigation and evidence gathering. Our team reviews police reports, surveillance footage, witness statements, and forensic evidence to uncover inconsistencies and weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Negotiation and court representation. We negotiate aggressively with prosecutors for charge reductions or dismissals. When negotiation isn’t enough, our trial-tested experience kicks in; we’re always prepared to take your case before a jury.
- Personalized legal guidance. Throughout the legal process, we keep you informed, answer your questions, and provide clear, straightforward advice so you always know what to expect.
Our firm is built on a foundation of client-centered representation. We do more than defend you—we equip you with the strongest legal strategy at every stage of your case.
Contact The Carmichael Law Firm PC to Protect Your Rights with a Strong Defense
A burglary charge can change your life—but a strong defense can change the outcome. The prosecution is already working against you; you should not have to face these charges alone. Facing criminal charges in Dallas demands a defense team that knows and lives the law. We’ve built our reputation on proven defense strategies, securing favorable outcomes for countless clients facing serious allegations.
Whether negotiating for a case dismissal or fighting for you in court, The Carmichael Law Firm PC is ready to fight for your rights. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation or to schedule a case review.
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