This is the final post in a series of articles discussing defending against burglary charges in Peoria, Illinois. My previous post focused on what to expect should a burglary case proceed to trial. Given the potentially significant criminal penalties associated with a burglary conviction, it is essential to retain an experienced defense attorney to defend your rights. The goal of this series has been to provide information about potential strategies for defending against burglary charges. If you have been charged with burglary, contact my office to speak with a lawyer.
This series has focused on the following topics:
- Understanding burglary charges in Illinois
- Penalties for an Illinois burglary conviction
- Defending against other charges associated with burglary
- Search and seizure issues in burglary cases
- What to expect during a burglary trial
I felt it was important to discuss these issues for several reasons. First, the legal definition of burglary often comes as a surprise to those charged with the crime. It is important to understand that one can be charged with burglary for simply entering a building or dwelling without permission with the intent to commit another crime. This is true even if no additional crime was ultimately committed. Second, burglary is a serious offense that is typically punished as a felony in Illinois. Those convicted face serious criminal penalties, including significant periods of incarceration, fines, and other long-term restrictions of rights. Third, burglary is often accompanied by underlying charges for criminal activity alleged to have been committed by the accused. A conviction for the associated charges will carry additional criminal penalties. Furthermore, successfully defending against the related charges may lead to a dismissal of the burglary charge. It is imperative, therefore, to defend oneself against all associated allegations. Fourth, violations of a defendant’s Fourth Amendment rights may lead to the exclusion of the illegally seized evidence. Experienced defense counsel will understand how this potentially complex legal argument may apply to your case. Finally, criminal trials can seem intimidating. It is important to understand what to expect should your case proceed to a jury trial.
If you have been charged with burglary, contact an attorney as soon as possible. Contact my office to speak with a Peoria defense lawyer. I also serve clients in the cities of Bloomington, Eureka, Galesburg, Morton, Normal, Pekin, Springfield, and Washington. I also serve the counties of Fulton, Knox, LaSalle, Marshall, Mason, McLean, Putnam, Rock Island, Schuyler, Stark, Tazewell, and Woodford.