Union County Burglary Lawyers

You were behind on rent, and the multi-million dollar company wouldn’t miss a few computers. Or maybe you slipped through an open window at a dentist’s office and took several bottles of oxytocin. Either way, both buildings had cameras, and you were caught on tape. The police arrive, recover the property, and now you are facing burglary charges that could carry years in state prison. At that point, you need immediate representation from a lawyer who handles burglary cases. Contact the skilled Union County criminal defense lawyers from The Mark Law Firm so we can help you fight your burglary charges today.

How Is Burglary Defined Under New Jersey Law?

Burglary in New Jersey is defined under N.J.S.A. 2C:18-2. You may be found guilty of burglary if it is proven beyond a reasonable doubt that you:

• Entered a structure, unless it was open to the public or you were licensed or privileged to enter (see N.J.S.A. 2C:18-2(a)(1)); or
• Remained in the structure knowing that you were not licensed or privileged to do so.

Burglary is an indictable offense in New Jersey. It is typically classified as a third-degree crime, though it can be elevated to a second-degree offense if, during the commission of the crime, you:

• Purposely, knowingly, or recklessly inflicted, attempted to inflict, or threatened to inflict bodily injury on another person; or
• Were armed with, or displayed what appeared to be, explosives or a deadly weapon.

A conviction for second-degree burglary can result in a prison sentence of 5 to 10 years. A third-degree burglary conviction may carry a sentence of 3 to 5 years.

What Must the State Prove in a Burglary Case?

To secure a burglary conviction, the State must prove each of the following elements beyond a reasonable doubt:

• That you entered a structure that was not open to the public and did so without permission or legal authority;
• That you did so with the purpose of committing another criminal offense inside.
  • Structure: The defining feature of burglary is unlawful entry into a “structure.” This can include a home, commercial building, business complex, or even an abandoned property.
  • Unauthorized Entry: If you enter a structure without permission or remain there without authorization, you may meet this element of the offense.
• Intent to Commit a Crime: Burglary requires more than simple trespassing, which is a separate offense. The State must show that you intended to commit another crime inside the structure, such as theft, assault, or property damage.

Contact Our Union County Burglary Defense Lawyers

Don’t face the criminal justice system alone. Contact the burglary defense lawyers here at The Mark Law Firm for a free consultation today so we can discuss your case and begin building a comprehensive strategy on your behalf.