If you have been charged with the felony crime of burglary, you are likely well aware of how serious this charge can be. In Missouri, burglary is a Class B or C felony, depending on certain facts of the case such as whether or not the defendant had a weapon and whether or not the defendant caused any physical harm. Surprisingly, a burglary charge can be increased to a Class B felony if there is someone else in the home or building at the time of the entry, even if the defendant is not aware of it.
If you’re facing a burglary charge, there are likely one if not multiple reasons why the state has decided to charge you with burglary rather than the less severe charge of criminal trespassing. At trial, the state must prove that a person not only entered into a building without permission, but that they did so with the intent to commit a crime while inside. However, prosecutors often will bring burglary charges on a defendant when the crime is nothing more than trespassing.
Regardless of the circumstances surrounding your burglary arrest, it is imperative that you contact an experienced defense attorney who can analyze your case and determine if any plea bargain options exist, or if your case is suitable for an outright dismissal. The Lindley Law Office has handled countless burglary charges and will fight aggressively for your rights in court.