Tampa Burglary Defense Attorney

I WORK HARD TO PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS.

Effective Defense from an AV Preeminent* Rated Former Prosecutor with more than 25 Years of Experience

Tampa Burglary Defense Attorney

I WORK HARD TO PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS.

Effective Defense from an AV Preeminent* Rated Former Prosecutor with more than 25 Years of Experience

THE MOST AGGRESSIVE AND EFFECTIVE BURGLARY DEFENSE LAWYER IN THE TAMPA AREA

If you or a loved one have been accused of burglary or another property crime in Tampa, FL, an experienced burglary defense lawyer can help you understand your rights.

Even non-violent property crimes can result in jail time or hefty fines. When you reach out to Mike G Law for help, we will work to protect your rights, judgment-free. We represent ALL people accused of burglary, theft and other property crimes—and we will stand with you, too.

TYPES OF PROPERTY CRIMES

Property crime is an umbrella term that includes offenses related to damaging, stealing, or entering another person’s personal property without permission. Personal property includes belongings and items (such as electronics, jewelry, etc.), vehicles (cars, bikes, etc.), as well as land and buildings (homes, farms, etc.).

Some common types of property crimes include:

  • Petit theft. Stealing money or goods typically worth less than $750. Also called petty theft or retail theft.
  • Grand theft. Stealing money or goods valued at over $750
  • Burglary. Entering another person’s car or home without permission in order to steal or commit another crime
  • Robbery. Using a threat of force in order to steal money or goods.
  • Trespassing. Entering another’s property without permission or staying after being asked to leave.
  • Criminal mischief. Includes vandalism, graffiti, and damaging someone else’s personal property.
  • Dealing in stolen property. Selling stolen property, including unauthorized copies of movies or TV, knock-off clothing, or goods that were stolen by someone else. Also called bootlegging.
  • Arson. Willfully setting fire or causing an explosion to a property, even if it is abandoned or not inhabited.

FINES, SENTENCING & CONSEQUENCES FOR PROPERTY CRIMES IN TAMPA

 Consequences for property crimes are based on the value of what was stolen or damaged, as well as if any persons were injured or threatened during the act. As outlined in Florida Statute § 775.082, penalties may involve community services, fines or even jail time. 

  • Misdemeanors involve jail sentences of less than 1 year and fines of up to $1,000.
  • Felonies involve jail sentences of more than 1 year (with a maximum of 30 years) and fines of up to to $20,000.

Individuals can also be charged for attempting to commit a crime, as well as for other crimes that may occur in the process. Each case is different. That is why it is important to have a defense attorney who pays attention to the specifics of your case and circumstances.

Here at Mike G Law, I will fight to ensure you’re given a fair trial after your arrest and won’t let the courts or prosecutors push you around. I will challenge everything about the case and use my experience and reputation to fight for the best possible outcome for your charges. 

PENALTIES FOR BURGLARY CHARGES IN FLORIDA

Burglary is a serious crime that involves unauthorized entry into a dwelling, structure, or conveyance with the intent to commit an offense within. If you have been accused, it is crucial that you have a clear understanding of these laws to safeguard your rights.

The penalties for burglary offenses in Florida can be severe. First-degree burglary is punishable by imprisonment for a term of years not exceeding life imprisonment. Second-degree burglary is a felony of the second degree, and third-degree burglary is a felony of the third degree, with each carrying their respective penalties as provided by Florida law. 

Florida Statute 810.02 outlines the different degrees and elements of burglary offenses in the state:

First Degree Burglary

Burglary is a felony of the first degree if, during the offense, the offender: 

  • Commits an assault or battery upon any person, or 
  • Is or becomes armed with explosives or a dangerous weapon within the dwelling, structure, or conveyance, or 
  • Enters an occupied or unoccupied dwelling or structure and causes damage to the property or uses a motor vehicle as an instrumentality, resulting in damage to the dwelling or structure, or 
  • Causes damage to the dwelling or structure or property within the dwelling or structure exceeding $1,000. 

Second Degree Burglary

Burglary is a felony of the second degree if, during the offense, the offender does not commit an assault or battery, is not armed with a dangerous weapon or explosive, and enters or remains in a dwelling, structure, conveyance that may or may not contain other people with the intent to commit theft of a controlled substance.

Third Degree Burglary

Burglary is a felony of the third degree if, during the offense, the offender does not commit an assault or battery, is not armed with a dangerous weapon or explosive, and enters or remains in a structure or conveyance without authorization. 

WHY YOU NEED AN EXPERIENCED BURGLARY DEFENSE LAWYER ON YOUR SIDE

If you or a loved one in your family is facing a criminal charge for a misdemeanor or felony property crime or theft in Hillsborough County or elsewhere in the Tampa Bay area, call us here at Mike G Law.

As a former prosecutor, I know how the state attorney’s office prepares and prosecutes property cases. I also know that police often overstep their boundaries regarding illegal search and seizure to collect evidence of stolen property. 

Assistant state attorneys (prosecutors) frequently pursue maximum criminal charges and sentences when aggressively prosecuting these types of cases. It is not uncommon for individuals to face time in jail or prison for misunderstandings about property ownership when treatment options would be a more appropriate resolution to the charges.

A good defense lawyer can advocate on your behalf and stand up for your rights in court. At Mike G Law, our team will not let your case go by the wayside.

Mental Health & Substance Abuse

Many cases of theft and property crime are related to substance abuse and mental health disorders. If you have been arrested for a property crime and are struggling with mental health, you may have more options than the prosecutors would lead you to believe. Florida residents may pursue mental health court for appropriate treatment instead of jail time. The team here at Mike G Law can help you navigate this process.

SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CONSULTATION TODAY

If you are facing burglary charges in Florida, it is crucial to seek legal representation from an experienced burglary defense lawyer. We will carefully examine the details of your case, challenge the evidence presented by the prosecution, and craft a strong defense strategy tailored to your circumstances. As your attorney, I will work tirelessly to protect your rights, challenge the elements of the offense, and strive for the best possible outcome. 

Are your charges related to drug or alcohol abuse or mental health? I will work with the prosecutor to find a program to get you the help you need while avoiding a conviction on your record, upon successful completion.

Call my office at 813-221-4303 or click here to contact me to arrange a free case evaluation today.

Let Mike G Help Protect Your Rights

The decisions you make after you have been arrested can determine the outcome of your case — and possibly your life. Call Mike G Law at 813-221-4303, or contact me online.

Contact Mike G Now

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I would do more than 5 stars if it was available. Mr. Gonzalez was outstanding. Told everything how it was, very responsive to call and email. Fought very hard to get my husband the outcome he received. If We were to ever need a attorney in Florida again, We would use him as many times as We needed. We highly recommend to anyone looking for an awesome attorney to go with Mike G Law!!! He gets to the point!!!

Ashley F.

I cannot recommend Mr Gonzalez enough. He is extremely professional as is his entire firm. Mr Gonzalez has been very knowledgeable and forthcoming throughout the entire legal process. I highly recommend him and a definite five star!

Bonnie B.

Mike G. is a great attorney. Very professional, very punctual, easy to talk to. Thanks to him my case was dismissed charges dropped.

Eric G.

I was able to text or call Mike anytime I needed to. He worked with me, on a real level and communicated realistic expectations for my situation. Thanks again guys.

Nicole S.

I wish I could give Mr. González 10 stars out of 5. He is a stellar and highly competent criminal justice attorney. Mr. González has effectively given me a second chance at life thanks to his deep and professional knowledge of criminal law. I was facing a very serious crime that carried a considerable period of imprisonment. But thanks to his incredible talent, sheer strength of intelligence, and a strong heart to fight for an individual’s values, I can now rest easy knowing that I will not have to suffer through the penal system. If you ever have a problem with the criminal justice system, I highly recommend that you hire this remarkable gentleman to fight for you in your case. I owe you a tremendous debt for your services. He gave me back my life and I will always be grateful. Thank you Mr. Gonzalez!

Shaler B.

Mike took care of my legal and civil case and was very helpful and Professional. He was responsive to all my questions and gave me updates as I asked for them. He helped get me in a position to see my son again which I am extremely grateful for. Thank you and God bless!

William W.