BURGLARY & ROBBERY ATTORNEY IN PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA

Both burglary and robbery are felonies of varying degrees in Pennsylvania. As result, each carries very heavy penalties upon conviction including lengthy jail sentences often exceeding ten (10) years as well as high fines.

Under Pennsylvania law, burglary constitutes the entry of a building or other “occupied” structure, or separately secured portion thereof, with the intent to commit a crime, unless the premises are at the time open to the public or the actor is licensed or privileged to enter. A primary issue regarding the penalty for a burglary conviction is whether the building is occupied at the time of the alleged offense.

To be found guilty of robbery, the Commonwealth must prove that a defendant, in the course of committing a theft, threatens another with, or intentionally puts her in fear of, immediate bodily injury or physically takes or removes property from the person of another by force, no matter how slight. This includes any mugging or pickpocketing, regardless of whether the victim suffers any physical injury.

Burglary and robbery charges often have various additional charges included with them, such as conspiracy, attempt, receiving stolen property and trespassing, to name a few. In any robbery or burglary case, effective legal representation can mean the difference between going to prison and going home. Call AAAL today if you or a friend or loved one is facing these charges to set up a free phone consultation or an in jail visit.