Burglary

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The following is not legal advice but is for information only. Legal advice is when an attorney applies the law to a person's individual circumstances and advises them on their legal options or potential exposure to legal harm, which a web page clearly does not.

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Behavior that is charged as burglary is not just what people think of as the intruder intent on stealing while dressed in black and quietly tip-toeing through an empty house. As is usual, prosecutors will find ways of turning otherwise less serious accusations into a more serious charge and burglary is one such offense they will use.

 

In Maine, burglary is defined as the intentional and unauthorized entry into (or secretly remaining in) a building or structure with the intent to commit a crime. The crime does not have to be committed for the individual to be charged with burglary, only the intent to commit a crime upon entering the building or structure needs to be proved.

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Burglary is considered a felony offense in Maine, and the severity of the charge will depend on the circumstances of the case. For example, if the individual was armed with a dangerous weapon during the burglary, the potential punishment (which is determined by the class of offense) will be more severe.

 

The potential consequences of a burglary conviction in Maine include imprisonment for up to ten years, fines, restitution, and a permanent criminal record. A burglary conviction can also have long-term consequences, such as difficulty finding employment or housing, or to own a firearm.

 

If you have been charged with burglary in Maine, get a lawyer immediately to protect your rights and defend against the charges. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you understand your options and build a strong defense strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.

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