Burglary Charges in Skokie, Illinois

Burglary is a serious criminal offense in Illinois, with severe penalties that can have a lasting impact on your life. If you are facing burglary charges in Skokie, understanding the legal ramifications and the importance of a strong defense is crucial to protecting your future.

What Constitutes Burglary?

Under Illinois law, specifically 720 ILCS 5/19-1, burglary occurs when a person knowingly enters or remains in a building, vehicle, or other structure without the owner’s permission, with the intent to commit a theft or any other felony inside. Common examples of burglary include:

• Entering a home or apartment with the intent to steal valuables.
• Breaking into a business after hours to commit theft or vandalism.
• Entering a vehicle to steal items inside or to take the vehicle itself.

The intent to commit a crime upon entry is a key element of burglary charges. Even if no theft or other crime occurs, the act of entering with criminal intent can result in burglary charges.

Penalties for Burglary in Skokie

The penalties for burglary in Illinois are severe and depend on the specific circumstances of the case:

• Standard Burglary: Typically charged as a Class 2 felony, with potential penalties including 3 to 7 years in prison and fines up to $25,000. Probation may be possible in some cases, depending on the defendant’s criminal history and the circumstances of the offense.
• Residential Burglary: Burglary of a dwelling place, such as a home or apartment, is charged as a Class 1 felony, carrying a more severe penalty of 4 to 15 years in prison, with no possibility of probation in most cases.
• Aggravated Burglary: If the burglary involves the use of a weapon or the burglary occurs while others are present in the building, the charges can be elevated to aggravated burglary, leading to even harsher penalties.

In addition to prison time and fines, a burglary conviction will result in a permanent criminal record, which can affect your ability to find employment, secure housing, and more.

Defending Against Burglary Charges in Skokie

When facing burglary charges, a strong defense is critical to achieving the best possible outcome. Potential defense strategies include:

• Lack of intent: The prosecution must prove that you intended to commit a crime upon entering the building or vehicle. If intent cannot be established, the charges may be reduced or dismissed.
• Mistaken identity: If there is evidence that someone else committed the burglary, or if there is insufficient evidence linking you to the crime, this could lead to a dismissal of the charges.
• Violation of rights: If your rights were violated during the arrest or investigation, such as through an unlawful search or seizure, it may be possible to suppress key evidence, weakening the prosecution’s case.

Why Choose Andrew M. Weisberg as Your Skokie Burglary Defense Attorney?

Andrew M. Weisberg is a highly experienced criminal defense attorney with a deep understanding of Illinois burglary laws. His background as a former prosecutor gives him unique insights into the strategies used by the prosecution, allowing him to develop a strong and effective defense tailored to your case.

Contact Andrew M. Weisberg for a free consultation today at (847) 350-1266 to discuss your case. With his dedication to protecting your rights and fighting for the best possible outcome, Andrew is the attorney you need on your side.