Being charged with burglary in California is a serious matter that can lead to severe penalties, including jail or prison time, significant fines, and a lasting criminal record. At the Law Offices of Maxwell J. Wright, we understand the stress and uncertainty that comes with these allegations, and we’re here to provide aggressive, strategic defense tailored to your unique situation.

Know What You’re Up Against

California Penal Code § 459 defines burglary as entering a structure with the intent to commit theft or a felony. It doesn’t matter if nothing was stolen — the intent alone can get you charged. Under California law, there are two degrees of burglary:

  • First-degree burglary – residential burglary, always a felony and considered a “strike” under California’s Three Strikes law.
  • Second-degree burglary – typically commercial burglary, which may be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances.

Common Burglary-Related Charges We Defend Against:

  • Residential (first-degree) burglary
  • Commercial (second-degree) burglary
  • Auto burglary
  • Possession of burglary tools
  • Attempted burglary

Possibility of Serious Penalties:

Burglary charges carry serious and potentially devastating consequences. Convictions can result in:

  • First-degree burglary: up to 6 years in state prison
  • Second-degree burglary: up to 3 years in county jail
  • Probation
  • Hefty fines
  • Restitution
  • A permanent criminal record that can destroy your career and your reputation

Defending Against a Burglary Charge—How We Can Help:

At the Law Offices of Maxwell J. Wright, we don’t tiptoe around criminal accusations. We go on the offensive.  We thoroughly investigate the charges, examine and attack the prosecution’s evidence, expose sloppy police work, and explore every legal option to challenge the case against you. We explore all possible defenses, including:

  • Lack of intent
  • Mistaken identity
  • Permission to enter
  • Lack of entry
  • Forced into the situation by someone else (coercion or entrapment) 
  • Illegal search and seizure
  • Other problems with the law enforcement investigation
  • Insufficient evidence

If you’re being investigated or have already been charged, we’ll step in immediately to protect your rights and craft a defense specifically tailored to your case. Whether you’re facing your first charge or you have prior convictions, we are committed to protecting your rights and your future.

Get a Skilled Burglary Defense Lawyer on Your Side

This isn’t the time to take chances with your future. The sooner you contact us, the better your chances of securing a favorable outcome. Contact the Law Offices of Maxwell J. Wright today for a free and confidential consultation.

We don’t back down — and neither should you.

Burglary

Being charged with burglary in California is a serious matter that can lead to severe penalties, including jail or prison time, significant fines, and a lasting criminal record. At the Law Offices of Maxwell J. Wright, we understand the stress and uncertainty that comes with these allegations, and we’re here to provide aggressive, strategic defense tailored to your unique situation.

Know What You’re Up Against

California Penal Code § 459 defines burglary as entering a structure with the intent to commit theft or a felony. It doesn’t matter if nothing was stolen — the intent alone can get you charged. Under California law, there are two degrees of burglary:

  • First-degree burglary – residential burglary, always a felony and considered a “strike” under California’s Three Strikes law.
  • Second-degree burglary – typically commercial burglary, which may be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances.

Common Burglary-Related Charges We Defend Against:

  • Residential (first-degree) burglary
  • Commercial (second-degree) burglary
  • Auto burglary
  • Possession of burglary tools
  • Attempted burglary

Possibility of Serious Penalties:

Burglary charges carry serious and potentially devastating consequences. Convictions can result in:

  • First-degree burglary: up to 6 years in state prison
  • Second-degree burglary: up to 3 years in county jail
  • Probation
  • Hefty fines
  • Restitution
  • A permanent criminal record that can destroy your career and your reputation

Defending Against a Burglary Charge—How We Can Help:

At the Law Offices of Maxwell J. Wright, we don’t tiptoe around criminal accusations. We go on the offensive.  We thoroughly investigate the charges, examine and attack the prosecution’s evidence, expose sloppy police work, and explore every legal option to challenge the case against you. We explore all possible defenses, including:

  • Lack of intent
  • Mistaken identity
  • Permission to enter
  • Lack of entry
  • Forced into the situation by someone else (coercion or entrapment) 
  • Illegal search and seizure
  • Other problems with the law enforcement investigation
  • Insufficient evidence

If you’re being investigated or have already been charged, we’ll step in immediately to protect your rights and craft a defense specifically tailored to your case. Whether you’re facing your first charge or you have prior convictions, we are committed to protecting your rights and your future.

Get a Skilled Burglary Defense Lawyer on Your Side

This isn’t the time to take chances with your future. The sooner you contact us, the better your chances of securing a favorable outcome. Contact the Law Offices of Maxwell J. Wright today for a free and confidential consultation.

We don’t back down — and neither should you.