An arrest for burglary and robbery can be a scary thing to come to terms with. Both are considered felony offenses and carry prison sentences. You could be spending up to 20 years in prison if convicted of this offense.  Regardless of the circumstances surrounding your case, it is important that you seek the legal advice of an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.

Robbery and Burglary Offense

Many people are confused about the different between these two offenses. Let us simplify it:

Burglary – burglary involves breaking into someone’s home or commercial area, including a vehicle, and taking something that is not theirs. Burglary is also called breaking and entering. Burglary offenses occur when no one is home or when there is no threat of violence involved.

Robbery – on the other hand, robbery does involve a threat or force to another individual. Robbery involves breaking into someone’s home or commercial area when they are at the scene. In most instances, a robber will carry a weapon on him and threaten to use the weapon if the victims do not do as he says.

An example of the difference between the two is as follows: If you steal a piece of jewelry from the neighbor’s home while they are away on vacation, then you could be accused of burglary. However, if you steal this piece of jewelry while they are home and you threaten them with a gun, then you will be accused of robbery. If you harm the victims while committing the crime you could also be faced with an assault conviction as well. If you accidently kill the victim while attempting a robbery, then you may also be faced with manslaughter or a murder accusation.

Our first handles all burglary and robbery arrests including the following:

• First degree burglary, second degree burglary, third degree burglary, fourth degree burglary
• First degree robbery, second degree robbery
• Simple robbery
• Highway robbery
• Carjacking
• Mugging

Robbery and Burglary Conviction

If you are convicted of burglary and robbery, you can expect heavy fines and a long prison sentence. First degree robbery comes with a prison sentence of up to 20 years and a fine of up to $35,000. . Second degree robbery comes with 15 years or to payment of a fine of up to $30,000. Simple robbery comes with a sentence of up to ten years or to payment of a fine of up to $20,000, or both. A second degree burglary charges comes with a 10 year prison sentence and/or a $20,000 fine. For third and fourth degree burglary, you may face up to 5 years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine

A burglary and robbery conviction will remain with you for the rest of your life negatively impacting your ability to find decent work and accommodation. Most employers and landlords perform a criminal background check on all applicants and will be hesitant to accept someone with these serious felony convictions.

Representation throughout Minnesota

Do not risk your future by accepting a burglary or robbery sentence. There are ways to fight back against these serious allegations.  Rivers & Associates, PA are there when you need us most. It is important to act fast when facing an arrest and criminal conviction. Our experienced attorneys can provide you with the aggressive representation and legal assistance you need to ensure the best outcome possible. Contact us today at (612) 339-3939.

Our Minneapolis criminal defense lawyers represent clients throughout Minnesota, including the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, Duluth, Rochester, Mankato, St. Cloud, Moorhead, Apple Valley, Blaine, Bloomington, Brooklyn Park, Burnsville, Coon Rapids, Eagan, Eden Prairie, Edina, Lakeville, Maple Grove, Maplewood, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Richfield, Roseville and Woodbury.