Tulsa Burglary Defense Attorney
Understanding Burglary Charges in Tulsa
Burglary is a serious crime in Oklahoma, punishable by life-altering consequences. If you find yourself arrested on burglary charges in Tulsa, the first and most crucial course of action is to remain calm. Assert your right to remain silent and do not attempt to argue or negotiate with law enforcement officers on the spot. Instead, focus on remembering the details of the incident.
Without a doubt, you need an experienced burglary attorney in Tulsa to fight for you and your rights. At Enlow Law, our firm has a deep understanding of Tulsa's legal landscape, which can be instrumental in building a robust defense. Rest assured that, with the right legal counsel, you can navigate this challenging and complex situation effectively. Our attorneys can analyze the specifics of your case, create an aggressive defense strategy, negotiate on your behalf, and represent you in court. As your burglary lawyer in Tulsa, we work diligently to ensure your side of the story is presented clearly and powerfully. We understand the profound impact a burglary charge can have on your personal and professional life, which is why we are committed to defending your rights with utmost dedication.
If you are facing burglary charges in Tulsa, our team is here to help. Call us now at (918) 212-5359 or contact us online.
What Is Burglary in Oklahoma?
In Oklahoma, burglary is defined under Title 21, Section 1431 of the Oklahoma Statutes. It is generally categorized into two degrees: first-degree burglary and second-degree burglary. First-degree burglary occurs when a person unlawfully enters a dwelling (where someone lives) with the intent to commit a crime therein, and there are people present or the person has a dangerous weapon or explosives. Second-degree burglary pertains to all other instances of burglary, such as breaking into a car, a business outside of operating hours, or a dwelling when no one is present. Both degrees are considered felonies in Oklahoma, and the penalties can be severe, including imprisonment and substantial fines. Thus, a strong defense is essential for anyone charged with burglary in Oklahoma. Understanding the specific legal definitions and nuances of burglary can significantly influence the defense strategy. A skilled burglary attorney will scrutinize every element of the charge, assessing whether the prosecution can truly establish each component beyond a reasonable doubt.
Penalties for Burglary in Oklahoma
Being convicted of burglary in Tulsa can lead to severe penalties that vary depending on the degree of the crime committed. The consequences are more profound for repeat offenders and can dramatically affect your future.
- First-degree burglary: Conviction of a first-degree burglary, considered the most severe, generally leads to a prison sentence ranging from seven to twenty years. The presence of people in the dwelling or use of a dangerous weapon or explosives during the crime amplifies the severity of the sentence.
- Second-degree burglary: For second-degree burglary, where the crime involves unlawful entry into a car, business outside operating hours, or an unoccupied dwelling, the convicted individual may face a prison term of two to seven years, along with substantial fines.
- Third-degree burglary: Although not explicitly defined in Oklahoma statutes, third-degree burglary typically refers to less severe instances of burglary, like breaking into an unoccupied building. Even so, it's treated seriously, and a conviction can lead to a prison term of up to five years.
It's imperative to remember that in addition to these legal penalties, a burglary conviction can have life-lasting impacts, such as difficulty finding employment or housing due to a felony record. Therefore, a solid defense with experienced Tulsa burglary defense attorneys becomes crucial.