Wheeling Burglary Lawyer

Burglary Attorney In Wheeling, WV

If you or a loved one is facing charges of burglary in Wheeling, West Virginia, you need to quickly seek legal counsel. These charges are serious, and the resulting penalties can severely impact your future and liberties. Whether you’ve been accused of burglarizing a home in Pleasant Valley or a business in South Wheeling, along the river, you need to hire a Wheeling, WV, burglary lawyer to protect your rights.

Why You Need to Work With Meadows Law PLLC

At Meadows Law PLLC, we have spent years advocating for the rights of people who find themselves facing a wide range of criminal charges. As a former United States Marine, our lead attorney is not afraid of a fight when protecting those who place their trust in him. Our team is experienced at handling cases in the Ohio County Circuit Court and the Ohio County Magistrate Court, where your case will likely be held, and we can use that to your advantage.

What Counts as Burglary in Wheeling, West Virginia?

West Virginia sees an overall burglary rate of 1.765 cases per 1,000 residents. Under state law, burglary refers to any kind of illegal or unlawful entry into a building or structure, with the knowing intent to commit a crime when inside the property, such as theft, vandalism, or assault. Burglary does not require that any property be actually damaged or stolen; rather, it is the intent behind the crime that defines the offense.

Three main kinds of burglary offenses are recognized in West Virginia. These include:

• First-degree burglary. In West Virginia, this is the most serious form of burglary. It happens when an individual illegally enters a building with the direct intent of committing a felony once inside, such as assault or theft. It can also include any type of burglary involving a deadly weapon or that causes physical injury to anyone inside the property. A conviction can see you facing 10 to 40 years in prison.
• Second-degree burglary. This involves the unlawful entry of a building with the express intent to commit a misdemeanor crime or any other offense besides a felony. This charge carries a prison sentence of anywhere between one and 15 years.
• Third-degree burglary. The last form of burglary recognized in West Virginia involves the entering of a property, such as a vehicle, with the intent of committing a crime while inside. A conviction of this nature can see you sentenced to prison time lasting anywhere from one to five years.

Defending You Against Burglary Charges

Facing burglary charges in Wheeling, West Virginia is a serious ordeal, and you need a serious lawyer who can build and compellingly present your defense. When you hire Meadows Law PLLC, we know the defense strategies that work and how to correctly implement them. Depending on the details of your case, these strategies can include:

• Lack of intent. To be convicted of burglary, the prosecution must prove that you intended to commit the crime when you entered the building or structure. If you did not actually intend to commit any crime, then burglary charges might not apply to your case in any valid manner.
• False accusations. Sometimes, you might actually be the victim of a mistaken identity or false accusation. If someone else is responsible for the crime, the team at Meadows Law PLLC can work to uncover the truth of the matter. We can do so by using surveillance footage, collecting witness statements, and finding other evidence of an alibi.
• Lack of evidence. To prove that you are the offender in a burglary case, the prosecution must present evidence proving that you illegally entered a building with the direct intent to commit a crime. If there is unreliable or insufficient evidence, this can weaken the case against you.

FAQs

What Are the Penalties for Burglary in West Virginia?

If you are convicted of burglary in West Virginia, you could face several types of burglary penalties. These can include years to decades spent in prison, along with fines and the loss of certain civil rights, including the right to vote and possess or purchase a firearm. You will also likely face personal consequences, such as difficulty in finding housing or employment. In fact, convicted individuals face a 30% unemployment rate.

Why Should I Hire an Attorney in WV?

When you are arrested or even just investigated for a burglary in West Virginia, you need to hire an attorney. At Meadows Law PLLC, we can offer you the personalized attention you deserve. Our firm has successfully defended clients in your exact position for years. We also have extensive experience with burglary cases, so we can provide you with the aggressive defense necessary to fight a conviction.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Burglary Lawyer?

How much it might cost to hire a burglary lawyer in West Virginia can vary from firm to firm. Many factors affect these cases, which can influence the final cost analysis of your Wheeling burglary attorney. These include the complexity and duration of the case, along with the skill level of your lawyer.

What Should I Do When Arrested for Burglary?

When you are arrested for burglary, stay silent and do not volunteer information to the police. They and the prosecutors assigned to your case can use your statements against you in court. You have the right to an attorney, so contact one as soon as you can. They can interact with the police and prosecutors on your behalf. They can also investigate your incident to build a defense for your case.

Hire a Burglary Lawyer Today

If you or someone you love has been accused of burglary in Wheeling, you need to hire a burglary lawyer right away. At Meadows Law PLLC, we can defend individuals against a wide range of violent crimes and property offenses, including burglary. Contact our offices today to learn more about our legal services by scheduling your initial consultation with our team.