Burglary, also known as breaking and entering, is typically defined as the unlawful entry into almost any structure (not just a home or business) with the intent to commit any crime inside - not just theft. No physical breaking and entering is required; the offender may simply trespass through an open door. Unlike robbery, which involves use of force or fear to obtain another person's property, there is usually no victim present during a burglary.

In order to charge someone with burglary of a habitation (home) or building, the prosecution must be able to prove that the person:

Illegally entered the property and committed a felony, theft, or assault;

Illegally entered the property with the intent to commit a felony, theft, or assault; or

Remained concealed on the property with the intent to commit a felony, theft, or assault

Depending on the crime intended to commit and whether the property was a building or a habitation, this type of Burglary can be punished anywhere from a State Jail Felony to a First Degree Felony.
Other types of Burglary are Burglary of Coin-Operated Machines and Burglary of a Vehicle. These offenses are Class A Misdemeanors and carry a punishment of up to a year in county jail and a fine of up to $4,000.
If you or a loved one has been charged with any type of Burglary, contact The Law Office of Shahin Zamir immediately at (713) 223-8900 for a free consultation.