Burglary is a serious crime under Illinois law, and the consequences of a conviction can be devastating. You could end up spending time in prison and paying hefty fines—and you’ll have a criminal record following you for the rest of your life. Most people who are accused of this type of theft find that it’s in their best interests to get in touch with a skilled, experienced Chicago burglary defense attorney as soon as possible.
What is Burglary Under Illinois Law?
Burglary falls under 720 ILCS 5/19-1, which says, “A person commits burglary when without authority he or she knowingly enters or without authority remains within a building, housetrailer, watercraft, aircraft, motor vehicle, railroad car, or any part thereof, with intent to commit therein a felony or theft.”
Burglary is a felony in Chicago and in every other city in Illinois, and because it’s considered a Class 2 felony, it’s punishable by 3 to 7 years in prison.
One example of burglary is breaking into a vehicle intending to steal something of value that’s inside it (burglary isn’t the same thing as car theft; that’s an entirely separate crime). For example, if you break into a car to take an iPad, a GPS system or a satellite radio system, the state could charge you with burglary.
What is Residential Burglary in Illinois?
Residential burglary is more serious under Illinois law. Because residential burglary is more of an invasion of a person’s privacy than other types of burglary are, the punishment is more severe. This type of burglary falls under 720 ILCS 5/19.3, which says, “A person commits residential burglary when he or she knowingly and without authority enters or knowingly and without authority remains within the dwelling place of another, or any part thereof, with the intent to commit therein a felony or theft.”
Residential burglary is a Class 1 felony that’s punishable by 4 to 15 years in prison.
Possession of Burglary Tools in Illinois
Even the possession of burglary tools is a crime under Illinois law. It’s a Class 4 felony, and many people who are charged with burglary also face this charge, as well.
What to Do if You’re Accused of Burglary
You have the right to have an attorney to guide you through the complex legal process that burglary charges can bring—and it’s essential that you have the right burglary defense lawyer on your side.
You need someone who’s tough and who understands the law… and who’s willing to stand up for your rights and fight on your behalf.
You deserve Attorney Matt Fakhoury, a former Cook County Prosecutor who defends people accused of burglary in Chicago, Skokie, Rolling Meadows and Schaumburg.
Talk to a Chicago Burglary Defense Lawyer Now
Call us right now at 847-920-4540 for your free burglary case review. The sooner you call us, the sooner we can begin working on your defense so you get the best possible outcome.
