Clarksville Burglary Lawyer

Aggressive Defense Against Burglary Charges in Tennessee  

When facing burglary charges in Clarksville, you need a legal team committed to protecting your rights and crafting a strategic defense tailored to your case. At Jeff Grimes & Associates, we specialize in criminal defense, and our experienced attorneys are well-versed in navigating the complexities of burglary cases. With a proven track record of success, our firm is dedicated to providing you with the strong legal representation you deserve. 

Call Jeff Grimes & Associates today at (931) 398-5308 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our burglary attorney in Clarksville!

What is Burglary?

Burglary is a severe criminal offense involving unlawfully entering a building to commit a crime inside. The crime itself may vary, ranging from theft to assault, but the essential element of burglary is the illegal entry with criminal intent. In Tennessee, burglary is categorized into three degrees based on the circumstances surrounding the offense.

• First-Degree Burglary: Involves entering a habitation with the intent to commit a felony, causing injury, or using or threatening to use a deadly weapon. This is considered a Class D felony.
• Second-Degree Burglary: This occurs when someone unlawfully enters a building not classified as a habitation intending to commit a felony or theft. Second-degree burglary is a Class C felony.
• Third-Degree Burglary: This offense involves unlawfully entering a building intending to commit a felony or theft. It is considered a Class D felony.

Understanding the specific degree of burglary you are charged with is crucial, as it directly impacts the potential penalties you may face.

What are the Penalties for Burglary in Tennessee?

The consequences of a burglary conviction in Tennessee can be severe, with penalties ranging from fines to lengthy prison sentences. The severity of the punishment is influenced by factors such as the degree of burglary, any aggravating circumstances, and the defendant's criminal history.

• First-Degree Burglary: A Class D felony, punishable by imprisonment for 2 to 12 years and fines up to $5,000.
• Second-Degree Burglary: Classified as a Class C felony, the penalties include imprisonment for 3 to 15 years and fines up to $10,000.
• Third-Degree Burglary: Also a Class D felony, individuals convicted of third-degree burglary may face imprisonment for 2 to 12 years and fines up to $5,000.

Beyond the legal consequences outlined above, a burglary conviction can cast enduring effects on both your personal and professional spheres. A criminal record can potentially hinder job prospects, complicate housing applications, and tarnish your standing within the community.

Defenses Against Burglary Charges

Navigating a burglary charge requires a strategic and comprehensive defense. At Jeff Grimes & Associates, our skilled attorneys employ a variety of defenses tailored to the unique circumstances of each case:

• Lack of Intent: Arguing that no criminal intent at entry can be a strong defense. If it can be demonstrated that you did not enter the building intending to commit a crime, the charges may be challenged.
• Mistaken Identity: Sometimes, mistaken identity can play a significant role. Our team will thoroughly investigate the evidence and challenge the prosecution's case if there are doubts about the accuracy of witness identifications.
• Illegal Search and Seizure: If law enforcement conducted an illegal search or seizure, evidence obtained through these means may be deemed inadmissible in court. This can significantly weaken the prosecution's case.
• Insufficient Evidence: Challenging the sufficiency of the evidence against you is a fundamental defense strategy. Our attorneys will meticulously review all evidence to identify weaknesses and gaps in the prosecution's case.

Contact Our Clarksville Burglary Attorney Today 

Facing burglary charges is a serious matter that requires prompt and effective legal representation. Jeff Grimes & Associates is committed to defending your rights and providing the strategic advocacy you need during this challenging time. With a proven record of success in criminal defense, our experienced attorneys are ready to fight for you. Contact us today and take the first step toward building a solid defense against burglary charges in Tennessee.

Contact Jeff Grimes & Associates today to meet with our burglary lawyer in Clarksville!