Burglary allegations in Lakewood, Colorado and throughout Jefferson County can end in impactful consequences. This crime of knowingly entering or unlawfully remaining somewhere with criminal intent is always a felony and can negatively affect a defendant for years to come. Prison time, fines, and a damaging criminal record are just some of the hurdles a burglary conviction can present in Lakewood, Arvada, or Golden. If you or someone you know has been accused of burglary in Jefferson County, proceed carefully and contact a determined defense attorney right away.

3 Degrees of Burglary in Jefferson County

Depending on the specific facts of your burglary case, law enforcement will pursue the following charges:

• Third-Degree Burglary - CRS 18-4-204
• Second-Degree Burglary - CRS 18-4-203
• First-Degree Burglary - CRS 18-4-202

The two most significant factors in a burglary case are the type of property that was involved and the extent of danger to those inside. Prosecutors will try to prove that a defendant:

• knowingly,
• entered or unlawfully remained on another's property,
• intending to commit a crime while at the location

Burglary may not apply in situations where a person commits a crime on property they're on lawfully, or if the intent to commit an offense is formed after entry.

How Serious is Burglary throughout Jefferson County?

Burglary has an especially wide sentencing range in Colorado. Besides the specific degree of burglary that applies to your case, the other crime you committed (or were intending to commit) and the use of violence, threats, or a deadly weapon can escalate ramifications quite a bit. A burglary conviction in Colorado can lead to:

• a jail sentence of 6 months up to 48 years in prison,
• fines of $1K - $1,000,000 

Breaking into a safe or locker is on the lower end of the spectrum, while entering or unlawfully remaining in a building or residence is more serious. Furthermore, if the target of a burglary was to obtain controlled substances, penalties amplify substantially.

Lakewood's Top Burglary Attorney

When it comes to strategic, persistent defense in a burglary case, Sawyer Legal Group is second to none. Our skilled criminal lawyers have decades of combined experience fighting burglary charges in Jefferson, Adams, and Arapahoe County and our reviews speak for themselves. Perhaps you were on the property lawfully, you didn't know you'd entered unlawfully, or there was no intent to commit a crime. Nevertheless, contact our office today for a free, confidential consultation with Lakewood's top burglary attorney. We offer same-day jail visits for those in custody, affordable fees, and flexible payment plans for people facing criminal allegations in Colorado.

Don't talk to the police about burglary charges - talk to us. 303-830-0880

Photo by Andrew Neel