Burglary / Robbery

Burglary or robbery charges must be taken very seriously. In California, many types of convictions for burglary or robbery are considered strikes under California’s Three Strikes law. California theft crimes attorney John W. Thornton has 15 years of experience defending thousands of people in Santa Cruz County. In a free phone consultation, he can discuss your situation, and make a plan for either getting charges dropped or getting sentences reduced.

What is Burglary?

Technically, burglary can be charged when one enters a building with the intention to commit a felony therein. The felony need not be theft; it could be any felony.

• First degree burglary is going into a residence with the intention of committing a felony. A conviction of first-degree burglary is usually a strike.
• Second degree burglary is going to another type of building, such as a business, with the intention to commit a felony. This is sometimes known as commercial burglary. Entering a car can also qualify as second-degree burglary. Second degree burglary is usually not a strike.

What is Robbery?

Robbery is, quite simply, stealing something by using the threat of violence. Without a threat of violence, it is known as shoplifting, theft, larceny, or grand larceny, depending on the circumstances.

Armed robbery is any theft involving a handgun or other weapon, whether or not it was used. Armed robbery charges are often paired with firearm or assault with a deadly weapon charges.

Hire a Lawyer Before you Say Anything

It cannot be said often enough: No matter what you are charged with, you should usually not say anything to the police without a lawyer present. It is usually unwise to tell your side of the story or talk your way out of an arrest -- you will quite possibly end up getting yourself in even more trouble. Dealing with the police can be complex, and the guidance of an experienced lawyer is often very helpful.

Santa Cruz, California theft crimes attorney John W. Thornton provides skilled and knowledgeable defense to people charged in Santa Cruz County, including Santa Cruz, Aptos, Ben Lomond, Big Basin, Boulder Creek, Brookdale, Capitola, Corralitos, Davenport, Felton, Freedom, La Selva Beach, Las Lomas, Lompico, Los Gatos, Mount Hermon, Pajaro, Paradise Park, Rio del Mar, Royal Oaks, Scotts Valley, Seacliff, Seascape, Soquel and Watsonville.