Burglary in Florida — What It Means, Penalties, and How to Defend Yourself

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Being charged with burglary in Florida doesn’t mean you’re guilty. With the right defense, you can fight back against harsh penalties and unfair accusations. Attorney Zeljka Bozanic brings the skill, experience, and courtroom strength needed to defend your rights.

Burglary in Florida — What It Means, Penalties, and How to Defend Yourself

A burglary charge in Florida is not just about breaking into a property—it’s a felony offense that could put your future at serious risk. Even if nothing was stolen, the mere act of unlawfully entering a space with intent to commit a crime can result in prison time, probation, and a permanent criminal record.

At Bozanic Law, we know that not every accusation reflects reality. Whether it was a misunderstanding, a false accusation, or you were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time, we’re here to protect your rights and fight for your freedom.

What Is Burglary Under Florida Law?

Under Florida Statute § 810.02, burglary occurs when a person enters or remains in a dwelling, structure, or conveyance without consent and with the intent to commit a crime inside.

Burglary does not require theft—intent to commit any crime (including assault, criminal mischief, or drug possession) while unlawfully inside the premises is enough for a burglary charge.

There are three primary types of property involved:

  • Dwelling – A home or place where people live
  • Structure – Any building not used for living (e.g., store, office)
  • Conveyance – Any motor vehicle, ship, trailer, or aircraft

Degrees of Burglary and Their Penalties

Burglary charges in Florida are classified based on the location, presence of others, and whether a weapon or assault occurred.

Third-Degree Felony Burglary

  • Unarmed burglary of an unoccupied structure or conveyance
  • Penalty: Up to 5 years in prison and/or $5,000 fine

Second-Degree Felony Burglary

  • Burglary of an occupied structure or dwelling without a weapon
  • Penalty: Up to 15 years in prison and/or $10,000 fine

First-Degree Felony Burglary

  • Burglary with a weapon or battery
  • Burglary of a dwelling with over $1,000 in damage
  • Penalty: Up to life in prison

The presence of a firearm, explosive, or an accomplice can result in sentence enhancements under Florida’s “10-20-Life” law.

Common Scenarios That Lead to Burglary Charges

Many people are shocked to find themselves facing burglary charges after situations like:

  • Entering a property during a dispute
  • Going into an abandoned building without realizing it’s private property
  • Retrieving belongings from an ex-partner’s home
  • Being misidentified by a witness or on unclear security footage

These situations often have gray areas that a skilled attorney can use to challenge the prosecution’s version of events.

Legal Defenses Against Burglary Charges

At Bozanic Law, we investigate every detail of your case to build a strong defense. Possible legal defenses include:

  • Lack of Intent – If you did not plan to commit a crime inside the property
  • Consent – If you were invited or believed you had the right to enter
  • Mistaken Identity – If there is no clear evidence you were the one who entered
  • Alibi – If you can prove you were elsewhere when the crime occurred
  • No Entry – If the prosecution cannot prove you physically entered the property

We also work to reduce charges, challenge illegal searches, and negotiate favorable plea agreements when appropriate.

Why You Need a Burglary Defense Attorney

A burglary conviction can impact:

  • Employment opportunities
  • Housing applications
  • Custody rights
  • Immigration status
  • Professional licensing

The sooner you involve a criminal defense lawyer, the more options you’ll have to protect your future.

No Panic, Call Bozanic!

Being charged with burglary in Florida doesn’t mean you’re guilty. With the right defense, you can fight back against harsh penalties and unfair accusations. Attorney Bozanic Law brings the skill, experience, and courtroom strength needed to defend your rights.

📍 Bozanic Law —17100 Royal Palm Blvd., Suite 1, Weston, FL 33326
📞 Call us today at 954-800-2864 for a confidential consultation.

Your defense starts with one call. Let’s build it together.

No Panic, Call Bozanic!

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