A burglary charge in Florida is far more serious than most people realize. While many confuse burglary with theft, the legal definition is broader and often more severe. In Florida, burglary doesn’t require stealing anything—it can simply involve entering a dwelling, structure, or conveyance with the intent to commit a crime inside. That intent alone, combined with unauthorized entry, is enough to trigger felony-level consequences.

At Bozanic Law, we recognize the complexity of burglary cases and the devastating impact they can have on someone’s life. From potential prison time to a lifelong felony record, your future is on the line the moment you're charged. We’re here to help you fight back with strategic legal counsel, compassion, and unwavering advocacy.

What Is Considered Burglary in Florida?

According to Florida Statute §810.02, burglary occurs when someone unlawfully enters or remains in a structure, dwelling, or vehicle with the intent to commit an offense inside. The crime doesn’t have to be theft—it could be assault, criminal mischief, or any other unlawful act.

There are multiple classifications of burglary in Florida, including:

• Burglary of an unoccupied structure or conveyance — third-degree felony, up to 5 years in prison
• Burglary of an occupied structure or conveyance — second-degree felony, up to 15 years in prison
• Burglary of a dwelling (home) — second-degree felony, considered more serious due to its invasive nature
• Burglary with assault or battery — first-degree felony, punishable by life imprisonment
• Armed burglary — first-degree felony, mandatory minimum sentences often apply

Penalties increase significantly if you are accused of carrying a weapon, causing property damage, or encountering someone inside the location during the alleged crime.

Common Scenarios That May Lead to Burglary Charges:

• Entering a business after hours to commit vandalism or theft
• Walking into a neighbor’s garage without permission
• Breaking into a car with intent to steal property
• Trespassing in an abandoned building with alleged intent to commit a crime
• Domestic disputes involving unauthorized entry into a former partner’s residence

These cases often involve complex facts and rely on assumptions about intent, which means a good defense can make a world of difference.

What Should You Do If You’re Charged with Burglary?

If you’re being investigated or have already been arrested for burglary, do not speak to police or investigators without legal representation. Even if you believe the situation was a misunderstanding or that you had permission to enter the property, any statements you make can be misinterpreted and used against you.

Follow these steps immediately:

• Do not provide any explanations to law enforcement—assert your right to remain silent
• Avoid discussing the case with others, including friends or on social media
• Preserve any communication (texts, emails, voicemails) that may support your defense
• Contact Bozanic Law as soon as possible, so we can begin protecting your interests

Early legal intervention allows us to control the narrative, protect your rights, and ensure that you are not railroaded by assumptions or flawed evidence.

How Bozanic Law Builds a Strong Burglary Defense

Our approach to burglary defense begins with a deep dive into the facts. We examine surveillance footage, witness statements, property records, and police reports to identify inconsistencies, procedural errors, or violations of your constitutional rights. Every burglary case is different, and your defense should be tailored to your specific situation.

Our strategies may include:

• Challenging the element of intent, especially when no crime was committed inside the structure
• Demonstrating mistaken identity or lack of physical evidence linking you to the scene
• Arguing you had permission to be on the property or were lawfully present
• Disputing the credibility of witnesses, especially in emotionally charged situations
• Filing motions to suppress evidence obtained through unlawful searches or detainment

Our mission is to minimize the impact of the charge—or eliminate it entirely—so you can move forward with your life.

Should You Consider a Plea or Take the Case to Trial?

In some cases, a plea agreement might reduce a burglary charge to trespassing or attempted burglary, which carries significantly lighter penalties. However, not all offers are in your best interest. At Bozanic Law, we will evaluate the strength of the prosecution’s evidence, assess your goals, and determine the best course of action.

If we believe the case can be dismissed or won at trial, we’ll prepare accordingly and fight aggressively for a not-guilty verdict. If a resolution is better served outside the courtroom, we’ll negotiate terms that protect your freedom and future.

Choose a Law Firm That Treats You With Respect and Defends You With Purpose

Burglary charges carry harsh consequences—but they don’t have to define the rest of your life. At Bozanic Law, we treat our clients with dignity and listen to their full story. Led by attorney Zeljka Bozanic, our legal team is committed to providing not only a strong defense but compassionate support throughout your legal journey.

We offer free, no-obligation consultations to help you understand your legal rights and what comes next. Let’s work together to protect your future and restore your peace of mind.

📞 Call 954-800-2864 today to schedule your confidential case evaluation.