In Washington state, burglary is a serious criminal offense defined as unlawfully entering or remaining in a building or structure with the intent to commit a crime while there. It doesn't require the use of force, violence, or even stealing to qualify as burglary—simply the unlawful intent and entry are enough.
One of the most common misconceptions is that burglary only involves stealing, but it can also include vandalism, assault, and the possession of illegal substances within the premises. Understanding what burglary is in Washington is important, especially if you are currently being accused of it.
Burglary is a crime that strikes at the very heart of security and privacy, making it one of the most serious property-related offenses you can commit in Washington state. It goes beyond simple theft by including unlawful entry with the intent to commit different crimes once you make your way inside.
Whether it’s a home, business, or vehicle, the burglary lies in the intrusion and the potential harm it poses to the occupants or the property owner. The state classifies burglary in different degrees based on the severity of the offense, the location, and whether any aggravating factors, such as weapons or assaults, are involved.
Washington state treats burglary as a serious crime because of the potential for harm to befall individuals, families, and businesses. The penalties for burglary generally involve substantial prison sentences, fines, and a criminal record that can negatively impact your future endeavors.
First-degree burglary is the most severe offense, while second- and third-degree burglaries carry lesser but still serious consequences. Regardless of the degree, you will end up facing long-term repercussions that far extend the legal penalties if you are convicted of burglary in Washington. This conviction can also impact your reputation, career, and personal life.
Understanding the definitions, statutes, and classifications of burglary is essential for anyone navigating or seeking to prevent criminal charges in the state.
Washington State Laws Relevant to Burglary in Federal WayIn Washington state, burglary is governed by several statutes that define the crime and outline its varying degrees. You can find all this information outlined in the Revised Code of Washington (RCW).
RCW 9A.52.020 – Burglary in the First DegreeThis statute defines first-degree burglary and specifies the conditions under which you can be charged. It includes burglary of a dwelling with the intent to commit a crime, which is aggravated if you were armed with a deadly weapon or you ended up assaulting someone during the burglary.
RCW 9A.52.030 – Burglary in the Second Degree
This statute addresses second-degree burglary, a charge typically applied when the burglary occurs in non-dwelling locations, such as businesses or other properties.
This statute talks about when you unlawfully enter a vehicle or structure without the intent to commit a felony, assault, or theft.
This statute provides definitions for key terms used in burglary laws, including "building," "dwelling," and "vehicle."
All these statutes are to clear up the elements you can expect when it comes to these kinds of burglary offenses. They outline penalties for each degree of burglary and distinguish between the different levels of severity within each crime.
Safety and Peace of Mind in Federal WayWhile Federal Way has many of the same amenities you can find in larger cities, it is also a place where residents value safety and community. The city has made a great effort to enhance public safety, with active community policing and local programs aimed at reducing crime and creating stronger neighborhood relationships.
However, like any urban area, Federal Way faces the same kind of challenges, including property crimes like burglary. Thankfully, its proactive law enforcement and commitment to creating safe spaces for families make it an overall secure place to live.
In the unfortunate event of a burglary charge, residents can feel confident that the legal system can handle such offenses and ensure justice.
Why You Need Expert Legal Guidance and Strategy to Protect Your FutureA conviction for burglary can have severe long-term consequences, including significant prison time, heavy fines, and a permanent criminal record that can affect future employment and personal opportunities.
A qualified criminal defense attorney will not only fight for your immediate legal rights but also work to minimize the future impact of your case. They can help you explore alternatives to incarceration, such as plea deals or diversion programs, and provide insight into navigating the criminal justice system. With expert legal counsel, you gain the support needed to protect both your present circumstances and your long-term future.
We firmly believe that every burglary charge can be challenged in some way. Our attorneys have been defending clients against burglary charges throughout Western Washington for over 20 years. If you or a loved one are facing a burglary criminal charge, you must speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
A good burglary defense attorney can do several things to ensure that your case has a great chance at a favorable outcome. Our experienced and aggressive criminal defense attorneys will fight to protect your rights, keep you out of jail, and work to minimize the long-term impact on your future.
Our Federal Way Burglary Lawyers Will Defend Your RightsBurglary, like many other crimes, is categorized by "degrees." According to Washington law, burglary is defined as entering into a home or business with the intent to commit a crime. The severity of the crime will dictate the nature of the charge, but it doesn't matter whether it's carried out or not.
If someone enters a structure, or stays longer than invited, and they intend to commit a criminal act, they can be charged with burglary. Understanding burglary laws in Washington State is often challenging, but our Federal Way burglary attorneys can offer you reliable legal information about the nature of your criminal charge.
Please review the following Federal Way burglary charges to get a better idea of how the law applies:
No matter which Federal Way burglary charge you're facing, a conviction could have a detrimental impact on your entire life and should be avoided at all costs. If you've been arrested for burglary in Washington, talk to one of the Federal Way burglary lawyers at the Law Office of Jason S. Newcombe and find out how we can help you defend your legal rights.
Our professional Federal Way lawyers will aggressively seek the dismissal of your charges by conducting a thorough investigation of the facts. If this proves impossible, your lawyer will then seek a reduction of the punishments associated with the burglary crime.
Our Federal Way Burglary Attorneys Offer A Cost-Free ConsultationThe prosecutor in any Washington burglary case must prove that the defendant entered the Federal Way building or property in question with the intent to commit a crime. This burden of proof can be challenging, so our Federal Way burglary lawyers will carefully examine the evidence to determine whether any inaccuracies or overlooked details exist.
Our Federal Way burglary attorneys will want to know whether the evidence was obtained lawfully. If not, we may have an effective line of defense. We are not here to judge your actions. Our job is to defend your legal rights and offer you reliable counsel based on Washington State criminal law.
Our Federal Way attorneys offer customized payment plans, so you can afford a professional attorney as a way to protect your personal future and freedom.