Chicago Burglary Lawyer

Robbery Related Offenses Lawyer in Cook County

There are several different types of criminal offenses that are classified as property crimes in Illinois. In many cases, people accused of these offenses will be charged with theft, which involves taking someone else's money or property without authorization. However, depending on the circumstances of a case, additional charges may apply, including burglary or robbery. These charges can significantly increase the penalties that a person may face. It is important for those accused of these crimes to have an experienced criminal defense attorney on their side.

At the Law Offices of James F. DiQuattro, we provide effective legal representation for people who have been charged with property crimes and related offenses. We understand how these cases are handled in the courts of Chicago and Cook County, and we know the defense strategies that can help our clients resolve their cases successfully. With our knowledgeable legal team working on your behalf, you will have the best chance of minimizing the potential penalties associated with robbery or burglary charges.

Burglary and Residential Burglary Charges in Illinois

A "burglar" is generally thought of as someone who breaks into or enters someone else's property in order to steal money or other items. However, the legal definition of burglary may include other types of activities as well. Burglary charges may apply in any situation where a person is accused of entering someone else's property without authorization and with the intent of committing theft or any felony offense. Burglary can take place in a residential or commercial building, a vehicle, a boat, or a freight container. In addition to theft, accusations that a person intended to commit an offense such as assault and battery, attempted murder, sexual assault, or other crimes classified as felonies may result in burglary charges.

Burglary that allegedly took place in a building will usually be charged as a Class 2 felony, and a conviction may result in a prison sentence between three and seven years. Burglary in a vehicle, plane, boat, train car, or freight container may be charged as a Class 3 felony with a jail sentence of two to five years if no damage occurred, but if the vehicle, vessel, or container was damaged, Class 2 felony charges may apply. Burglary in a school or child care facility is usually charged as a Class 1 felony, and a conviction may lead to a prison sentence of four to 15 years. Accusations of residential burglary in which a person illegally entered someone else's home or dwelling place will generally result in Class 1 felony charges.

Robbery, Aggravated Robbery, and Armed Robbery

In situations involving accusations that someone committed theft by taking money or property directly from someone else either by using force or by threatening to inflict injuries, charges of robbery may apply. This is generally considered a violent crime, and a conviction can result in harsh penalties.

In its most basic form, robbery is charged as a Class 2 felony. However, charges of aggravated robbery may apply if a person allegedly indicated to the victim that they were armed with a gun or another dangerous weapon. Even if they did not actually have a weapon in their possession, they may still be charged with aggravated robbery. Charges of aggravated robbery may also apply if a person is accused of committing theft after drugging a person with a controlled substance without their consent, including by injection, inhalation, or ingestion, with or without the knowledge of the alleged victim. Aggravated robbery is a Class 1 felony.

If a person allegedly carried or used a firearm or another dangerous weapon while committing robbery, they may be charged with armed robbery. In cases involving weapons other than firearms, a person may face Class X felony charges, and they may be sentenced to between six and 30 years in jail. In cases where a person was allegedly armed with a firearm, an additional 15 years will be added to their sentence, and if they allegedly fired a gun while committing robbery, 20 years will be added. If the discharge of a firearm led to someone's death or great bodily harm, their sentence may be increased by 25 years, or they may face a life sentence.

Contact Our Cook County Robbery and Burglary Defense Lawyer

The experienced criminal defense attorney at the Law Offices of James F. DiQuattro understands the complexities of criminal cases involving charges of robbery or burglary. We can help you determine the ideal defense strategies, and we will fight hard to protect your rights at all times. Do not hesitate to contact us today and set up a free consultation by calling 312-627-9482. With our knowledge of the law and our experience defending clients in Cook County courts, we can make sure that justice is served in your case.