Facing Burglary Charges In North Carolina

In this article, you can discover:

• What constitutes burglary under North Carolina law.
• The key differences between first and second-degree burglary charges.
• How the persecution proves a burglary conviction and potential defenses.

What Is The Definition Of Burglary In North Carolina?

Under North Carolina law, burglary is defined as trespassing or breaking and/or entering into another’s dwelling house or sleeping apartment at night with the intention to steal or commit a felony. This means that the crime must take place during nighttime hours in a residence. For example, if someone lives above their gas station, breaking into that gas station can be considered as breaking into a house. If the act occurs during the day, it is termed as breaking and entering, not burglary.

How Does North Carolina Distinguish Between First Degree And Second Degree Burglary?

North Carolina differentiates these charges based on potential or actual harm at the time of the crime. First-degree burglary is charged when the crime occurs in an occupied house, posing a higher threat of injury to inhabitants. In contrast, if the house is unoccupied, it’s deemed second-degree burglary.

Which Elements Must The Prosecution Prove For A Burglary Conviction In North Carolina?

For a burglary conviction, the prosecution must establish:

• Trespassing, meaning the accused wasn’t invited.
• Breaking and/or entering; even simply reaching a hand through a threshold or poking a tool through an open window qualifies.
• The act occurred in a residence or sleeping apartment.
• It took place at night. This is determined by referencing sunset and sunrise times from the NOAA website.
• The accused had the intent to commit theft or another felony inside the property before entering.

Are There Factors That Can Increase Penalties For Burglary In North Carolina?

Yes, carrying a weapon, causing injury, acting with someone else, or committing a significant theft inside can all heighten penalties. The severity of the injury, number of accomplices, and value of stolen items are essential considerations.

What Defenses Are Available Against Burglary Charges In North Carolina?

Potential defenses include proving the accused was invited in or that the incident didn’t happen at night. Arguably, the most significant defense centers on challenging the prosecution’s ability to prove the accused’s intent at the time of entry. Without clear evidence, it’s challenging to establish intent beyond a reasonable doubt.

How Does One’s Criminal Record Affect Burglary Sentencing In North Carolina?

The impact of one’s criminal history is substantial. Judges consider previous offenses to determine an individual’s classification, ranging from class three to class six, with class six indicating a more extensive criminal history—the more significant the criminal history, the harsher the potential sentence.

For more information on Facing Burglary Charges In North Carolina, an initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (252) 371-0127 today.