Strong Defence Against Ontario Break and Enter Charges
Break and enter is a crime that carries significant penalties if you are convicted. If you have been accused of this offence, your choice of defence lawyer will have a major impact on your future.
I am Toronto break and enter defence lawyer Anthony De Marco, and I have more than 25 years of experience defending clients against allegations of property offences like break and enter. I provide my clients with the kind of strong, intelligent defence needed to protect their rights and freedom.
If you have been arrested or charged with break and enter in the Toronto area, call me for a consultation. You can reach me at 416-651-2299 or toll free at 1-888-399-3164. You can also contact my Toronto defence law firm online.
Understanding the Crime of Break and Enter
Break and enter is the crime of breaking into a place with the intent to commit a criminal offence therein. Notice the word "intent." That means a person can be guilty of break and enter even if he or she does not actually commit another crime once inside the place.
There are two types of break and enter: into a dwelling or into a place other than a dwelling. A dwelling can be a house, apartment or even a garage. A non-dwelling can be a warehouse, a convenience store or any number of similar places.
The word "break" does not mean that this crime requires the accused to actually break down a door or shatter a window. In fact, "breaking" can be as simple as opening a door and walking inside, or even reaching into an open window.
Possible Penalties for Break and Enter in Ontario
A conviction for break and enter into a dwelling could result in imprisonment for life. Break and enter into a non-dwelling carries a maximum possible sentence of 10 years in prison. These are very serious consequences. As a criminal defence lawyer, I work hard to win acquittals for my clients. If that is not realistic, I will seek your permission to negotiate for a lesser punishment.
Home Invasion
A home invasion occurs if there are people inside the dwelling at the time of the break and enter. These offences attract much longer prison terms than a simple break and enter. Home invasion is treated by the Crown as a much more serious offence. You need a very skilled defence lawyer if you are facing a home invasion charge.
Contact My Toronto Home Invasion Defence Law Firm
If you have been arrested or charged with break and enter or home invasion in the Toronto area, I am ready to listen to your side of the story and help you understand what happens now. For a free 30-minute consultation, please call 416-651-2299 or toll free 1-888-399-3164. You can also contact my law firm online.
