Burglary is the entering into a building or “occupied structure” with the intent to commit a crime therein. The term “occupied structure” means any structure, vehicle, boat or place adapted for the overnight accommodations or for carrying on business.

When you conjure up an image of a burglary, or a burglary in progress, you very likely may envision a person dressed in dark clothing with their face hidden behind a mask as the burglar attempts to pry open your window at 4am. Burglary encompasses both this and other types of conduct. A Burglary takes place when one enters a building or home with the intent to commit a crime – not necessarily just a theft.

Consider this hypothetical: You get into a verbal confrontation over the phone after discovering your friend ate your entire bag of potato chips. Aggravated, you slam down the phone and drive to your soon-to-be former friend’s house. You barge in thru the front door hoping to punch him in the nose. Lucky for him you spot a new bag of potato chips on the kitchen counter and, well, problem resolved. Here, the act of entering into the home with the intent to commit a crime (assault) is a burglary.

The penalties for Burglary are severe. If a person commits a Burglary while armed with a deadly weapon or does bodily harm that person faces up to 15 years in prison. Otherwise, Burglary is punishable in New Hampshire by up to 7 years in prison.

Attorney Hayes is experienced and aggressive criminal defense lawyer ready to fight the Burglary charge. Call the Nashua burglary attorneys at Hayes Law Firm, PLLC today for a free consultation or give us a call at 978-314-4950.

In addition to these cases, simple assault, which involves unprivileged contact with another person, is a misdemeanor charge for anyone convicted. At Hayes Law Firm, you can speak with an experienced criminal defense lawyer who understands New Hampshire’s assault laws and is eager to help defend your rights. With an expert lawyer on your case, you may avoid the totality of penalties and consequences that these charges may bring if you are convicted.