Experienced Colorado Defense Lawyer for Burglary Charges

Burglary charges in Colorado are serious felony offenses that can carry prison time, mandatory parole, and lifelong consequences. Unlike theft or robbery, burglary focuses on unlawful entry and intent, not whether property was actually taken or whether force was used against a person. Prosecutors across Colorado often charge burglary aggressively, even in cases involving misunderstandings, shared spaces, or minimal evidence of criminal intent.

At Pav Law, we defend individuals accused of burglary throughout Colorado. We act early, scrutinize the prosecution’s theory, and challenge attempts to turn ordinary disputes or ambiguous situations into felony convictions.

---

What Is Burglary Under Colorado Law?

Colorado law defines burglary as unlawfully entering or remaining in a building or occupied structure with the intent to commit a crime inside. The alleged crime does not need to be theft—it can be any offense, including assault, criminal mischief, or another felony.

Key elements prosecutors must prove include:

• Unlawful entry or remaining
• A building or occupied structure
• Intent to commit a crime at the time of entry

If prosecutors cannot prove intent at the moment of entry, the burglary charge may fail.

---

Degrees of Burglary in Colorado

Colorado recognizes multiple levels of burglary, each carrying different penalties:

• First-degree burglary often involves unlawful entry into a dwelling and allegations of assault or use of a weapon
• Second-degree burglary typically involves unlawful entry into a building with intent to commit a crime
• Third-degree burglary often involves tampering with locks, safes, ATMs, or other secured property

Higher-degree burglary charges expose defendants to longer prison sentences and enhanced penalties.

---

How Burglary Charges Commonly Arise

We frequently see burglary charges filed after:

• Alleged unauthorized entry into homes or apartments
• Disputes involving shared or former residences
• Entry into businesses after hours
• Situations involving intoxication or confusion
• Allegations based on circumstantial evidence rather than direct proof

In many cases, law enforcement responds after the incident and relies on assumptions about intent rather than clear evidence.

---

Burglary vs. Robbery vs. Theft

Understanding the distinction between these charges is critical.

Burglary

The primary difference between burglary and other types of theft is that includes the unlawful entry with intent to commit a crime inside. No property needs to be taken, and no confrontation is required. Burglary is typically charged as a felony.

Robbery

While robbery involves taking property directly from a person using force, threats, or intimidation. It is a crime against a person and always a felony.

Theft

Finally, theft involves taking property without permission, usually without confrontation or unlawful entry. Theft charges depend on the value of the property and can range from misdemeanors to felonies.

Prosecutors sometimes charge burglary when facts better support trespass or theft. Pav Law challenges those charging decisions aggressively.

---

Penalties for a Burglary Conviction in Colorado

A burglary conviction can result in:

• Prison sentences
• Mandatory parole
• Permanent felony record
• Loss of firearm rights
• Employment and housing barriers
• Immigration consequences for non-citizens

First-degree burglary convictions often carry especially severe penalties.

---

Common Defenses to Burglary Charges

Burglary cases often hinge on intent, authorization, and timing. Depending on the facts, Pav Law may focus on:

• Lack of intent to commit a crime at entry
• Permission or lawful access to the property
• Mistaken identity
• Insufficient evidence of unlawful entry
• Shared or disputed ownership
• False or exaggerated allegations
• Constitutional violations during investigation or arrest

We challenge assumptions and require prosecutors to prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt.

---

Burglary and Related Charges

Burglary charges often appear alongside other allegations, including:

• Theft & property damage
• Criminal mischief
• Assault
• Menacing
• Weapons offenses

Pav Law evaluates the entire charging structure and builds a defense strategy that addresses all potential exposure.

---

How Pav Law Defends Burglary Cases Across Colorado

We approach burglary cases with urgency and precision. Our defense process includes:

1. Immediate review of police reports and charging documents
2. Analysis of alleged entry and intent
3. Investigation of ownership and access issues
4. Strategic negotiations to reduce or dismiss charges
5. Trial-ready preparation when resolution is not offered

We do not accept overcharging or speculation as proof.

---

---

Early Legal Action Matters in Burglary Cases

Burglary cases can escalate quickly, especially when prosecutors pursue higher-degree charges. Early legal involvement allows us to:

• Challenge felony classifications
• Prevent charge escalation
• Preserve favorable evidence
• Shape negotiations early

Waiting limits options. Acting early protects your future.

---