Burglary Attorney in Orange County
Over 30 Years of Direct Defense for Burglary Allegations
A burglary charge can turn on what prosecutors claim happened at the moment of entry. The location, whether an entry occurred, the alleged intent, and the evidence used to identify a suspect all require close review. I represent Orange County clients after burglary arrests, accusations, investigations, and criminal filings.
I personally examine the facts and explain what the prosecution must prove. Whether the allegation involves a residence, business, garage, or vehicle, I tailor the defense strategy to the property, timeline, evidence, and related charges.
Call (949) 234-6525 for a free, confidential consultation. I can review your immediate concerns and explain the next steps in your Orange County burglary case.
More Than 5,000 Cases & Over 100 Trials
Clients work directly with me, not through layers of staff. I have handled more than 5,000 cases and conducted more than 100 trials, and I keep clients informed about the evidence, court proceedings, legal options, and decisions that may shape their defense.
My initial review may address:
- Charging documents: The specific offense, degree of burglary, enhancements, and related allegations filed or under investigation.
- Entry and intent: What allegedly occurred and whether the evidence supports criminal intent at the time of entry.
- Identification evidence: Video, photographs, witness accounts, electronic information, and physical evidence allegedly connecting the accused person to the property.
- Upcoming decisions: Court dates, release conditions, communications with investigators, plea discussions, and preparation for litigation or trial.
I served as an Orange County Public Defender from 1998 to 2000. That background and my trial experience inform how I evaluate the prosecution’s evidence and prepare for contested court proceedings.
How I Investigate a Burglary Charge
I test each required element rather than accept the accusation at face value. That investigation may cover the alleged entry, the condition and use of the property, the timeline, witness observations, police reports, and the way physical or electronic evidence was obtained.
Issues that may require investigation include:
- Lack of intent to commit theft or another felony at the time of entry.
- No entry into the location identified in the charge.
- Consent or permission to enter the property.
- Mistaken identity or an unreliable identification procedure.
- Incomplete video or an inaccurate interpretation of recorded events.
- Inconsistent witness statements or a limited opportunity to observe.
- An unlawful search, seizure, or interrogation.
Entering a business doesn’t automatically establish burglary. California Penal Code section 459.5 defines shoplifting as entering an open commercial establishment during regular business hours with intent to commit larceny when the value of the property taken or intended to be taken is $950 or less. Depending on the evidence and charging decision, the allegations may instead involve trespass, theft, possession of burglary tools, or an attempted offense.
