Burglary & Theft Defense Attorney in Sandy Springs

If you’ve been charged with burglary or theft in Sandy Springs, you may feel overwhelmed and uncertain about what steps to take next. These are serious charges, and the consequences of a conviction can be life-altering, including heavy fines, long-term imprisonment, and a permanent criminal record. At The Mazloom Law Firm LLC, we understand the weight of these charges and are committed to providing you with aggressive legal representation to protect your future.

Whether you’re facing accusations of burglary, shoplifting, or any other theft-related offense, our team is here to help you navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system. We serve clients in Sandy Springs and throughout the greater Atlanta area. Attorney Mazi Mazloom and our team are ready to help you mount a strong defense, focusing on your best interests every step of the way.

Call us today at 770-590-9837 to schedule a consultation and start building your defense.

Why Choose The Mazloom Law Firm LLC in Sandy Springs?

When facing serious charges like burglary or theft, the quality of your legal defense can make all the difference. At The Mazloom Law Firm LLC, we stand out for several reasons:

Deep Knowledge of Georgia’s Criminal Laws: We understand the nuances of Georgia’s criminal statutes, especially when it comes to burglary and theft offenses. This knowledge enables us to tailor a defense strategy that fits your specific case.
Proven Results: Our firm has a track record of success in defending individuals against burglary and theft charges. We work diligently to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients, whether that means negotiating a favorable plea agreement or winning in court.
Personalized Legal Care: When you work with us, you’ll receive personal attention and thoughtful guidance. We don’t treat you as just another case — we’re committed to understanding the details of your situation and tailoring a defense plan specifically for you.
Relentless Advocacy: We will fight tirelessly on your behalf. Whether negotiating with the prosecution or defending you in court, we won’t back down when it comes to defending your rights.

Types of Burglary & Theft Charges in Sandy Springs

At The Mazloom Law Firm LLC, we handle a wide range of burglary and theft charges in Sandy Springs. Here are some of the most common charges we defend against:

Burglary (OCGA § 16-7-1)

Burglary is a serious crime in Georgia and can lead to significant prison time. Under Georgia law, burglary is defined as entering a building or structure without authorization and with the intent to commit a crime once inside.

Georgia distinguishes between first-degree burglary and second-degree burglary:

First-Degree Burglary: This charge applies when a person enters a dwelling (e.g., home, apartment) with the intent to commit a crime, such as theft or assault. First-degree burglary is a felony and can lead to a sentence of up to 20 years in prison.
Second-Degree Burglary: This occurs when someone enters a non-residential structure (like a business or warehouse) with criminal intent. The penalty for second-degree burglary is less severe than for first-degree burglary, but it can still lead to a prison sentence of 3 to 7 years.

Theft by Taking (OCGA § 16-8-2)

Theft by taking is one of the most common theft charges in Georgia. This occurs when someone takes another person’s property without their consent, with the intention of permanently depriving them of it. The penalties for theft by taking depend on the value of the property involved:

If the property is valued under $1,500, the charge is generally considered a misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail.
If the value exceeds $1,500, it becomes a felony and can result in 1 to 10 years in prison.

Shoplifting (OCGA § 16-8-14)

Shoplifting involves taking merchandise from a store without paying. In Georgia, shoplifting can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the value of the goods taken.

If the stolen items are worth more than $500, the offense is typically considered a felony, which can carry penalties of up to 5 years in prison.

Robbery (OCGA § 16-8-40)

Robbery is different from theft in that it involves the use of force, intimidation, or threats to take someone else’s property. Robbery is considered a violent felony in Georgia and can result in severe penalties, including:

10 years to life in prison depending on the circumstances of the robbery.

If the crime involves a weapon or injury to the victim, the penalties can be even harsher.

The Criminal Justice Process for Burglary & Theft Charges

Understanding the criminal justice process for burglary and theft cases can be crucial to your defense. Here’s an overview of the typical stages involved when you’re charged with a burglary or theft-related crime:

1. Investigation & Arrest

An investigation will usually be initiated by law enforcement officers. They may gather evidence, interview witnesses, or review surveillance footage. If the police believe there’s enough evidence, they will arrest you and bring you to jail.

2. Initial Appearance & Bond Hearing

Once arrested, you will have an initial appearance in front of a judge. During this hearing, the judge will inform you of the charges against you and set bail or bond.

3. Pre-Trial Proceedings

In the pre-trial phase, both the prosecution and defense exchange evidence through a process known as discovery. Motions may also be filed by either party to suppress evidence or request other legal remedies.

4. Trial

If no plea agreement is reached, your case will go to trial. In a trial, the prosecution must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Your defense attorney will work to challenge the prosecution’s evidence, potentially presenting an alibi or disputing key pieces of evidence.

5. Sentencing

If you are convicted, the judge will decide on your sentence. This could include fines, probation, or imprisonment, depending on the severity of the charge and your criminal history.

6. Appeals

If you’re convicted, you have the right to appeal the verdict. An appellate court will review the trial for legal errors that may have affected the outcome of your case.

Defenses to Burglary & Theft Charges in Sandy Springs

There are several potential defenses to burglary and theft charges, and your defense strategy will depend on the specifics of your case. Some common defenses include:

Mistaken Identity: If you were mistakenly identified as the perpetrator, we may be able to show that you were not involved in the crime.
Lack of Intent: In burglary cases, the prosecution must prove that you entered a building with the intent to commit a crime. If there was no criminal intent, this could serve as a defense.
Consent: If you had permission to take the property or enter the structure, this could lead to the dismissal of charges.
Illegal Search & Seizure: If law enforcement violated your constitutional rights during the investigation, we may be able to have evidence against you suppressed.

Why You Need a Defense Attorney for Your Burglary & Theft Case

Being accused of burglary or theft can be a frightening experience. You might be worried about the potential penalties and the long-term consequences a conviction could have on your life. A skilled criminal defense attorney can provide you with the legal knowledge and support you need to defend your rights and fight the charges.

At The Mazloom Law Firm LLC, we offer personalized, aggressive representation tailored to your case. We will evaluate all aspects of your situation, work to challenge the evidence against you, and develop a defense strategy designed to achieve the best possible outcome for you.

Contact The Mazloom Law Firm LLC for Burglary & Theft Defense in Sandy Springs

If you’re facing burglary or theft charges in Sandy Springs, Georgia, it’s crucial to have an experienced defense attorney by your side. At The Mazloom Law Firm LLC, we are committed to protecting your rights and providing you with the best legal defense possible.

Call us at 770-590-9837 or visit our contact page today to schedule a consultation with Attorney Mazi Mazloom. Let us guide you through the criminal justice process and work to protect your future.