Philadelphia Burglary, Robbery, & Theft Defense Lawyers
Are you accused of entering a property illegally or taking something from someone else that did not belong to you? If so, the Philadelphia burglary, robbery, and theft defense lawyers at Shuttleworth Law PC want to defend your rights.
“Our legal team has decades of experience successfully exonerating those who stand wrongfully accused. We take the time to review the alleged evidence against you, prosecutorial and police methodologies, and other pertinent facts to determine what they can prove, if anything.“
When an opportunity exists to preserve your freedom, you can count on our firm to raise the relevant issues, file motions, exclude evidence, and make arguments that position your case in a favorable light. However, the longer you wait to secure private counsel, the longer you remain unprotected. Get in touch with Shuttleworth Law PC to determine which options are available to you.
Get My Free Case Evaluation Now
Brad V. Shuttleworth, Esq. invites prospective clients to discuss their cases with him at no cost. Call the Philadelphia burglary, robbery, and theft defense lawyers at Shuttleworth Law PC now for Your Free Case Evaluation at (215) 774-1371. You can also message him here directly.
Unable to meet at our Philly office? No worries. Our burglary, robbery, and theft defense attorneys can meet with you by phone or secure video conferencing.
We Defend Tough Burglary, Robbery, & Theft Charges in PA
Pennsylvania takes a tough stance against burglary, robbery, and theft crimes. However, you should never pay for a crime you did not commit or that the Commonwealth cannot legally prove. Otherwise, you could unnecessarily face severe penalties, such as prison and thousands in fines.
The Philadelphia burglary, robbery, and theft defense lawyers at Shuttleworth Law PC defend the wrongfully accused against the following types of charges and potential penalties:
You do not have to commit any act of theft or threat of violence to face burglary charges, unlike a robbery charge. Instead, you only need to have entered a property without permission with the intent to commit a crime in it. The type of building that is being entered will also determine the degree of your charges.
Here are the penalties that you can face for burglary in Pennsylvania under 18 Pa.C.S. 3502 include:
- First-degree felony burglary: If you illegally entered a property, like a home or apartment, where people were present and intended to commit a crime, punishable by up to 20 years in prison and $25,000 in fines
- Second-degree felony burglary: If you illegally entered a non-residential building to commit a crime, and no people were present, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and $25,000 in fines
The Philadelphia burglary, robbery, and theft defense lawyers at Shuttleworth Law PC can help you devise a case strategy that asserts your rights and protects your freedom. If you are ready to learn about your case and legal options, check out how our burglary defense could help.
Robbery is a violent crime and involves harming or threatening to harm another person by use of physical force or with a weapon. If someone is convicted of robbery in PA, theft charges must be proven in addition to the element of force. A Philadelphia burglary, robbery, and theft defense lawyer at Shuttleworth Law PC will oversee the entire process so that you get your fair day in court.
Penalties that you could face for robbery in Pennsylvania under 18 Pa.C.S. § 3701 include:
- First-degree felony robbery: Inflicts serious or threat of serious bodily harm during a theft, punishable by up to 20 years in prison and $25,000 in fines
- Second-degree felony robbery: When a bodily injury, or threat of a bodily injury, occurs during the commission of a theft, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and $25,000 in fines
- Third-degree felony robbery: If any level of force is used to commission a theft, punishable by up to 7 years in jail and $10,000 in fines
Robbery is a serious charge to face that could lead to lifelong consequences. However, it is crucial to understand that your charges are defensible with a Philadelphia burglary, robbery, and theft defense lawyer. Find out how Brad can help you by giving him a call. You can also check out our services page on robbery charges here.
Under 18 Pa.C.S. § 3921, the Commonwealth defines theft as theft by unlawful taking or disposition. This means that you could be charged if you stole property from another with the intent to permanently deprive them of the property.
This statute divides theft into two categories: movable and unmovable. However, you or a loved one may be facing retail theft charges under 18 Pa.C.S. § 3929. The Philadelphia burglary, robbery, and theft defense lawyer at Shuttleworth Law PC can also help you defend these types of charges.
Below, we have outlined the potential penalties on the line for theft by unlawful taking:
- More than $2,000: Third-degree felony, punishable by up to seven years in prison and $15,000 in fines
- $200 to $2,000: First-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to five years in prison and $10,000 in fines
- $50 to $199: Second-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to two years in prison and $5,000 in fines
- Less than $50: Third-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in prison and $2,500 in fines
- Theft of a firearm or during a disaster: Second-degree felony, punishable by up to 10 years in prison and $25,000 in fines
If you hire a Philadelphia burglary, robbery, and theft defense lawyer at our firm, you can count on Shuttleworth Law PC to utilize our resources efficiently and effectively to create the best possible defense we can build. While every case is different, our goal is to see you walk out of the courtroom as a free person, regardless of the facts. You can also learn more via our theft defense services page.
Start Defending Your Case With a Single Call
Shuttleworth Law PC takes a direct, down-to-earth approach with clients. Brad V. Shuttleworth, Esq. will remain honest about your case while looking for every chance to get your charges dropped, reduced, or beat. Learn more about how we can help with Your Free Case Evaluation by calling (215) 774-1371.
Shuttleworth Law PC Devises Effective Defensive Strategies
Our Philadelphia burglary, robbery, and theft defense lawyers have a proven and successful track record for defending clients against these types of charges at Shuttleworth Law PC. While every case is unique, our legal team will take the time to investigate the facts and execute a customized defensive strategy on your behalf.
Possible defenses that could apply to your burglary, robbery, and theft charges include:
Possible Defense #1. Honest Mistake
A commonly used defense for theft crimes is that you honestly did not believe you were stealing the item. Pennsylvania laws generally require that you had the intent to take property that did not belong to you.
Your intent is an essential element. Prosecutors cannot convict you of the crime of theft if they cannot prove your intent. Our Philadelphia burglary, robbery, and theft defense lawyers will hold them accountable.
Possible Defense #2. Involuntary Intoxication Defense
It could be possible to defend theft charges if you can prove that you were involuntarily intoxicated at the time of the crime. These defenses are challenging, so you should seek legal help from Philadelphia burglary, robbery, and theft defense lawyers as soon as possible.
Possible Defense #3. Had Permission Defense
A prosecutor must prove that you intended to deprive the property owner of services or value. You will have a compelling defense if you can provide evidence that you believed that the property owner gave you the right to borrow the property.
Possible Defense #4. Open to the Public Defense
If the element of unlawful entry applies to getting a conviction against you, the prosecutor might not have a case if you were in a place that is open to the public. Your Philadelphia burglary, robbery, and theft defense lawyers will help you prove your side of the story if it applies to your situation.
Possible Defense #5. Mistaken identity Defense
If a witness makes an inaccurate or questionable identification or evidence is unclear on your identity, we can use this information to bolster a defense against your charges. After all, how can the Commonwealth hold you liable for a crime that they cannot prove was committed by you?
Possible Defense #6. Alibi Defense
An alibi defense may also work if it can be shown that you were not present where the crime took place. However, alibi defenses require advance notification to prosecutors. Your Philadelphia burglary, robbery, and theft defense lawyers at Shuttleworth Law PC will help you handle this aspect of your case if it applies.
Possible Defense #7. Lack of False Pretenses or Deception
This defense only applies to certain types of theft charges. If part of your theft charges includes misrepresenting yourself to commit theft, you can argue that you did not misrepresent yourself at all. When prosecutors do not have evidence to prove that you did have false pretenses or that you committed deception, this defense may prove to be a winning strategy.
Possible Defense #8. Returned Property
Returning stolen property will not result in your charges being dismissed. However, if you did return it, a Pennsylvania judge might be more sympathetic toward you during sentencing. Shuttleworth Law PC will help you present your remorse and actions in an impactful manner.
Possible Defense #9. Entrapment Defense
Entrapment is another possible legal defense for Pennsylvania burglary, robbery, and theft crimes. Entrapment is when someone coerced you into committing a crime and intended to get you arrested. Typically, it occurs when someone commits a crime as part of a government-ordered operation.
Possible Defense #10. Duress Defense
Were you forced to commit a crime under threat of harm to you or your family? If so, you could raise a duress defense. Your Philadelphia burglary, robbery, and theft defense lawyers will help you collect evidence to prove that your life felt threatened by your detractor and that you were one of the victims, not the perpetrators.
Our Firm Has Helped the Accused Walk Away Free
Shuttleworth Law PC is a results-oriented law firm. Our #1 goal is to get you the outcome you want. While every case is unique, it can be reassuring to know that others in your situation have genuinely been blown away by our work.
Our legal has accomplished excellent results for clients. Check out some of our recent case results below:
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania v. C.L.
Ruling: Not Guilty
Client charged with armed robbery of a bank in Philadelphia. The incident was caught on video. Trial was held in front of a judge, and client was found NOT GUILTY of all charges. The defense was mistaken identification. As a criminal defense lawyer in Philadelphia, I take great pride in achieving the most advantageous outcome.
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania v. D.A.
Ruling: Not Guilty
Client was charged with aggravated assault of a correctional officer while in custody at the Detention Center in Philadelphia, PA (part of the Philadelphia Prison System). He testified that he had to punch the correctional officer in self-defense, because he was attacked by two officers. Client was found NOT GUILTY.
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania v. D.C.
Ruling: Not Guilty
Client accused of burglarizing a home at night. A neighbor witness claimed to have seen the burglar and recognized him as client. Witness also claimed he knew client from the neighborhood, which is why he recognized him. Mistaken identification was the defense. Client found NOT GUILTY of all charges.
Why Hire Philadelphia Burglary, Robbery, & Theft Defense Lawyers at Shuttleworth Law PC
REASSURANCE is the most compelling reason to hire a burglary, robbery, and theft defense lawyer. Who knows what could happen to your future if you face the courts unrepresented?
Legal mistakes can lead to lifelong consequences that no one would ever want to endure, such as fines and time in prison. Stop them from happening in the first place: hire the Philadelphia burglary, robbery, and theft defense lawyers at Shuttleworth Law PC to represent your rights.
Need more reasons as to why you should hire private counsel? We get it.
Here are 7 more ways that Shuttleworth Law PC delivers on results:
Reason #1. Defends You AGGRESSIVELY
There is nothing more disappointing than hiring a defense attorney and discovering that they are taking a cavalier approach to one of the most significant legal events of your life. You will not have to deal with this attitude if you hire our Philadelphia burglary, robbery, and theft defense lawyers. We will aggressively hold the justice system accountable so that you get a fair shake in the courtroom.
Reason #2. Helps You Understand the Law
State and federal laws are confusing, especially about how they apply to your situation. When you work with Shuttleworth Law PC, you hire a team of legal professionals who understand the judicial system’s nuances in ways that well-meaning family members do not. You can count on us to explain the law in a way that makes sense so that you can make the most informed decisions possible.
Reason #3. Seeks Rapid Resolutions
Your Philadelphia burglary, robbery, and theft defense lawyers always want to see you walk away free, period. Sometimes, we can achieve results for clients even before their next hearing. Our legal team will pursue all legal routes to resolve your case as quickly as possible if you decide to hire us.
Reason #4. Points Out Civil Rights Violations
Defense lawyers learn proper procedure. We know what police officers can and cannot do when investigating a client. If evidence was obtained illegally, your Philadelphia burglary, robbery, and theft defense lawyers at Shuttleworth Law PC could get the evidence thrown out of your case, often leading to dismissals. Motions to suppress evidence are a powerful tool in criminal court.
Reason #5. Maintains Our Local Relationship
After working in the legal field for long periods, defense attorneys develop relationships with prosecutors, cops, judges, parole officers, and clerks. While creating a positive relationship with the “other side” may seem odd, both sides understand that good relationships benefit everyone involved – especially our clients.
Reason #6. Experienced in Defending Burglary, Robbery, & Theft Charges
Not all attorneys are built the same. Experienced Philadelphia burglary, robbery, and theft defense lawyers have specifically dealt with cases relating to criminal charges. At Shuttleworth Law PC, our team has been practicing criminal defense for most of our careers and knows how to provide our clients with the right legal advice and recommendations.
Reason #7. We Know How the Courts Work
Every state has its legal system and distinct set of laws. Many of the states have different rules of their own. That is why it makes sense to hire Shuttleworth Law PC if you face a case in Pennsylvania and South Jersey. We understand the local area, attitudes, and people.
Schedule My Free Case Evaluation With Brad Now
Fighting a criminal case is a life-changing event. It is better to hire Philadelphia burglary, robbery, and theft defense lawyers when pursuing the outcome you want and deserve. Get Your Free Case Evaluation with Brad V. Shuttleworth, Esq. by calling (215) 774-1371 or message him online here.
Caution: Prosecutors Can Make Things Worse for You
Like a defense attorney, prosecutors love winning their cases. Consider the following passage from a special topic series by American Prosecutors Research Institute (APRI) on Basic Trial Techniques for Prosecutors:
“A successful trial starts long before the venire (potential juror) is brought in. Simply, stated, preparation is the key to victory. You must thoroughly familiarize yourself with the evidence, case strengths and weaknesses, and the law before selecting a jury.”
As you can see, prosecutors take the mindset that they will win their case against you, even over something as small as jury selection. Take heed from our Philadelphia burglary, robbery, and theft defense lawyers: the prosecutor assigned to your case wants to get a conviction.
Prosecutors not only adopt this approach with jury selection but at every critical point during the process, including:
- Arguing against your motions
- Direct and cross-examinations
- Getting additional evidence from police
- Opening and closing statements
- Pre-trial preparation
- And more
Regardless of what they try to do, you can best defend yourself with Philadelphia burglary, robbery, and theft defense lawyers. Remember, you have the right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty, even if it does not feel that way.
Prosecutors hold the burden of proof, not you!
Shuttleworth Law PC will hold them to this standard throughout the entire length of your case. You will not be left wondering if the Commonwealth or police violated your rights. If we discover misconduct or other evidence that you are not receiving your due process, count on our firm to raise these issues at the appropriate moment.
Get Legal Representation as Soon as Possible
It is essential to hire Philadelphia burglary, robbery, and theft lawyers as soon as possible. The more time you allow for Shuttleworth Law PC to defend your case before your next hearing, the better your outcome could be. We have several tools and tactics available that most people do not even realize exist!
Here are a few strategies that we might use to beat your charges:
Possible Pre-Trial Opportunity #1. Motion to Dismiss
One effective way to win a case is to file a Motion to Dismiss (MTD) and convince the judge that the Commonwealth has failed to prove its case against you. Essentially, you ask them to rule in your favor based on the evidence. The judge will either grant or deny the motion.
Your Philadelphia burglary, robbery, and theft defense lawyers can file an MTD on the following grounds:
- Defective charging documents
- Failure to provide a speedy trial
- Lack of due process
- Lack of evidence
- Lack of jurisdiction
- Statute of limitations expired
- Other valid reasons that apply to your case
If your motion is granted, all charges will be thrown out. However, that is not always the final destination of your legal troubles. Sometimes the Commonwealth will refile charges and correct their original mistakes. That is why it is critical that you work with Shuttleworth Law PC to keep fighting for your rights.
Possible Pre-Trial Opportunity #2. Suppression of Evidence
Another motion that we may submit is a Motion to Suppress Evidence. This is sometimes called a Motion to Exclude Evidence. This is usually accomplished during the pre-trial phase of your case. It basically asks the judge to “throw out” evidence when law enforcement conducts an unreasonable search or seizure.
It may be impossible for the Commonwealth to prove all the alleged crime elements when the Motion to Suppress is successful. Then, your Philadelphia burglary, robbery, and theft defense lawyers may follow up with a motion to dismiss and get your case thrown out entirely.
Reasons that we have given for motions to suppress or exclude evidence in the past include:
- Evidence was illegally obtained
- Violation of chain of custody
- Statements that are obtained unlawfully
- And more
When Shuttleworth Law PC files a motion to suppress evidence, the court will set a hearing date so that both sides can make their arguments. Then, the judge will render a decision on the motion. The relevant evidence will not be used against you if they grant it.
Final Opportunity: Arguments at Trial
If your case does go to trial, you will want Philadelphia criminal trial defense lawyers with a strong track record of persuading the jury to find their clients not guilty. Here is the thing to understand to underscore the importance of this strategy: you do not have to prove your innocence. You only have to show that the prosecutor cannot that you’re guilty… beyond a reasonable doubt.
This burden is very heavy but a worthy endeavor when your entire life and future are on the line. Your Philadelphia burglary, robbery, and theft defense lawyers at Shuttleworth Law PC will hold this line with you.
The prosecutor may even try to tell the jury to trust their instincts. However, they need to do more than that to get a conviction. There must be no reasonable doubt to determine that you committed a crime in jurors’ minds. Otherwise, you should walk away free.
Start Protecting Yourself with Your Free Case Evaluation
Your Free Case Evaluation is a chance for you to discuss your or your loved one’s legal situation with a Philadelphia burglary, robbery, and theft defense lawyers at no cost. Shuttleworth Law PC’s legal team will learn more about the situation you are facing and offer helpful feedback.
At that point, you may like what Brad has to say, and if you would like to hire him, we will start preparing for your representation. You can count on us to hit the ground running from the moment we formalize this aspect of your case.
Shuttleworth Law PC cares about protecting and asserting your rights no matter what circumstances lead to your arrest. Reach out, and trust a legal team that will stand in the ring of fire with you.
Call Shuttleworth Law PC Now
We are ready to help you move toward an informed position and defend your rights. Give the Philadelphia burglary, robbery, and theft defense lawyers at Shuttleworth Law PC a call now for Your Free Case Evaluation at (215) 774-1371, or message us via the intake form below.