What are the degrees of burglary?

Answer 1

Burglary is unlawfully entering a building or a dwelling with the purpose of committing a crime once inside. If someone is in the building (such as the homeowner or renter) when the burglar unlawfully enters then it is burglary 1st degree. If nobody is in the building then it is burglary 2nd degree. It does not matter if the offender knew whether or not the home, apartment, or business had anyone inside.

Answer 2

It depends on where you are referring to. Burglary statutes can vary from state to state. Some jurisdictions only have 2 degrees, depending on whether the premises was occupied at the time of the offense or not. Others, break it down still further (e.g.- occupied or unoccupied - commerical or residential - daytime or nighttime - etc.) Each will have its own penalty attached to it.

Answer 3

It can mean varying things according to the wording of the statute by your state's legislature.

GENERALLY, it describes a criminal act that was committed while the residence, building, business, etc, was occupied at the time - especially during the hours of night.

Answer 4

This particular charge usually means that the offense was committed while someone was actually in the building or residence that was burglarized.

Answer 5

Minimum term: 3 yrs 4 months

Maximum term: 4 yrs 9 months