Burglary vs. Robbery - What is the Difference?

Burglary is generally defined as the unlawful entry onto someone else's property with the intent to commit a theft or felony therein, whereas robbery is generally defined as using force or intimidation to facilitate the taking of property from another person.  In most cases when someone is accused of breaking into a house that does not belong to them and committing a theft inside, charges of burglary in the second degree are usually filed.  If the person is armed during the commission of a burglary, the offense could be charged as burglary in the first degree, which is a very serious offense under Arizona law.  

The severity of robbery charges can likewise be affected by the facts surrounding the case including whether the alleged robber possessed a weapon (either real or simulated) or whether the individual was in the company of one or more accomplices when the robbery was committed.  Whether the underlying offense is a burglary or a robbery, the use of a gun or other weapon during the commission of the offense may permit the prosecutor to charge the crime as a dangerous offense.  Dangerous offenses are very serious under Arizona law and require mandatory prison time upon a conviction even for a first offense.

If you have been accused of burglary, theft, robbery or any dangerous offense, contact an experienced Criminal Defense Attorney in Phoenix today.