Effective Criminal Defense For Burglary & Theft Charges

The negative effects of a property crime conviction can hurt you and your family for the rest of your life.

Just like any other type of crime in Louisiana, a conviction for burglary or any other property crime carries serious consequences, but you still have rights. As your Lafayette property crime lawyer, I can defend those rights vigorously and effectively. The law firm of Donald D. Cleveland, APLC, can work with you to find the help you need to get on with your life.

I Handle All Property Crime Types

I provide experienced and effective criminal defense services in cases involving:

• Burglary: Entering a building or structure without permission with the intent to commit a crime, usually theft
• Aggravated burglary: Burglary combined with a dangerous weapon or causing harm to a person, making it a more serious offense
• Unauthorized use of a movable: Using someone else’s property, such as a vehicle, without consent but without intent to permanently steal
• Car theft: Stealing or attempting to steal a motor vehicle, which is considered a felony in most cases
• Theft: Taking property that belongs to someone else without permission, which can be classified as a misdemeanor or felony depending on the value
• Robbery: Taking property directly from a person using force, intimidation or threats, which is always treated as a serious offense
• Arson: Deliberately setting fire to property, which can endanger lives and is treated as a felony
• Criminal damage to property (vandalism): Damaging or destroying someone else’s property intentionally, ranging from minor vandalism to major felonies

Even seemingly minor charges can have serious long-term consequences if you are convicted. As your property crimes attorney, I can help ensure your rights are protected and increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome.

Common Motives For Property Crimes

People commit property crimes for a variety of reasons. Drug and alcohol use often play a role in these types of crimes.

Regardless of your situation or the circumstances surrounding your crime, you are the accused, and your very future is at stake. The damage to your life, reputation and your family can be staggering. You need an attorney who will stand up and fight for your future, making sure your rights are protected and that you get the best deal possible so you can get on with your life.

The Role Of Intent In Property Crime Cases

Intent is a central factor in property crime cases. The prosecution must prove that the accused deliberately planned or knowingly committed the act. For example:

• Burglary versus trespassing: Entering a building is only burglary if there is intent to commit a crime.
• Theft versus unauthorized use: Using someone else’s property temporarily may be a lesser offense if the intent to permanently deprive is absent.
• Vandalism versus criminal damage: Intent to cause significant harm can elevate charges from a misdemeanor to a felony.

As an experienced property crimes lawyer, I assess whether intent can be reasonably disputed, which can reduce charges or penalties.

Navigating Plea Bargains In Property Crime Cases

Many property crime cases are resolved through plea bargains, which allow defendants to accept reduced charges or lighter sentences. Key aspects include:

• Reviewing evidence and identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
• Negotiating terms that minimize fines, jail time or long-term consequences
• Making sure agreements are fair and in the client’s best interest

A knowledgeable property crimes attorney can guide defendants through this process, explaining the legal implications and helping achieve the best possible resolution. Attempting to handle plea negotiations without legal support can lead to harsher sentences or missed opportunities for charge reductions.

Facing charges for burglary, car theft, arson or vandalism is serious. At Donald D. Cleveland, APLC, I can provide legal representation to protect your rights, challenge evidence and navigate plea options effectively.

You Deserve An Excellent Defense Attorney

I can meet with you evenings and weekends by appointment. Call 337-572-9874 now or contact my firm online.

Located near downtown Lafayette, I serve the parishes along I-10 from Jefferson Davis Parish to St. Martin Parish, and the parishes along I-49 from St. Landry Parish to St. Mary Parish.