Theft, Criminal Damage and Burglary Solicitors
Have you been accused of theft, burglary or criminal damage?
Our defence lawyers have extensive experience in helping people with these kinds of cases and can advise you at every point in the process
Contact us today in London (West Drayton) on 01895 449288 or in Hertfordshire (St Albans) on 01727 840900 or email us at info@wellsburcombe.co.uk.
What can we help you with?
Theft and Robbery Charges
Theft
Theft is the act of dishonestly taking another person’s property without their consent with the intention to permanently dispossess them of it. Theft can encompass such matters as taking items or money from another person, from a shop or from an employer.
Theft is classified as an ‘either way offence’, which means that it can be heard in the Magistrates’ or Crown Court, which usually depends on the value of the property that has been stolen.
Sentences vary, but theft can carry up to 14 years’ imprisonment.
Robbery
Robbery is when force or threats are used against a person to commit a theft and includes:
- Muggings
- Commercial robberies
- Bank robberies
- Robberies at knife point/gun point
Robbery is a very serious offence. Unlike theft, it will always be dealt with in the Crown Court. Sentences are dependant on the circumstances of each individual case, but it carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.
Our defence lawyers have substantial experience in dealing with theft and robbery cases. We can provide you with expert advice and robust representation throughout the case.
Contact us today for a free initial consultation in London, West Drayton on 01895 449288 or in Hertfordshire, St Albans on 01727 840900 or by email.
Burglary Charges
Burglary is the act of entering a building as a trespasser with the intent to commit a crime such as stealing property, causing someone harm or causing damage to the building or its contents. Like theft, burglary is known as an ‘either way’ offence, which means it can be dealt with in the Magistrates’ or Crown Court, though residential burglaries are almost always dealt with at the Crown Court, as they are understandably considered to be more serious. Burglary carries a maximum of 10 years’ imprisonment, 14 years if it took place in someone’s home and life if you were found in possession of a firearm.
Our expert defence lawyers have extensive experience helping people accused of burglary. We will help you understand your situation and provide robust representation throughout your case.
Contact us today for a free initial consultation in London, West Drayton on 01895 449288 or in Hertfordshire, St Albans on 01727 840900 or by email.
Criminal Damage & Vandalism Charges
Criminal damage is the intentional or reckless damage of property owned by another person. It is also includes cases referred to as vandalism. The damage does not need to be permanent it simply needs to affect the value or structure of the property.
Sentences depend on a number of factors involved in the case including:
- The extent of the damage
- Whether the damage is permanent or visible
- Who owns the property
- Whether the damage was intentional
- Whether someone was injured as a result of the criminal damage
As a general guide, criminal damage not exceeding £5,000 carries a maximum six month prison sentence, although most of these cases result in financial penalties or community orders. Damage exceeding £5,000 carries a maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment.
Our experienced defence lawyers have dealt with numerous criminal damage cases and can provide expert advice.
Contact us today for a free initial consultation in London, West Drayton on 01895 449288 or in Hertfordshire, St Albans on 01727 840900 or by email.