In Massachusetts, burglary is defined as the unlawful entry into a dwelling with the intent to commit a felony. This offense is codified under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 266, Section 14. The law distinguishes between armed and unarmed burglary, with varying penalties depending on the circumstances.
To secure a conviction for burglary in Massachusetts, the prosecution must prove the following elements beyond a reasonable doubt:
These elements are detailed in Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 266, Section 16.
Penalties for burglary in Massachusetts vary based on specific circumstances:
Penalties may increase for repeat offenders or if additional crimes are committed during the burglary.
With years of specialized experience, The Law Office of Matthew W. Peterson has established itself as the go-to Boston criminal defense attorney in Massachusetts.
Experienced Criminal Lawyers Ready to Fight for You
Boston Office
55 Union Street, Suite 400 Boston, MA 02108
617-295-7500
Salem Office
15 Church St, Suite 105 Salem, MA 01970
978-607-0034
Office Hours
Mondays – Fridays
24/7 Support
Saturdays – Sundays
10:00am – 2:00pm
Facing a burglary charge in Massachusetts is a serious matter that can lead to severe consequences, including lengthy imprisonment and a permanent criminal record. The legal system is complex, and the prosecution will aggressively pursue a conviction. Delaying action can result in lost evidence, missed opportunities for defense, and harsher penalties.
Take immediate action:
Don’t let a burglary charge define your future. Act decisively to protect your rights and freedom.
Burglary involves unlawful entry into a dwelling with intent to commit a felony, typically at night. Breaking and entering may occur during the day or night and doesn’t necessarily involve intent to commit a felony.
Yes. The key element is the intent to commit a felony upon entry, not the completion of the felony.
If entry is gained without force and without permission, it can still constitute burglary if there was intent to commit a felony inside.
Yes. Repeat offenders may face increased penalties, including longer prison terms, especially if the subsequent offense involves a firearm.
A dangerous weapon includes firearms and other objects that can cause serious harm or death. Possession of such a weapon during a burglary elevates the offense to armed burglary.
Experienced Criminal Lawyers Ready to Fight for You
Boston Office
55 Union Street, Suite 400 Boston, MA 02108
617-295-7500
Salem Office
15 Church St, Suite 105 Salem, MA 01970
978-607-0034
Office Hours
Mondays – Fridays
24/7 Support
Saturdays – Sundays
10:00am – 2:00pm
The Right Strategy to Win Your Criminal Case
Disclaimer: Although I am an attorney, I am not your attorney. Please do not rely on anything on our website as legal advice because any specific advice would depend on your situation. Any results posted on this page are not guarantees of outcomes in your case.
Our Locations
Boston Office
(Cheap parking! We validate parking at 136 Blackstone St, Boston, MA 02109 (Haymarket, Parcel 7 parking garage), $3 for three hours.)
Salem Office
Quick Links
The Right Strategy to Win Your Criminal Case
Disclaimer: Although I am an attorney, I am not your attorney. Please do not rely on anything on our website as legal advice because any specific advice would depend on your situation. Any results posted on this page are not guarantees of outcomes in your case.
Our Locations
Boston Office
(Cheap parking! We validate parking at 136 Blackstone St, Boston, MA 02108 (Haymarket, Parcel 7 parking garage), $3 for three hours.)
Salem Office
Quick Links