What Are the Differences between Theft, Robbery and Burglary?

If you or someone you know is charged with a crime, or even if you feel it’s your civic duty to learn about the laws of our country, you may be wondering about the difference between a few similar terms that involve taking something that doesn’t belong to you. A criminal defense attorney in Fairhope, AL can give you information pertinent to your own situation, but continue reading for a quick breakdown

If you or someone you know is charged with a crime, or even if you feel it’s your civic duty to learn about the laws of our country, you may be wondering about the difference between a few similar terms that involve taking something that doesn’t belong to you. A criminal defense attorney in Fairhope, AL can give you information pertinent to your own situation, but continue reading for a quick breakdown

Theft

Any time you take someone else’s property from them without their consent and intend to deprive them of that thing permanently, it’s theft. This is one of the most common crimes.

Robbery

If you take something from a person by force or fear, it’s a robbery. It’s like theft, but you’re using violence or the threat of violence against a person. You could be taking items that belong to them personally or that they have control over, like cash at their place of employment.

Burglary

If you enter any structure or dwelling intending to commit a crime. Even if you don’t actually commit theft or anything else, you can still be charged with burglary. You don’t even have to be breaking into a house. It could be anything else, such as tents and other temporary structures. If you aren’t sure whether certain actions constitute burglary or another crime, a criminal law defense attorney in Fairhope, AL can give you more information.

If you have been charged with a crime in Daphne, Alabama, visit our law firm for a free consultation now!