Brookline Breaking & Entering Defense Lawyer

Being arrested for breaking and entering in Brookline can lead to serious legal consequences, including:

• Felony or misdemeanor criminal record
• Jail time, probation, and hefty fines
• Difficulty finding employment or housing
• Permanent damage to your reputation

At Marin, Barrett & Murphy Law Firm, we provide aggressive defense strategies for individuals charged with breaking & entering in Brookline.

📞 Call (857) 229-2442 for a Free Consultation Today.

Breaking & Entering Laws in Massachusetts

Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 266, breaking & entering is classified based on:

• Time of the offense (daytime vs. nighttime)
• Intent (to commit a felony or misdemeanor)
• Whether force or deception was used

Types of Breaking & Entering Offenses

Breaking & Entering with Intent to Commit a Felony (M.G.L. c. 266, § 16 & 17)

• Entering a building, ship, vehicle, or dwelling
• Occurs at night (higher penalties) or during the day
• Felony charge with up to 20 years in state prison

Breaking & Entering with Intent to Commit a Misdemeanor (M.G.L. c. 266, § 18)

• Entering a structure with no intent to commit a felony
• Misdemeanor charge with up to 2.5 years in jail

Possession of Burglary Tools (M.G.L. c. 266, § 18A)

• Having tools intended for breaking and entering
• Felony charge with up to 10 years in state prison

Penalties for Breaking & Entering in Brookline

The consequences of a breaking & entering charge depend on the severity of the offense:

Felony Breaking & Entering (Nighttime or Felony Intent)

• Up to 20 years in state prison
• Significant fines and restitution
• Mandatory minimum sentences for repeat offenders

Misdemeanor Breaking & Entering (Daytime, Misdemeanor Intent)

• Up to 2.5 years in jail
• Fines up to $1,000
• Probation and community service

Other Consequences:

• Felony convictions affect job opportunities, housing, and firearm rights
• Immigration consequences for non-citizens
• Possible restitution to victims

Legal Defenses for Breaking & Entering Charges

At Marin, Barrett & Murphy Law Firm, we examine every angle to fight your charges:

• Lack of Intent – If you did not intend to commit a crime, we argue for a lesser charge or dismissal
• Mistaken Identity – We challenge false accusations or misidentification
• No Forced Entry – If you had permission to enter, we challenge the "breaking" element
• Illegal Search & Seizure – If police obtained evidence unlawfully, we move to suppress it

Statute of Limitations for Breaking & Entering Charges

• Misdemeanor Breaking & Entering: 6 years from the date of the alleged offense
• Felony Breaking & Entering: No statute of limitations – charges can be filed at any time

If you are facing an old charge, we review whether the statute of limitations applies to your case.

Brookline District Court – Handling Breaking & Entering Cases

If you are charged with breaking & entering in Brookline, your case will be heard at:

📍 Brookline District Court
Address: 360 Washington Street, Brookline, MA 02445
Phone: (617) 232-4660
Hours: Monday - Friday: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

The Brookline District Court manages all criminal cases, including breaking & entering charges.

Brookline Police Department Contact Information

For arrests and law enforcement inquiries, contact the Brookline Police Department:

📍 Address: 350 Washington Street, Brookline, MA 02445
Non-Emergency Phone: (617) 730-2222
Emergency: Dial 911

The Brookline Police Department investigates all breaking & entering incidents in the area.

Why You Need an Experienced Breaking & Entering Defense Attorney

Breaking & entering is a serious offense, but the right defense can make a difference. At Marin, Barrett & Murphy Law Firm, we:

• Examine all evidence for weaknesses
• Challenge illegal searches and improper procedures
• Negotiate for case dismissals or reduced charges
• Work to keep your record clean and protect your future

📞 Call (857) 229-2442 for a Free Consultation