Natick Breaking and Entering Defense Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been charged with Breaking & Entering (B&E) in Natick, MA, you may be facing severe criminal penalties, including jail time, heavy fines, and a permanent criminal record. Massachusetts takes B&E offenses very seriously, and a conviction can have long-term consequences on your career, housing, and reputation.

At the Marin, Barrett & Murphy Law Firm, we understand the complexities of Breaking & Entering charges and the fear that comes with facing criminal prosecution. Whether you've been falsely accused, made a mistake, or are dealing with a misunderstanding, we are here to build a strong defense and fight for the best possible outcome.

Understanding Breaking & Entering Charges in Massachusetts

Breaking & Entering is defined under M.G.L. c. 266, § 16 & § 18 as unlawfully entering a building, home, vehicle, or structure with the intent to commit a crime. The severity of the charge depends on factors such as:

• The time of day (Nighttime offenses often carry harsher penalties.)
• The intent behind the entry (Felony intent vs. misdemeanor intent.)
• The type of property (Residential homes vs. businesses vs. vehicles.)
• The presence of aggravating factors (Weapons, prior convictions, or harm to occupants.)

A Breaking & Entering charge does not require actual "breaking"—even opening an unlocked door or window without permission can lead to a criminal charge.

Types of Breaking & Entering Cases We Handle

At Marin, Barrett & Murphy Law Firm, we defend clients against all types of Breaking & Entering charges, including:

1. Residential Breaking & Entering
   • Unlawful entry into a home, apartment, or dwelling
   • Can be charged as a felony, especially if committed at night
   • Possible penalties: Up to 10 years in state prison or 2 ½ years in jail and/or fines
2. Commercial Breaking & Entering
   • Unlawful entry into a business, store, or commercial property
   • Often tied to theft, burglary, or destruction of property
   • Possible penalties: Up to 20 years in prison
3. Motor Vehicle Breaking & Entering
   • Entering a car, truck, or other vehicle without permission
   • May involve theft of personal belongings
   • Possible penalties: Up to 2.5 years in jail

Each case is unique, and early legal intervention is critical in avoiding severe consequences.

Examples of Breaking and Entering

Breaking and entering involves unlawfully entering or attempting to enter a property or structure. Here are some examples that can constitute breaking and entering:

• Reaching Through a Window: Gaining entry by extending your arm through an open or broken window.
• Lifting an Unlocked Window: Lifting an unlocked window and entering a building or structure without consent.
• Forcing a Door or Window Open: Using force to open a door or window to gain unauthorized access.
• Opening and Entering Through an Unlocked Door: Simply opening an unlocked door and entering a property without the owner's permission.
• Unlocking a Door with an Unauthorized Key: Using a key you don't have permission to use to unlock and enter a building or property.
• Manipulating a Lock or Locking Mechanism: Tampering with or bypassing a lock or security mechanism in an attempt to gain entry.

Penalties for Breaking & Entering in Massachusetts

Felony Breaking & Entering (Intent to Commit a Felony)

• Up to 20 years in state prison or 2 ½ years in jail
• Fines and restitution to the property owner
• Potential for a permanent felony record

Misdemeanor Breaking & Entering (Intent to Commit a Misdemeanor)

• Up to 6 months in jail
• Fines up to $200 and/or probation
• Possible mandatory community service

If the crime involves violence, firearms, or prior convictions, penalties may be enhanced, making a strong legal defense even more critical.

Defenses Against Breaking & Entering Charges

At the Marin, Barrett & Murphy Law Firm, we aggressively defend our clients by exploring all possible legal defenses, such as:

1. Lack of Intent
   To be convicted of B&E, the prosecution must prove that you intended to commit a crime once inside. If there was no criminal intent, Marin, Barrett & Murphy Law Firm can argue for the charges to be reduced or dismissed.
2. Mistaken Identity or False Accusations
   B&E cases often rely on witness testimony and surveillance footage, which may be unreliable. Marin, Barrett & Murphy Law Firm will challenge questionable evidence and fight to prove your innocence.
3. Consent or Authorized Entry
   If you had permission to enter the property but were later accused of breaking in, Marin, Barrett & Murphy Law Firm can present evidence proving your lawful presence.
4. Insufficient Evidence
   The prosecution must prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. If there are weaknesses in their case, Marin, Barrett & Murphy Law Firm will expose them in court.

Statute of Limitations for Breaking & Entering in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, the statute of limitations for most Breaking & Entering charges is 6 years. However, in serious felony cases, the timeline may be extended under certain conditions. If you are facing older allegations, we will examine whether your case should be dismissed based on the statute of limitations.

How a Breaking & Entering Conviction Can Affect Your Future

A conviction for Breaking & Entering can impact many aspects of your life, including:

• Employment Opportunities – Many employers will not hire someone with a criminal record.
• Housing & Rental Applications – Landlords conduct background checks that may disqualify applicants with a B&E conviction.
• College & Financial Aid Eligibility – Students may face disciplinary action or loss of scholarships if convicted.
• Professional Licensing – Doctors, nurses, lawyers, and other licensed professionals may lose their licenses over a criminal conviction.
• Deportation or Denial of Entry Into the United States: Non-U.S. Citizens can be deported if convicted.

By fighting your charges, we aim to protect your future and keep your record clean.

Local Legal Process for Breaking & Entering Cases in Natick, MA

Depending on the severity of the charge, your case may be handled at:

Natick District Court (Misdemeanor B&E Cases)
📍 600 Concord Street, Framingham, MA 01701
📞 (508)-620-9110

Middlesex Superior Court (Felony B&E Cases)
📍 200 Trade Center, Woburn, MA 01801
📞 (781) 939-2700

If you have been arrested for Breaking & Entering in Natick, do not speak to police or prosecutors without an attorney present.

Why Choose the Marin, Barrett & Murphy Law Firm?

• ✔ Aggressive, Results-Driven Defense – We fight tirelessly to get charges dismissed or reduced.
• ✔ Decades of Criminal Defense Experience – Our attorneys have a proven track record of success in Natick and Middlesex County courts.
• ✔ Personalized Legal Strategies – We tailor our defense to your unique case to achieve the best possible outcome.
• ✔ Strong Negotiation & Trial Skills – Whether through plea negotiations or courtroom litigation, we will protect your rights.