Burglary Lawyer Queens NY | SRIS, P.C.
Burglary Lawyer in Queens County (Queens), New York — Your Defense Strategy
Burglary in Queens County is a serious felony under New York Penal Law § 140.20-140.40, with penalties ranging from probation to 25 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for burglary charges in Queens Supreme Court. Our firm-wide experience includes 4,739+ documented case results. We offer 24/7 consultations.
New York Burglary Law and Penalties
Burglary is defined as unlawfully entering or remaining in a building with the intent to commit a crime inside. The specific degree and penalties depend on factors like the type of building, whether it is a dwelling, and whether anyone is present or injured. The charges are prosecuted in Queens County Supreme Court for felonies.
Last verified: April 2026 | Queens County Supreme Court | New York State Legislature
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has built a practice focused on complex criminal defense. We understand the severe consequences a burglary conviction can have on your future.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of New York’s burglary statutes, refer to the New York Penal Law (PEN) Article 140 on the state legislature’s website. For court procedures and information, visit the Queens County Supreme Court website.
Handling a Burglary Case in Queens
Queens County Supreme Court handles all felony burglary cases. New York’s 2020 bail reform eliminated cash bail for most non-violent felonies, meaning many defendants are released on their own recognizance or with conditions. An experienced Burglary Attorney Queens NY can challenge the prosecution’s evidence of unlawful entry and criminal intent from the start.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea in Supreme Court. Bail or release conditions are set.
- Discovery & Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney will review all evidence and may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Plea Negotiations: Your lawyer will negotiate with the District Attorney’s office, potentially seeking a reduction to a lesser charge.
- Trial: If no plea agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a jury trial where the prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence based on the degree of burglary and your criminal history.
Potential Penalties for Burglary in New York
In Queens County, burglary charges carry severe penalties, from a Class E felony up to a Class B violent felony, with prison sentences from 1.5 to 25 years.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burglary in the Third Degree (PEN § 140.20) | Class D Felony | Up to 7 years | Up to $5,000 | None directly | Permanent felony record, difficulty finding employment/housing |
| Burglary in the Second Degree (PEN § 140.25) | Class C Violent Felony | 3.5 to 15 years | Up to $5,000 | None directly | Violent felony record, mandatory post-release supervision |
| Burglary in the First Degree (PEN § 140.30) | Class B Violent Felony | 5 to 25 years | Up to $5,000 | None directly | Most severe violent felony record, lengthy parole |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Burglary Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of 4,739+ case results firm-wide with a high rate of favorable outcomes. Our approach is direct and focused on the specific details of your situation.
Our Approach to Burglary Cases
Our Burglary Law Firm Queens NY actively defends clients in Queens. While specific local case counts are not published, our firm-wide practice includes a significant volume of burglary and property crime defenses. We examine police reports for illegal searches, witness statements for inconsistencies, and forensic evidence for weaknesses. Every case is handled with a focus on protecting your rights and future.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Queens Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
New York Location — Buffalo/NY area
50 Fountain Plaza, Suite 1400, Office No. 142
Buffalo, NY 14202
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (838)-292-0003
By appointment only.
Our New York location serves clients with cases in Queens County courts. We are accessible via major routes like I-495 (LIE) and the Grand Central Parkway. If you need a Burglary Lawyer Queens NY near Jamaica, Flushing, Astoria, or other Queens neighborhoods, we provide representation. We serve communities including Jamaica, Flushing, Astoria, Long Island City, Forest Hills, Bayside, Jackson Heights, Rego Park, Elmhurst, Woodside, Corona, Rockaway Beach, Howard Beach, Ozone Park, and Fresh Meadows.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Burglary Defense FAQs
What is the difference between burglary and robbery in New York?
Yes, there is a major difference. Burglary involves unlawful entry into a building with intent to commit a crime inside. Robbery involves taking property from a person through force or fear. You can be charged with burglary even if you took nothing.
Can a burglary charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends on the facts and your history. For a third-degree burglary (Class D felony), a skilled attorney may negotiate a reduction to criminal trespass (a misdemeanor) or another lesser charge, especially for first-time offenders or cases with weak evidence of intent.
What are common defenses to a burglary charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent to commit a crime, mistaken identity, lawful right to be in the building, and illegal search and seizure by police that leads to the discovery of evidence. An attorney will identify the strongest defense for your case.
Is bail required for a burglary charge in Queens?
No, not always. Since 2020 bail reform, most non-violent felony burglary charges are eligible for release on your own recognizance or with non-monetary conditions. However, if the burglary involved a weapon or caused injury, bail may still be set.
How long does a burglary case take?
A felony burglary case in Queens Supreme Court can take from several months to over a year to resolve, depending on case complexity, evidence, and whether it goes to trial. The prosecution has 6 months under CPL § 30.30 to be ready for trial.
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Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.