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McGuire Law

Columbia Burglary Defense Lawyer

Burglary charges in Columbia, South Carolina carry severe penalties that can alter the course of your entire life. Whether you're facing first-degree burglary with potential life imprisonment or third-degree charges, the stakes couldn't be higher. South Carolina prosecutors aggressively pursue convictions, and without experienced defense counsel, you face an uphill battle against the full weight of the criminal justice system.

Burglary Arrests Require Immediate Defense - Call Now for Free
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Available 24/7 - Immediate Response for Burglary Arrests

Attorney Matt McGuire

The moments after a burglary arrest are critical. Evidence must be challenged, witness statements scrutinized, and constitutional violations identified before the prosecution builds an unassailable case. Every hour you wait gives prosecutors more time to solidify their position against you.

Matthew McGuire has defended burglary cases throughout Richland County for over 30 years, understanding exactly how Columbia Police Department and the Richland County Sheriff's Office build these cases—and how to dismantle them. With offices in Columbia and availability 24/7/365, McGuire Law responds immediately when you need defense against burglary charges.

The Legal Expertise of McGuire Law

Burglary cases hinge on technical legal elements that experienced defense attorneys know how to challenge. Our track record of defending property crimes in Richland County courts gives Columbia clients the strategic advantage they need.

Criminal Defense Focus

Over 30 years exclusively practicing criminal defense in South Carolina courts. This singular focus means deep expertise in defending burglary charges and understanding prosecutor tactics.

Trial Experience

Extensive trial experience defending burglary charges before Richland County juries. We're always prepared to take your case to trial when that's what it takes to protect your freedom.

Evidence Suppression Success

Specialized knowledge in challenging burglary evidence through motions to suppress. We've successfully excluded illegally obtained evidence, resulting in dismissed charges and acquittals.

Bail and Bond Advocacy

Aggressive representation at bond hearings to secure your release while your burglary case proceeds. We fight for reasonable bond conditions that let you maintain your life.

Sentencing Advocacy

When cases don't go to trial, we fight aggressively at sentencing to minimize penalties. Our mitigation strategies have helped numerous clients avoid maximum sentences.

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Burglary Charges We Defend

From first-degree burglary to criminal trespass, we provide aggressive defense for all property crime charges in Columbia and throughout Richland County.

First-Degree Burglary

The most serious burglary charge in South Carolina, involving entry into a dwelling at night. First-degree burglary carries up to life imprisonment and requires the most aggressive defense.

Second-Degree Burglary

Entry into a dwelling during daytime or non-dwelling structures at any time with intent to commit a crime. Carries up to 15 years in prison.

Third-Degree Burglary

Entry into any building or structure with intent to commit a crime. While less severe, still carries up to 5 years imprisonment and creates a permanent criminal record.

Breaking and Entering

Unlawful entry into buildings without permission. We challenge identification, prove lack of criminal intent, and contest evidence of actual entry.

Criminal Trespass

Entering or remaining on property after being warned. Often defensible when proper notice wasn't given or entry was lawful.

Possession of Burglary Tools

Having tools with intent to use them for burglary. We challenge evidence of intent and establish legitimate purposes for possessing common tools.

Attempted Burglary

Taking substantial steps toward committing burglary. We challenge whether actions actually constituted attempted burglary under South Carolina law.

Vehicle Burglary

Breaking into vehicles with intent to commit theft. We challenge identification, ownership claims, and evidence of actual entry into vehicles.

First-Degree Burglary Carries Life Imprisonment

South Carolina treats burglary of occupied dwellings at night extremely seriously. Aggressive defense representation is essential.

McGuire Law's Core Values

When you're arrested for burglary, you need attorneys who respond immediately and fight relentlessly. Our values ensure every client receives the urgent, personalized defense their case demands.

24/7 Immediate Response

Burglary arrests don't wait for business hours. We're available around the clock to respond to arrests and begin building your defense within hours of your call.

Aggressive Advocacy

We fight hard for our burglary defense clients. Whether challenging evidence, negotiating with prosecutors, or presenting your case to a jury, we advocate aggressively for your freedom.

Transparent Communication

We believe in honest, straightforward communication about your burglary case. We'll tell you what to expect, what your options are, and what we recommend based on 30+ years of experience.

Personal Attorney Access

You'll work directly with Matt McGuire, not paralegals or junior associates. Your calls and emails get personal attention from experienced counsel who knows your case.

Complete Cost Transparency

We provide clear fee structures and discuss costs upfront. You'll understand exactly what your defense will cost with no hidden fees or surprises.

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Defense Strategies for Burglary Charges

Every burglary charge has weaknesses that can be exploited by experienced defense counsel. We use every available tool to challenge the prosecution's case.

Challenging Intent

Burglary requires proof of intent to commit a crime inside. We challenge prosecutors to prove you intended to commit theft or another crime, not just that you entered.

Identity Defense

Many burglary cases rely on circumstantial evidence or unreliable witness identifications. We scrutinize identification procedures and challenge weak evidence.

Consent or Permission

If you had permission to enter the property, there's no burglary. We establish consent through witness testimony, prior relationships, and documentary evidence.

Fourth Amendment Violations

Challenging illegal searches that produced evidence against you. If police violated your rights, that evidence gets suppressed and can't be used at trial.

Alibi Defense

Establishing you were elsewhere when the burglary occurred through witness testimony, surveillance footage, electronic records, or other evidence.

Challenging "Entry"

Burglary requires actual entry into a structure. We challenge whether entry actually occurred when evidence is ambiguous or circumstantial.

The McGuire Law Difference

Burglary charges demand attorneys who understand the technical elements of the crime and know how to challenge each one. Matt McGuire's decades of experience defending property crimes means he knows exactly where to attack the prosecution's case.

Three Decades of Criminal Defense

Over 30 years defending criminal charges throughout South Carolina, including countless burglary cases in Richland County courts. This experience translates directly to better outcomes.

Same-Day Response Guarantee

When you're facing burglary charges, every hour counts. We guarantee same-day response to all inquiries—even on weekends and holidays when arrests often occur.

Richland County Court Experience

Decades of experience in Richland County courts gives us deep familiarity with local prosecutors, judges, and court procedures that benefits every client.

Results-Driven Representation

We're focused on outcomes that matter—dismissed charges, acquittals, reduced sentences, and protecting your future from permanent criminal records.

Constitutional Rights Protection

We scrutinize every aspect of your arrest for Fourth Amendment violations, Miranda violations, and other constitutional breaches that can result in suppressed evidence.

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Consequences of Burglary Convictions

Burglary convictions create permanent criminal records with severe consequences that extend far beyond prison time.

Criminal Penalties

  • First-degree burglary: Up to life imprisonment
  • Second-degree burglary: Up to 15 years in prison
  • Third-degree burglary: Up to 5 years in prison
  • Substantial fines and court costs

Collateral Consequences

  • Permanent criminal record affecting employment
  • Professional license revocation or denial
  • Housing application denials
  • Firearm rights permanently lost

Burglary Creates a Permanent Felony Record

Even third-degree burglary is a felony that follows you forever. Aggressive defense is your best protection.

Immediate Action Steps After Burglary Arrest

The first hours after a burglary arrest are critical. These steps protect your rights and strengthen your defense.

Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent

Don't make any statements to police without an attorney present. Anything you say will be used against you, even seemingly innocent explanations.

Contact McGuire Law Immediately

Call (888) 499-5738 within hours of arrest. Early intervention by experienced counsel can make a significant difference in your case outcome.

Don't Consent to Searches

Police may ask to search your home, vehicle, or belongings. Politely decline—if they had the right to search, they wouldn't need your consent.

Document Everything

Write down everything you remember about the arrest, including officer names, what was said, and how you were treated. This information is critical for your defense.

Preserve Alibi Evidence

If you have evidence you were elsewhere when the alleged burglary occurred, secure it immediately—witness contacts, receipts, surveillance footage, phone records.

Comply with Bond Conditions

Once released on bond, follow all conditions exactly. Any violation can result in revocation and return to jail while your case is pending.

Frequently Asked Questions

Burglary charges create urgent questions that need experienced answers. Here are the concerns we hear most often from Columbia clients facing property crime allegations.

What's the difference between burglary and robbery?

Burglary involves entering a structure with intent to commit a crime—the crime doesn't have to be completed. Robbery involves taking property directly from a person using force or threats. Different charges carry different penalties.

Can I be charged with burglary if nothing was stolen?

Yes. Burglary doesn't require completed theft—only entry with intent to commit a crime. You can be charged with burglary even if you changed your mind and left without taking anything.

What if I had permission to be in the building?

Permission to enter is a complete defense to burglary. If you can establish you had consent from the owner or someone with authority, there's no burglary. We gather evidence to prove authorized entry.

Is first-degree burglary always a violent crime?

No. First-degree burglary in South Carolina is burglary of a dwelling at night. No violence is required—the elevated charge is based on time and location, not actual harm to anyone.

Can burglary charges be reduced?

Often yes. Through negotiation and challenging evidence, we frequently secure reduced charges. First-degree can become second-degree; burglary can become trespass. Reduced charges mean reduced penalties.

Will I go to prison for burglary?

Not necessarily. Many factors affect sentencing including prior record, specific circumstances, and quality of your defense. Alternatives like probation are possible, especially for third-degree burglary.

How much does burglary defense cost?

Defense costs vary based on charge severity, case complexity, and whether trial is likely. We provide clear fee structures upfront with no hidden costs. Call for free to discuss your specific situation.

Can a burglary conviction be expunged?

Generally no. Burglary is a serious felony that typically cannot be expunged in South Carolina. This is why aggressive defense to avoid conviction is so critical.

Matt McGuire - Attorney

About South Carolina Attorney Matt McGuire

Matt McGuire South Carolina Criminal Defense Personal Injury Family Law Attorney

With over 30 years of experience defending South Carolina, McGuire Law provides elite legal representation with national recognition. McGuire Law has grown from a small practice into one of the most trusted law firms in South Carolina. We understand that legal issues can be overwhelming, whether you're facing criminal charges, dealing with injuries from an accident, or navigating family law matters.

McGuire Law is committed to each client's unique situation, and we don't believe in boilerplate solutions. Every case requires careful analysis, strategic planning, and aggressive representation. Our firm combines over 30 years of experience with cutting-edge legal strategies to achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients.

McGuire Law serves all 46 South Carolina counties. We know these counties, their courts, their legal communities, and most importantly, the people who live here. This local knowledge, combined with our legal expertise, gives our clients a significant advantage.

Matt McGuire received his B.A. from the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill and his J.D. from the University of South Carolina.

Matt has served as a law clerk for a State Circuit Judge, an Assistant Attorney General for the State of South Carolina, and an Assistant Solicitor in the Fifth Circuit Solicitor's Office.

Matt is a proud husband, father of two, and a long-time resident of Richland County, South Carolina.

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Get Started Today

When you're facing burglary charges in Columbia, you need more than just any attorney – you need Matt McGuire and McGuire Law.

Don't let another day pass without proper legal protection against burglary charges. Call McGuire Law now and experience the difference that personal, aggressive, and effective legal representation can make in protecting your freedom.

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Columbia Office

2001 Assembly Street, Suite 102-B
Columbia, SC 29201

(888) 499-5738

Contact McGuire Law Today

Don't let burglary charges destroy your freedom and future. Matt McGuire has defended property crime cases throughout Richland County for over 30 years. Call (888) 499-5738 now for immediate consultation—we're available 24/7/365 because burglary arrests don't wait for business hours.

"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing." – Edmund Burke