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Possession of Burglary Tools - Utah Criminal Lawyer

A Utah criminal charge for possession of burglary tools is often accompanied by charges of theft, theft by receiving, or burglary. This combination of charges can potentially result in a felony conviction, jail or prison time, and thousands of dollars in fines. If you are facing criminal charges in Utah, it is critical to have an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side. Based in Salt Lake City, criminal defense attorney Stephen Howard has extensive experience defending clients facing criminal charges throughout Utah. He has a track record of achieving real results for his clients. Contact us today for an initial consultation.

Definition of "Burglary Tools" in Utah

"Burglary tools" are broadly defined under Utah's criminal code to include "any instrument, tool, device, article, or other thing adapted, designed, or commonly used in advancing or facilitating the commission of any offense under circumstances manifesting an intent to use or knowledge that some person intends to use the same in the commission of a burglary or theft."

Putting this definition into plain English, a burglary tool can anything that is used or intended to be used to commit a theft or burglary. For example, a screwdriver used to make a repair is just a screwdriver. If the screwdriver is used to force entry into a home or car, it is considered a burglary tool.

Simply being in possession of such a tool does not make you guilty of a crime. A critical element of the crime of possession of burglary tools is the intent that the item be used to commit a theft or burglary. All criminal defendants are entitled to a presumption of innocence. If the required intent cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt, the jury must find you not guilty at trial.

Consequences for a Conviction for Possession of Burglary Tools in Utah

The crime of possession of burglary tools in Utah is a class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and $1900 in fines and surcharges. But it is common for a person to be charged with possession of burglary tools after police find him with tools such as a screwdriver or crowbar in an area where a burglary has recently taken place. In such cases, the person may also be viewed as a prime suspect of the burglary or theft itself. If police find sufficient evidence, a prosecutor may file additional misdemeanor or felony charges for burglary, theft, theft by receiving, or burglary of a vehicle. Penalties for these charges can include thousands of dollars in fines and extended jail or prison terms.

Finding a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Salt Lake City, Utah

If you have been charged with possession of burglary tools, you should have an experienced and effective Utah defense attorney on your side. Stephen Howard has achieved not guilty verdicts or dismissals for clients facing criminal charges for burglary, robbery, theft, and other serious crimes in Utah. Contact us now to schedule an initial consultation and case analysis.


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Serving Salt Lake, Davis, Weber, Utah, Cache, Tooele, Summit, Box Elder, and Wasatch Counties, and all of Utah.

Attorney Stephen Howard practices as part of the Canyons Law Group, LLC and Stephen W. Howard, PC.

Offices in Salt Lake and Davis Counties
560 South 300 East, Suite 200, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
952 S. Main St., Suite A, Layton, UT 84041

Call now to arrange for a confidential initial consultation with an experienced and effective Utah criminal defense lawyer.

In Salt Lake City, call 801-449-1409.
In Davis County, call 801-923-4345.

Stephen W. Howard, PC

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