A Utah criminal charge for possession of burglary tools is usually filed as a misdemeanor, but it is often accompanied by more serious charges felony charges of theft, theft by receiving, or burglary. This combination of charges can potentially result in 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. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation and see the difference the right attorney can make.

The best defense attorneys ask questions that police don’t.
Definition of โBurglary Toolsโ in Utah
โBurglary toolsโ are broadly defined under Utahโs criminal code to include โany 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.โ
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.
The best attorneys understand your case involves more than just what happens in court.

Consequences of Conviction – Possession of Burglary Tools
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 the Right Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you have been charged with possession of burglary tools, you should have an experienced and effective Utah defense attorney on your side. Contact us now to schedule an initial consultation. The right attorney can make all the difference.