Burglary Lawyer in Lancaster, PA

A burglary conviction in Pennsylvania can change your life forever. A single mistake, misunderstanding, or false accusation could lead to years in prison and a permanent criminal record.

In Lancaster, prosecutors pursue burglary cases aggressively, usually treating them as crimes of violence even when no one was hurt. That’s why having a lawyer who is familiar with the local courts and the intricacies of PA burglary law can make all the difference.

Stephen W. Grosh, our criminal defense attorney, draws on over 15 years of experience defending clients accused of serious property crimes across Lancaster County. Our legal team can investigate every detail, from police reports to surveillance footage, to challenge unlawful searches, unreliable witnesses, or inflated charges. Our goal at the Law Office of Stephen W. Grosh is simple: to protect your record, your freedom, and your future.

What Exactly is Burglary Under the Law?

Burglary occurs when someone enters an occupied structure or building without authorization but with the intent to commit an offense inside. The law doesn’t require that a theft or assault occur, just that prosecutors believe you intended to commit one when you entered.

That’s where many cases turn unfair. You could be charged with burglary for something as minor as entering an unlocked property to retrieve your belongings or check on a family member. If police or prosecutors assume criminal intent, you could face felony charges.

What Are the Penalties for Burglary in Lancaster?

Burglary is classified as a felony in Pennsylvania, and penalties depend on whether anyone was present and what the alleged intent was:

• First-degree felony – entering a structure where someone is present, punishable by up to 20 years in prison and $25,000 in fines.
• Second-degree felony – entering an unoccupied building, carrying up to 10 years in prison and $25,000 in fines.

Even attempted burglary or related charges, such as criminal trespass, can lead to serious consequences, including probation, restitution, or a permanent record that will affect your future employment.

Can Burglary Charges in Lancaster Be Reduced or Dismissed?

Yes. The prosecution must prove intent, which is typically a subjective concept. Our Lancaster burglary lawyer, Stephen W. Grosh, can challenge that narrative using witness statements, text messages, security footage, or inconsistencies in police reports.

If prosecutors can’t establish clear intent, your charge could be reduced to trespassing or even dismissed. In some first-time cases, clients may qualify for Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD), which is a diversion program that allows for eventual expungement and a clean slate.

Early intervention matters most. The sooner you contact the Law Office of Stephen W. Grosh, the more options you’ll have to control how your case unfolds.

How Our Lancaster Burglary Defense Lawyer Can Help You

Stephen W. Grosh, our Lancaster, PA, burglary attorney, doesn’t just show up in court. He builds your defense from the ground up. That includes:

• Investigating the facts. Reviewing police reports, surveillance footage, and witness accounts for errors or inconsistencies.
• Challenging evidence. Filing motions to suppress illegally obtained statements or evidence.
• Establishing context. Showing that you had permission to enter, acted under a misunderstanding, or lacked criminal intent.
• Negotiating alternatives. Seeking plea reductions, ARD eligibility, or non-felony outcomes when appropriate.

Every detail matters. A phone record proving you texted the property owner before entering, or a witness confirming you had a key, can completely change how the court sees your case.

Speak to Our Lancaster Burglary Attorney Today

Whether your case involves a misunderstanding, a dispute gone too far, or a false accusation, you have legal options, and the Law Office of Stephen W. Grosh is here to help you use them. Schedule your confidential appointment with our Lancaster burglary lawyer by contacting us online or calling 717-208-4599.