Possession of Burglary Tools

Criminal Defense Lawyer for Arizona Possession of Burglary Tools Charges

Possession of Burglary Tools in Arizona is a Class 6 felony. These charges are often coupled with other classes of burglary charges, but do not have to be. This law is broad and comprehensive, in that there is no specific definition for what constitutes “burglary tools”. It is intended to cover any tool or instrument that can be “adapted” to be used to enable unlawful entry for the purpose of burglarizing property. This means that if the police suspect someone of intending to commit burglary, even though they never broke into the property, and police found a garage or kitchen utility tool or instrument in the accused’s possession, they could be arrested for a felony. This law also includes unlawful use, purchase, transfer, or possession of a key or master key with the intent to use it for auto theft.

The description is outlined in “A.R.S. 13-1505. Possession of burglary tools; master key; manipulation key; classification” (Paraphrased)

A person may be charged with “Possession of burglary tools, master key: or manipulation of a master key in the following situations:

1) They possessed a tool, instrument, or explosive or any other article that could be “adapted” or is “commonly used” to commit First Degree Burglary, Second Degree Burglary, or Third Degree Burglary with the “intent” to use or permit the use of the item (s) for the burglary; and/or

2). Buying, selling, transfer, possession, use or manipulation of an auto key or master key for the intent of committing auto theft, or unlawful entry into the auto to steal contents or any part of the auto. This section does not apply to those using a master key in the course of the person's lawful business or occupation, such as licensed vehicle dealers, auto manufacturers, or key makers who are engaged in the lawful and authorized business related to the vehicle, financing, or law enforcement.

A Possession of Burglary Tools conviction will expose a defendant to a maximum of up to 2 years in prison for a first-time offense. For repeat offenses, and burglaries that involve two or more aggravating factors, the prison sentence may extend upwards to 5.75 years in prison. Other penalties may include victim restitution; defendant’s property forfeiture; fines and fees, and other penalties ordered by the court.

If you were arrested or charged with Possession of Burglary Tools you should contact an experienced criminal defense attorney in Arizona who defends felonies on a regular basis. James Novak, of the Law Office of James Novak is a proven criminal defense attorney and proven trial lawyer. He is also a former Maricopa County Prosecutor. His Law Firm provides 100% defense services for criminal charges including possession of burglary tools. He defends burglary charges of all types on a regular basis, and will be able to provide a solid defense for your Possession of Burglary Tools Charges in Maricopa County. He will look to have unjustified criminal felony charges dismissed; or get the otherwise best outcome in your case such as negotiating for lesser charges, and less severe penalties. Call the Law Office of James Novak now at (480) 413-1499 for your free consultation!

*The Law Office of James Novak defends cases in Maricopa County, including Phoenix AZ. Mesa AZ. Tempe AZ. Chandler AZ, Gilbert AZ, Scottsdale AZ, and surrounding cities.