Burglary Lawyers in Brisbane

If you’ve been charged with burglary in Queensland, it’s crucial to get immediate legal advice. Burglary is a serious offence that can carry significant penalties — including lengthy terms of imprisonment — and how your case is handled in the early stages can make all the difference.

At Cridland & Hua, we are experienced criminal defence lawyers who understand the complexities of burglary charges. We provide strategic, practical advice and robust representation to help you achieve the best possible outcome.

What Is Burglary Under Queensland Law?

Burglary is an offence under Section 419 of the Criminal Code (Qld). A person commits burglary if they:

• Enter or are in the dwelling of another person, and
• Do so with intent to commit an indictable offence (such as theft, assault, or property damage)

In plain terms, this offence involves unlawfully entering a home or residential property with the intention of committing another crime.

The law also provides for aggravated burglary, which carries harsher penalties and applies in situations where:

• The alleged offender is armed
• There is more than one offender involved
• Violence is used or threatened
• The property is occupied at the time

What Are the Penalties for Burglary?

Burglary offences are considered serious by Queensland courts. The maximum penalty for burglary is:

• 14 years’ imprisonment for basic burglary
• Life imprisonment for aggravated burglary involving violence or weapons

Whether you serve prison time depends on the specific circumstances, including:

• Whether the offence was planned or opportunistic
• Your criminal history (if any)
• Whether property was stolen or damage occurred
• Whether violence was used or threatened
• Whether there are mitigating circumstances, such as drug dependence or mental health concerns

Common Defences to Burglary Charges

Each case is unique. At Cridland & Hua, we carefully analyse the police evidence to identify flaws, inconsistencies, or legal technicalities that may assist your defence.

Possible legal defences to burglary include:

• Lack of intent: You did not intend to commit an offence when entering the property
• Mistaken identity: You were not the person involved
• Consent: You had permission to enter the premises
• No dwelling: The place entered was not legally considered a dwelling under the Criminal Code
• Alibi or unreliable witness evidence

In some cases, it may be in your interest to negotiate a lesser charge (such as trespass or unlawful entry) or argue for diversionary sentencing options such as drug or mental health court.

What To Do If You’ve Been Charged

Being charged with burglary is understandably distressing — but how you respond can shape the outcome. Here’s what to do:

• Do not speak to policewithout a lawyer present. What you say can be used against you.
• Seek legal advice immediately. Early intervention may stop charges from proceeding or reduce their seriousness.
• Preserve any evidence — texts, CCTV footage, alibi witnesses, or communications with the alleged complainant.

Cridland & Hua provides prompt, experienced legal advice and representation across all Brisbane courts. Whether you’ve been arrested, given a notice to appear, or charged with aggravated burglary, we can help.

Why Choose Cridland & Hua?

We are one of Brisbane’s most trusted criminal defence law firms, with decades of experience defending burglary and property-related offences.

✓ Extensive experience in burglary matters
✓ Proven track record of reduced charges and acquittals
✓ Tailored legal strategy for every client
✓ Available for urgent bail applications and court appearances
✓ Clear communication and fixed-fee options available

We don’t judge. We defend. Let us help you navigate the legal system with confidence.