Break and Enter Lawyers
Central Coast

Expert criminal defence lawyers for Break & Enter Offences on the Central Coast and Newcastle.

Break and enter charges are serious offences in New South Wales. Notably, NSW has the highest full-time imprisonment rate for burglary, and break and enter offences across Australia. Whilst ‘break and enter’ offences are commonly associated with the forceful entry into a premises, at law, ‘break’ simply means that the person has broken the seal of the property.

This may be satisfied by physically breaking into a premises, as well as by opening a closed door or window and entering the property, even if it is unlocked.

It will not be considered a break and enter where the person has lawful authority to enter the premises, either by the consent of the owner, or due to their own rights in the premises.

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The Offence of Break and Enter in NSW

Where the serious indictable offence is stealing or intentionally or recklessly destroying or damaging property, and the value of the property does not exceed $60,000, it will be classified as a ‘Table 1’ offence. These can be dealt with summarily in the Local Court, unless elected to the District Court by either the prosecution or the accused person.

In the Local Court, the maximum penalty applicable is limited to 2 years imprisonment and/or a $11,000 fine. It is important you engage representation at this stage to afford yourself the best possible chance of keeping your matter in the Local Court.

However, in any other case, the matter will be considered ‘strictly indictable’ and will have to be dealt with in the District Court. A maximum penalty of 14 years imprisonment is then applicable.

Commonly in our jurisdiction, we see charges pursuant to section 112(1) of the Crimes Act 1900 (NSW), which states that it is an offence to break and enter any dwelling-house or other building and commit any serious indictable offence therein.

A serious indictable offence is an offence that carries a term of imprisonment of five years or more. For example, offences such as larceny, malicious damage, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and sexual assault.

Break & Enter Lawyers Central Coast and Newcastle - Conditsis Lawyers

Conditsis Lawyers Named Outstanding Legal Services Firm at the 2023 Central Coast Local Business Awards

These awards recognise outstanding businesses providing quality products or services on the Central Coast and are judged against specific criteria which includes information provided by each finalist, and their online presence.

We’re incredibly proud of our team, who deserve this recognition for their dedication to our clients, always setting the standard for exceptional service in our field.

Call us on 4324 5688 or complete our Contact Form to schedule a consultation.

Why Engage Conditsis Lawyers to Defend Your Break and Enter Charges?

If you have been charged with a break and enter offence, you need a specialist criminal defence lawyer who understands the complexities of these serious charges. Here’s why you should engage Conditsis Lawyers to represent you:

Experienced Criminal Defence Lawyers

At Conditsis Lawyers, we have a dedicated team of criminal defence lawyers with extensive experience in defending clients against break and enter charges. Since 1982, we have been defending the people of the Central Coast, Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, and the Hunter region, helping our clients achieve the best possible outcomes in all criminal law matters.

Thorough Defence Strategies

Our lawyers meticulously examine every detail of your case to identify potential defences to ensure no stone is unturned. These might include lack of intent, mistaken identity, or issues with how the police conducted the investigation. We will craft a comprehensive defence strategy designed to achieve the best possible outcome.

Proven Track Record in Criminal Law

With years of experience, we know how to handle even the most complex break and enter cases. Whether negotiating with prosecutors for a reduced charge or advocating in court, we use our expertise to work towards securing the best result for you.

Accredited Specialists

Manny Conditsis, Michal Mantaj and Natasha Konic are NSW Law Society Accredited Specialists in Criminal Law. To become this qualified, legal practitioners must pass through a complex, independent and objective accreditation process. It recognises them to have higher expertise than an ordinary lawyer or solicitor representing criminal law clients. Our criminal law team is regarded as one of the best in NSW with over 100 years of combined experience helping clients facing criminal charges.

Reducing Penalties and Avoiding Gaol Time

We are skilled at negotiating reduced sentences and exploring alternatives to imprisonment, such as rehabilitation programs, bail applications, or community service orders. Our goal is to protect your future by minimising the long-term impact of any charges.

Expert Guidance Through the Court Process

The legal process can be daunting, but with Conditsis Lawyers on your side, we’ll guide you every step of the way. From the initial charge to the court hearing, we will ensure your rights are protected and fight for the most favourable outcome.

Next Steps

If you or someone you know is facing break and enter charges, it’s crucial to get in touch with our team of criminal defence lawyers as soon as possible. We are here to help you navigate this challenging time with expert legal advice and unwavering support.

We’ve been defending the people of the Central Coast, Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, and the Hunter region since 1982, and have helped our clients to achieve the best possible outcomes in all criminal law matters. Contact our criminal law specialists on 02 4324 5688 or complete our contact form to arrange a free consultation today.

We are here to support you during this challenging time—24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Areas Of Criminal Law

If you are in trouble with the police or face criminal charges, you need an expert criminal lawyer on your side. It is critical to get the right advice and representation without delay. We can provide immediate assistance to you, including if you are being held at the police station or currently in a detention centre or gaol.

Led by NSW Law Society Accredited Criminal Law Specialists Manny Conditsis and Michal Mantaj, our team of criminal lawyers is regarded as one of the best in NSW, with over 150 years of combined experience helping clients facing criminal charges.

As one of two Trial Advocates, Manny Conditsis has a greater than 90% success rate in jury trials. He and Michal Mantaj are among only a few Trial Advocates to appear in murder and other serious crime trials in the Supreme and High Courts. The media regularly call upon both to comment on high-profile cases and issues relating to criminal and traffic law due to their reputation for professional excellence in legal practice.

In trouble with the law or going to court?

Don’t delay contacting us. The sooner we hear from you, the sooner we can begin our investigations.

Your first consultation is free. Call our office on 02 4324 5688 to book a private and confidential consultation with one of our criminal lawyers today.