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Criminal Lawyers for Break and Enter Charges

Break and enter offences in NSW are criminal offences under the Crimes Act 1900 (NSW) and can be prosecuted under a variety of sections of that Act. They are largely dealt with under sections 109 - 115 of the Act. One of the most common offences of this category is ‘break and enter with intent to commit a serious indictable offence’.

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Charged with A break and enter offence?

Facing a break and enter charge can be disorienting and overwhelming. In these moments of uncertainty, Faraj Defence Lawyers emerges as your trusted partner, offering a harmonious blend of professional acumen and personal care. We understand that every case is unique, and we're committed to crafting a robust defence strategy tailored to your specific situation.

Let our expert Break and Enter Lawyers assist you with your case and work towards a favourable outcome today.

Why choose Faraj Defence Lawyers for your Break and Enter Charge

Choosing the right legal representation can make all the difference when facing break and enter charges, at Faraj Defence Lawyers we stand out as the optimal choice for defendants seeking expert guidance and unwavering support. So what makes us different?

01

Free initial consultation

We understand the importance of an initial assessment, which is why we offer free consultations to discuss the specifics of your case.

02

Expert Defence Strategies

We craft meticulous defence strategies aimed at securing favourable outcomes, including aiming and securing Section 10 dismissals & non-convictions.

03

Unwavering Support and Guidance

Unwavering support and guidance from the beginning to the resolution of your case, ensuring you are informed and empowered throughout.

04

Negotiation Expertise

Our extensive knowledge on dealing with the prosecution has allowed us to develop expert negotiation strategies that will tip the scales in our favour.

05

Direct Access to Senior Criminal Lawyer

Direct access to a senior criminal lawyer who will oversee your case. Ensuring your matter is handled with the utmost expertise and attention it deserves.

06

Fixed Fees and Transparent Pricing

We believe in transparency. Our firm operates on fixed fees, providing clarity on costs from the outset. Eliminating any unexpected financial burdens.

What is the offence of Break and Enter?

In NSW, "break and enter" covers physically breaking into a property or entering through closed yet unlocked entry points. Opening a closed but unlocked door, window, or gate constitutes the "breaking" element. If followed by entering, it becomes a break and enter offence.

The most common offence we see is "break and enter with intent to commit a serious indictable offence," carrying a maximum sentence of 10 years. This offence occurs when a person breaks into a dwelling or building with the intention of committing a serious indictable offence. 

Under Section 112 of the Crimes Act 1900, a person who breaks and enters a dwelling and commits a serious indictable offence within, or commits such an offence and breaks out, can face a maximum penalty of 14 years imprisonment.

BREAK AND ENTER WITH INTENT TO COMMIT SERIOUS INDICTABLE OFFENCE

Section 113 prescribes that: “a person who breaks and enters any dwelling-house or otherbuilding with intent to commit any serious indictable offence therein is guilty of an offence.”

There is also an offence under section 112(1) of the Act which covers where the offenderactually commits the relevant serious indictable offence – referred to as ‘break and enter andcommit serious indictable offence’.

A ‘serious indictable offence’ is defined as an offence carrying a term of imprisonment of fiveyears or more, with the most common offence typically associated being stealing. However, this encompasses a wide range of offences from intimidation to sexual assault.

WHAT THE PROSECUTION NEEDS TO PROVE FOR S112/113

In cases under Section 112/113 of the Crimes Act 1900, the prosecution must establish, beyond reasonable doubt, the following elements:

  • You broke into and entered a residence or other building,

  • You did so with the intention of committing a serious indictable offence (for example: you intended on stealing property whilst inside or intimidating the homeowner).

Whilst ‘break and enter’ offences are commonly associated with forceful entry into a premises, at law ‘break’ merely means that the person has broken the seal of the property.

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

BREAK AND ENTER WHILE ARMED WITH A SERIOUS WEAPON

Section 114 of the Crimes Act 1900 criminalises ‘being armed with intent to commit indictable offence’. There are numerous offences created under this section, which also relate to breaking and entering. 

The presence of a weapon elevates the severity of the offence, and it introduces additional legal intricacies. Prosecution in such cases is tasked with proving not only the act of breaking and entering but also the possession of a weapon with the intent to commit an indictable offence.

What the Prosecution Needs to Prove for S114

The prosecution are required to prove, beyond reasonable doubt, that:

  • You are armed with any weapon or instrument with intent to commit an indictable offence,

  • Have in your possession, without lawful excuse, any implement of housebreaking or safe breaking, or any implement capable of being used to enter or drive or enter and drive a conveyance,

  • Have your face blackened or otherwise disguised or have in your possession the means of blacking or otherwise disguising your face with intent to commit an indictable offence, or

  • Enter or remain in or upon any part of a building or any land occupied or used in connection therewith with intent to commit an indictable offence in or upon the building.

What are the Penalties for Break and Enter Offences?

The maximum penalties for the different types of break and enter charges are as follows:

  • An offence under s113 (‘break and enter with intent to commit serious indictable offence’) carries a maximum penalty of up to 10 years imprisonment,

  • An offence under s112 (‘break and enter into any house and committing serious indictable offence’) carries up to 14 years imprisonment.

  • An offence under s114 (Being armed with intent to commit an indictable offence) carries up to 7 years imprisonment

However, it’s important to note that Table 1 offences are typically dealt with in the Local Court will deal with Table 1 offences, where the maximum penalty applicable is limited to only a maximum of 2 years imprisonment and/or an $11,000 fine. Instances of Table 1 offences include:

  • Section 114 offences

  • Section 113 offences where the offence is limited to stealing or damaging/destroying property

  • Section 112 offences where it only involves stealing or damaging property that is worth under $60,000.

In any other cases, the offences will be considered ‘strictly indictable’ and be required to proceed to the District Court. Maximum penalties increase where the offence is considered ‘aggravated’ or ‘specially aggravated’.

Penalties for Aggravated Break and Enter

Circumstances which will make the offence ‘aggravated’, include where the alleged offender:

  • was armed with an offensive weapon, or instrument,

  • was in the company of another person or persons,

  • used corporal violence on any person (i.e., violence involving someone’s body),

  • intentionally or recklessly inflicted actual bodily harm on any person,

  • deprived any person of their liberty, or

  • knew that there was a person, or persons, in the place where the offence is alleged to be committed.

Where the offence is aggravated, the maximum penalty rises to 14 years imprisonment (forsection 113) and 20 years imprisonment (for section 112).

Penalties for Specially aggravated Break and Enter

Circumstances which will make the offence ‘especially aggravated’, including where the alleged offender:

  • intentionally wounds or intentionally inflicts grievous bodily harm on any person,

  • inflicts grievous bodily harm on any person and is reckless as to causing actual bodily harm to that or any other person, or

  • is armed with a dangerous weapon.

Where the offence is specially aggravated, the maximum penalty rises to 20 years imprisonment (for section 113) and 25 years imprisonment (for section 112).

Apart from a full-time custodial sentence, you may also be eligible for the following penalties:

  • S10(1)(A) dismissal.

  • Conditional release order without conviction.

  • Conditional release order with conviction.

  • Fine.

  • Community corrections order. 

  • Intensive corrections order.

At Faraj Defence Lawyers, we specialise in Break and Enter charges and can help you formulate a strong legal defence strategy that will provide the best chance to avoid any custodial sentence or receive a non-conviction penalty.

Speak to an Expert Break and Enter Lawyer Today!

Don't let the weight of a break and enter charge cast a shadow over your future. At Faraj Defence Lawyers, our team of expert lawyers is ready to stand with you, offering a blend of professional legal guidance and genuine personal support. Seize control of your situation and secure the representation you deserve.

Reach out to us today, and let's chart a path towards safeguarding your rights and restoring your peace of mind. Call us at (02) 8896 6034 today for free advice or book in your free initial consultation at no obligation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Faraj Defence Lawyers is a Sydney based law firm specialising in criminal and traffic law matters.

How long do you go to jail for Breaking and Entering in Australia?

  • An offence under s113 (‘break and enter with intent to commit serious indictable offence’) carries a maximum penalty of up to 10 years imprisonment,

  • An offence under s112 (‘break and enter into any house and committing serious indictable offence’) carries up to 14 years imprisonment.

  • An offence under s114 (Being armed with intent to commit an indictable offence carries up to 7 years imprisonment

  • Where the offence is aggravated, the maximum penalty rises to 14 years imprisonment (for section 113) and 20 years imprisonment (for section 112).

  • Where the offence is specially aggravated, the maximum penalty rises to 20 years imprisonment (for section 113) and 25 years imprisonment (for section 112). What are the sentencing guidelines for Break and Enter Charges?What are my options in court for a Break and Enter offence?Can I be charged for break and enter if I didn’t steal anything?What are the possible defences for break and enter?Is it breaking and entering if the premise was unlocked?

What are the sentencing guidelines for Break and Enter Charges?

In sentencing offenders for ‘break, enter and steal’ offences under section 112(1), the court has developed a guideline judgement of factors they will consider.Guideline judgments are decisions by the court to provide judges or Magistrates with guidance in relation to how they ought to sentence offenders.

Factors to be considered include whether:

  • the offence is the result of professional planning, organisation, and execution,

  • the offender has a prior record particularly for like offences,

  • the offence is committed at premises of the elderly, the sick or the disabled,

  • the offence is accompanied by vandalism and by any other significant damage to property,

  • it is committed in a series of repeat incursions into the same premises,

  • the value of the stolen property to the victim (whether that value is measured in terms of money or in terms of sentimental value).

It is also notable whether the offence was committed at a time when it was likely that the premises would be occupied (particularly at night), the trauma suffered by the victim, and whether force was used or threatened.What are my options in court for a Break and Enter offence?Can I be charged for break and enter if I didn’t steal anything?What are the possible defences for break and enter?Is it breaking and entering if the premise was unlocked?

What are my options in court for a Break and Enter offence?

When charged with break and enter offences, you can either enter a plea of guilty or not guilty to the charge if you believe that you did not commit the offence.

We will assess the evidence in your case to advise of your strengths in successfully defending the matter and in other cases, having the charge dismissed early.

If you plead guilty to the offence, your matter will proceed to sentencing where the court will issue a penalty for the offences which can either result in a non-conviction or conviction.

If you plead not guilty, your matter will proceed to a defended hearing or trial, whereby we will challenge the prosecution case to have you found not guilty and the charge be dismissed.Can I be charged for break and enter if I didn’t steal anything?What are the possible defences for break and enter?Is it breaking and entering if the premise was unlocked?

Can I be charged for break and enter if I didn’t steal anything?

The short answer - yes. For the prosecution to prove a break and enter, they need to prove beyond a reasonable doubt, the following:

  • You broke into and entered a residence or other building,

  • You did so with the intention of committing a serious indictable offence (for example: you intended on stealing property whilst inside or intimidating the homeowner).

‘committing a serious indictable offence’ does not just mean stealing property, it can also mean to intimidate, damage or inflict harm etc.

Essentially, ‘breaking in’ to the dwelling will suffice in proving the elements.What are the possible defences for break and enter?Is it breaking and entering if the premise was unlocked

What are the possible defences for break and enter?

Break and enter offences can be successfully defended in two ways.

  • The police agree, through representations of your lawyer to have the charge dismissed early; or

  • The court finds you not guilty of the offence.

At Faraj Defence Lawyers, we look at the evidence closely to determine the best case scenario for our client and whether there are any grounds to have the charges dismissed early, to save our clients time, stress and legal costs.

If the police do not withdraw the charge early and your matter needs to be defended in court, the following defences can be raised:

  • Self defence

  • You did not in fact, break into the property (false allegation, you were allowed into the property)

  • You did not intend to break into the property

  • Duress or necessity

  • Mental illness

  • Events that occurred in the course of every-day life (accidents). Is it breaking and entering if the premise was unlocked?

Is it breaking and entering if the premise was unlocked?

This will depend on the specific circumstances of the case. Generally, if the door to a dwelling is unlocked and closed, then opening the door and entering the premises will constitute “breaking and entering.”

If the window or door is already open, then there can be no instance of “breaking” and the offence cannot be proven against you beyond a reasonable doubt.

Charged with a criminal or traffic offence? First consultation free. Arrange a conference with us today

Book Here
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