Busted for Burglary in Mississippi?

Here at McCormick Lawrence, PLLC, attorneys Cameron McCormick and Bay Lawrence have handled hundreds of burglary and theft cases—and we know the law inside and out. But in Mississippi, the word burglary can mean a whole lot more than just breaking into a house. Let’s break it down.

What Counts as Burglary?

Under Mississippi law, burglary basically means breaking into or out of a place with the intent to commit a crime.

• Breaking into a home (dwelling)— even if no one’s inside — can result in a 3 to 25 year prison sentence.
• Breaking in when people are home and terrorizing them? That crimes carries a minimum of 10 years.
• Already inside someone’s house and break out (literally busting through a door or wall)? That’s burglary too, and could be punishable by up to 10 years.
• Lawfully inside but break an inner door to commit a crime? That’s burglary, too, and also up to 10 years.

Burglary doesn’t have to be a house.

Breaking into a car, truck, or trailer— even a boat or railroad car — counts.

Breaking into a store, warehouse, or even a tent counts.

Breaking into a church or place of worship is treated more seriously, with up to 14 years in prison.

Burglary with Explosives is Bigger Trouble

If someone uses explosives (like nitroglycerine or dynamite) to crack open a vault or safe, that’s called burglary with explosives — and it carries a staggering 5 to 40 years behind bars.

Carrying Burglary Tools? That Alone Is a Crime.

Even if you never break in, just being caught with burglary tools (like crowbars, lock picks, or other specialized equipment) can land you up to 5 years in prison or up to 1 year in county jail.

What Are the Defenses to Burglary Charges?

Just because you’re charged with burglary doesn’t mean you’re guilty. Common defenses we explore include:

• Lack of intent — You didn’t intend to commit a crime when entering.
• Mistaken identity — You were wrongly identified or accused.
• Permission to enter — You were allowed to be there.
• No actual breaking or entering — The law requires specific elements that the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt.

At McCormick Lawrence, we dig deep into the facts, challenge the evidence, and fight to protect your rights. Every case has a defense — we help you find it.

Call Us Today — We’re Here to Defend You

Facing a burglary charge? Call us for a free consultation. We’ll break down your options, explain what the law really says, and fight hard to protect your rights and your future.