Burglary Attorney In Polk County

Charged With Burglary And Unsure What Comes Next?

A burglary charge in Iowa can change the rest of your life. You may be worried about jail, a permanent felony record, and how this will affect your job and family. If your case is in Polk County, our team at Feld Law Firm is here to guide you through each step.

We focus on defending people accused of crimes, including serious property offenses. You might feel confused about what burglary actually means under Iowa law and whether the police or prosecution is seeing the full story. Our goal is to step in early, protect your rights, and work to put you in the best position possible. From our office in Des Moines, we represent clients facing charges here in the area. Services start at $1,000, and we are always open to discussing your situation and your options.

You can call (515) 996-4441 to talk with our team about what is happening in your case, or contact us online to schedule a consultation.

How We Defend Burglary Charges

When you are accused of burglary, you need more than someone who just reads the police report. You need a defense built on a careful investigation of the facts and the law. At Feld Law Firm, we take the time to listen to your side and examine what really happened before we start talking about strategy.

Our attorney brings prior experience as a private investigator. This background helps us dig into the details of your case, such as how officers collected evidence, whether surveillance footage actually shows what the report claims, and whether witnesses had a clear view. We work to identify gaps, inconsistencies, and constitutional issues that can become important in negotiations or at trial. We have handled hundreds of criminal cases in Iowa. That experience helps us understand how prosecutors typically build burglary cases, what issues judges focus on during bond and sentencing, and what options might realistically be on the table. While every case is different, this history gives us practical insight into what you may be facing in Polk County District Court.

Burglary allegations are often complicated. Sometimes there is a dispute about whether you had permission to be on the property, whether you actually entered the building, or whether you intended to commit any crime inside. We review reports, body camera footage when available, photos, and physical evidence with these questions in mind. We can also talk with potential witnesses you identify and explore whether there are text messages, calls, or digital information that help explain your side.

We know communication matters when you are dealing with serious charges. We work to treat clients like family, which for us means returning calls, explaining each step in clear language, and preparing you for court appearances. Our team includes Spanish-speaking support, so if you or a family member is more comfortable in Spanish, we can make sure nothing is lost in translation. If your case is in Polk County, we can help you understand how the local process usually unfolds and how your decisions now could affect your future. We strive to be both realistic and hopeful, focusing on what we can do together to move your case forward.

Burglary Charges & Penalties In Iowa

To understand your options, it helps to know what the state is accusing you of. In Iowa, burglary generally involves entering or remaining in an occupied structure without permission while intending to commit a crime inside. This is different from simple trespass, which usually does not involve an allegation of intent to commit another offense. The degree of burglary you are charged with depends on several factors. These can include whether anyone was present, whether the place is a home or business, and whether a weapon or injury is involved. Higher degrees can be very serious felonies with the possibility of lengthy prison sentences. Lower degrees can still lead to jail, probation, and a permanent record.

Accusations involving a residence where someone is present can lead to harsher potential penalties than a case involving an empty storage building. Allegations that a weapon was involved or that someone was hurt can increase the possible punishment even more. The specific charge affects not only sentencing but also bond, plea discussions, and how the case is viewed by the court. Even if you are not facing prison, a burglary conviction can have long-term effects. Employers, landlords, and schools often run background checks. A record involving a crime of dishonesty or a felony can make it harder to get or keep work and housing. For some people, immigration status and firearm rights can also be affected.

In Polk County, burglary cases are generally filed in the district court in Des Moines. Your case may involve multiple related charges, such as theft or criminal mischief, which can change the possible outcomes. We help clients walk through what each charge means, what penalties could apply, and how those interact in real life, not just on paper. Our role is to explain the law in terms you can understand, then use that knowledge to guide our investigation and defense strategy. We talk with you about your priorities, such as avoiding jail, limiting a felony record, or protecting professional licenses, and then keep those goals in mind throughout your case.

What To Do After A Burglary Arrest

The hours and days after an arrest can feel overwhelming. You might be trying to figure out where your loved one is being held, whether there is a bond, and what to say when people ask what happened. Taking a few careful steps can help protect your case from the start.

First, it is important to avoid discussing the facts of the case with law enforcement or anyone else until you have spoken with a lawyer. Statements made to officers, friends, or on social media can be used in court. Staying calm and exercising your right to remain silent is one of the most powerful protections you have. In Polk County, people who are arrested are typically taken to the Polk County Jail in Des Moines. An initial appearance in Polk County District Court usually happens soon after, often by video from the jail. At that hearing, the judge considers bond, conditions of release, and sometimes no-contact orders. Having a defense lawyer involved before or at this stage can help you understand what is happening and what to expect.

If you are on the outside looking for a loved one, we can help you sort through where they are in the process and what is likely to come next. We can review available paperwork, such as complaints and arrest records, and talk with you about realistic next steps. Once we are retained, we can begin requesting police reports and other discovery as permitted, and we can start preparing for upcoming hearings.

Here are practical steps you can take right now:

• Stay off social media and avoid posting anything about the incident or the people involved.
• Write down what you remember about the events leading up to the arrest while it is still fresh.
• Gather contact information for any witnesses who might help clarify what happened.
• Keep any documents you receive from the court or jail in one place so we can review them together.
• Contact a defense lawyer as soon as you can to talk about the case before important decisions are made.

The earlier we are involved, the more we can typically do to preserve helpful evidence and prepare for hearings. Whether you are still being investigated or have already been charged, you do not have to go through this alone.

Why Choose Our Burglary Lawyer

When you look for a lawyer, you want to know how that person will actually handle your case. At Feld Law Firm, we focus on criminal defense work and take a personal approach to every file. You are not just a number on a docket. We make it a priority to listen to your concerns and keep you informed.

Our attorney’s background as a private investigator is a key difference in burglary cases. Many burglary allegations turn on what cameras show, what neighbors say, or what officers claim you admitted. We are comfortable examining these pieces of evidence closely, looking for problems with identification, unclear video, or pressured statements. This investigative mindset helps us build a more complete picture.

Having handled hundreds of criminal matters in Iowa, we are familiar with how cases move through the Polk County District Court and other area courts. That familiarity can help when evaluating plea offers, discussing potential defenses, or deciding whether to take a case to trial. We aim to give you honest, informed guidance instead of just telling you what you want to hear.

We also understand that cost is a real concern. Our services start at $1,000, and we are open about fees so you are not surprised later. During an initial conversation, we can talk about what work your case might involve and how payment may be structured, depending on the complexity of the charges. Clear communication is central to our approach. We strive to return calls, answer questions, and explain each court date in advance so you know why it matters and how to prepare. With Spanish-speaking support available, we work to ensure that language is not a barrier for you or your family as we move through the case together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I Go To Jail For Burglary In Iowa?

Jail or prison time is possible in many burglary cases, but it is not automatic. The outcome often depends on the degree of burglary, your record, and the facts of the case. We review these details with you and work to pursue options that limit time behind bars.

Should I Talk To Police About My Burglary Case?

It is usually safer not to discuss the facts of your case with the police until you speak with a lawyer. Even casual comments can be misunderstood or taken out of context. We can talk with you first, then decide together how to handle any requests for statements.

How Quickly Should I Hire A Lawyer After An Arrest?

It is wise to involve a lawyer as soon as you can after an arrest or when you learn you are under investigation. Early help allows us to prepare for bond hearings, start reviewing evidence, and protect your rights from the beginning of the case.

How Much Does It Cost To Hire Your Firm?

At Feld Law Firm, services start at $1,000. The total fee depends on the complexity of the charges and the work the case requires. We can discuss likely costs during an initial conversation so you have a clear understanding before you decide how to move forward.

What Makes Feld Law Firm Different In Burglary Cases?

We combine a criminal defense focus with an attorney who has a private investigator background, which strengthens how we review evidence. We treat clients like family, explain each step, and provide Spanish-speaking support. Our goal is to guide you through a stressful time with careful preparation and clear communication.

Talk To A Burglary Lawyer Today

Burglary charges are serious, but you do not have to face them on your own. With the right guidance, there may be defenses to explore, evidence to challenge, and options to consider that you have not yet heard about. Speaking with a burglary lawyer Polk County residents can turn to for help is an important first step.

When you contact Feld Law Firm, we take time to learn what happened, review available documents, and explain the process ahead in plain language. From our office in Des Moines, we represent people charged in Polk County and nearby courts, and we work to protect both your rights and your future.

If you or a loved one are facing a burglary accusation, reach out so we can talk about your situation and possible next steps. Call (515) 996-4441 to speak with our team today.