Washington State uses “theft” as a catchall term for stealing. Here, as in Oregon, we have felony theft and misdemeanor theft. Robbery is committed against another person, like a mugging or holding up a convenience store. It is considered a crime against a person, and requires use of force or the threat of imminent use of force. While it is a form of theft, it is categorized as crime against a person. Burglary is a theft crime committed against a structure, like breaking into someone’s house to steal a TV. To prove burglary, the prosecutor must show that the defendant was not invited into the structure, and that he or she intended to steal. Thus, a person can be convicted of burglary even if he or she took nothing from the structure. Of the two charges, robbery often carries the more severe penalties. Contact the Vancouver, WA defense lawyers of Philbrook Law Office as soon as possible if you are being charged with theft, burglary, or robbery.