If you have found yourself at the receiving end of a burglary charge, you know that it can be an unnerving thing to deal with. In Connecticut, such an occurrence can have life-altering effects. Your day-to-day life can take a drastic turn due to the consequences that follow a burglary charge.
What starts as a simple mistake, or a moment of poor judgment, can quickly escalate into a series of events that have profound impacts on your life. Understanding the potential outcomes can prepare you for what lies ahead.
Personal freedom
In Connecticut, the courts treat burglary crimes seriously. A conviction can lead to imprisonment. The length of the sentence depends on the severity of the crime and the degree of the burglary. For instance, a burglary in the third degree, the least severe type, may result in a jail sentence of up to five years. If the burglary is more severe, like first-degree burglary that involves violence, you may face up to 20 years in jail.
Monetary repercussions
Apart from the loss of personal freedom, you might face hefty fines. The fines depend on the degree of the crime committed. For a third-degree burglary charge, you could end up paying thousands of dollars. More serious charges carry higher fines, possibly running into tens of thousands of dollars.
Employment opportunities
A burglary charge can also have dire effects on your employment prospects. Potential employers often conduct background checks, and a criminal charge can be a significant red flag. It can be difficult to secure a job, especially in fields that require a clean record. You may face obstacles in sectors such as education, healthcare and government roles.
Housing and education
Your housing options may become limited after a burglary charge. Landlords often carry out background checks and may deny your application based on criminal history. Moreover, if you are a student, some colleges and universities may rescind admission offers or scholarships due to a criminal record.
Understanding the gravity of these repercussions is important to navigating life following a charge and building a good legal defense.
