Even if you have no prior criminal record, being charged with an offense categorized as a felony can alter the course of your life. The accusation alone may devastate your personal life and professional prospects; a conviction will likely lead to steep fines, time in prison, and a permanent record as a felony offender, resulting in the loss of several civil privileges.

The quality of legal counsel you retain can make all the difference in your ability to contest the charges and pursue a positive outcome in your case. When the stakes are this high, do not trust your defense to just any attorney. Let a Hartford felony lawyer at Ruane Attorneys take the lead in your case and work tirelessly to protect your rights. Our legal team is prepared to tailor a defense strategy to your situation.

What are Felony Offenses in Hartford?

Compared to misdemeanor offenses, the Connecticut Penal Code considers felony offenses much more severe, warranting harsher sanctions upon conviction. Rather than local or county jail, as would be the case for misdemeanor convictions, terms of imprisonment attached to felony convictions must be served in state prison. Additionally, the difference between misdemeanor and felony fines can be a difference of hundreds of dollars versus thousands.

Connecticut General Statute §53a-25 establishes five “classes” of felony offenses, from the most severe Class A down to Class E. State law also allows felonies to be “unclassified,” in which case the sanctions associated with a conviction would be determined by the statute defining the offense itself.

While Connecticut still defines murder with special circumstances as a “capital felony,” the state no longer imposes the death penalty for any criminal conviction as of 2012. As a local felony attorney could further explain, a conviction for this specific offense will result in life in prison without parole for a defendant over 18.

Potential Penalties for Specific Felony Convictions

As per C.G.S. §53a-35a and 53a-41, convictions for each class of felony in Connecticut carry the following maximum criminal penalties:

• Class E felony – up to three years in prison and a $3,500 fine
• Class D felony – up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine
• Class C felony – between one and ten years in prison and a $10,000 fine
• Class B felony – between one and 20 years in prison and a $15,000 fine
• Class A felony – between 10 and 25 years in prison and a $20,000 fine

C.G.S. §53a-35a also establishes unique sentencing ranges for three distinct offenses. First-degree manslaughter with a firearm carries a prison term of five to 40 years, aggravated sexual assault of a minor brings between 25 and 50 years, and murder without special circumstances is punishable by 25 years to life imprisonment. Our Hartford defense lawyers can further explain the sanctions for a particular felony charge during a confidential consultation.

Contact a Hartford Felony Attorney for Assistance

No matter the nature of your alleged offense or your previous criminal record, our legal team is here to defend your rights, freedom, and future. Being proactive in contacting legal counsel and building a defense is crucial to prevent severe consequences. If convicted, you face years in prison and the loss of many civil rights.

Guidance from a Hartford felony lawyer could make a huge difference in your prospects of a favorable case outcome. Learn more by calling Ruane Attorneys today.