Breaking & Entering Defense for Boston College Students: Protect Your Future
A Breaking & Entering (B&E) charge can be a life-altering event for a Boston College student. Whether it's a misunderstanding, a poor choice during a night out, or an alleged theft, this charge can lead to felony prosecution in Newton District Court, a permanent criminal record, and university discipline that could derail your academic career.
At Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm, we understand the stakes. Our experienced attorneys act swiftly to protect your legal rights and academic standing at Boston College.
📞 Call (857) 229-2442 now for a free, confidential consultation.
What Is Breaking & Entering in Massachusetts?
Under M.G.L. c. 266 §16, Breaking and Entering occurs when someone:
🔹 Breaks into or enters a building or dwelling
🔹 Without authorization
🔹 With intent to commit a felony or misdemeanor inside
Types of B&E charges include:
🏠 Nighttime B&E into a dwelling – up to 20 years in state prison
🏠 Daytime B&E into a dwelling – up to 10 years in state prison
🏫 B&E into a building (e.g., school, dorm) with intent to commit a misdemeanor – up to 2 years in jail
Most B&E charges are felonies and may include additional charges like larceny, trespassing, or vandalism.
Boston College Students and B&E Charges
Common scenarios leading to B&E charges for students include:
🎓 Entering another student's dorm during a dispute
🍻 Entering a locked building or off-campus apartment while intoxicated
🎭 Group pranks or unauthorized access incidents
💔 Property disputes with roommates or ex-partners
Even without damage or theft, the prosecution focuses heavily on the intent behind the entry.
Disciplinary Action from Boston College
Boston College's Office of Student Conduct may impose sanctions for B&E-related incidents, including:
📤 Suspension or expulsion
🛏️ Removal from campus housing
📋 Permanent conduct record
🏅 Loss of scholarships or study abroad eligibility
Disciplinary actions can proceed even if you're not convicted in court. Refer to BC's Student Code of Conduct for details.
Will the School Be Notified?
Yes. Newton Police or Boston College Police typically notify the university. When charged with B&E:
🔸 BC may issue interim restrictions (e.g., no-contact orders, class changes)
🔸 Administrators may conduct a parallel investigation
🔸 Parents are not notified unless FERPA protections are waived
Our firm helps manage communication with the school to protect your academic rights.
What Should Parents Expect?
A B&E charge can be overwhelming for families. Common questions include:
❓ Will my child be expelled?
❓ Can this be resolved discreetly?
❓ Do we need a lawyer immediately?
Yes—early legal intervention is critical. We work with students and parents to safeguard both legal and academic interests.
Can This Be Kept Off a Criminal Record?
Depending on the case, options to avoid a permanent record include:
🔁 Pre-trial diversion
📝 Continuance Without a Finding (CWOF)
📂 Dismissal after probation or counseling
🔒 Record sealing after a successful outcome
We prioritize avoiding felony convictions to preserve opportunities for graduate school, jobs, and licensure.
Defense Strategies for College Students
Every B&E case is unique. Potential defenses include:
✅ No criminal intent to commit a crime inside
✅ Permission to enter (e.g., keys, invitation, miscommunication)
✅ Mistaken identity or false accusation
✅ Influence of alcohol or mental health factors
We thoroughly investigate, challenge the prosecution, and pursue reductions or dismissals.
Newton District Court: What to Expect
Newton District Court handles B&E charges for Boston College students, starting with:
⚖️ Arraignment
📅 Pre-trial hearings
🔍 Discovery and motions
🤝 Plea negotiation or trial
Many student cases are resolved through negotiated outcomes, but we prepare every case for trial if needed.
Why Choose Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm?
🎯 Focused on college student criminal defense
⚖️ Extensive experience in Newton District Court
🤝 Discreet and compassionate client handling
🏆 Proven success in resolving felony charges without conviction
We don't just defend—we protect your future.
Contact Us Today
Marin, Barrett, and Murphy Law Firm
📍 572 Washington Street, Suite 21, Wellesley, MA 02482
📞 (857) 229-2442
If your Boston College student faces a Breaking & Entering charge, time is critical. Call now for a confidential consultation to navigate the court system and university disciplinary process.
🚨 URGENT: Charged with Breaking & Entering? Call now for a free consultation to protect your education and future.
