The stakes are especially high for students charged with a crime. In addition to facing criminal repercussions, students can face academic disciplinary proceedings for their alleged criminal behavior. These proceedings can result in suspension or expulsion, prevent admission to other schools, and impact the student’s ability to obtain future employment.
If you or a loved one is a student facing criminal charges and potential disciplinary proceedings, contacting a Newark student defense lawyer is vital. A hard-working criminal defense attorney can prepare you for school and criminal proceedings and help you navigate the complicated landscape of modern Title IX and related proceedings.
Colleges and universities are making a concerted effort to crack down on some of the behaviors that were once an accepted part of being wild in college. They take drug and alcohol offenses more seriously, which is why college students may require help from a Newark student defense lawyer.
One of the most common charges for college students is underage drinking, colloquially known as a MIP, minor in possession. The legal drinking age is 21, but the vast majority of college students will drink before reaching that age. If caught, the charge is a disorderly person’s offense and carries a potential sentence of up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
Many college students also experiment with drugs. While marijuana possession and use are legal for those 21 and older, people under 21 are still committing crimes. Additionally, it is illegal to possess most other controlled substances. Depending on the type and amount of drugs, students could be facing felony charges for those offenses. Possession of drugs on campus can lead to suspension or expulsion.
Colleges are less likely than ever before to ignore complaints of violence, sexual assault, and sexual harassment. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is another frequent charge. Depending on the circumstances, the number of offenses, and the driver’s age, it can result in hefty fines, license suspension, increased insurance rates, and even jail time.
Disorderly conduct is a catch-all phrase that describes rowdy behavior. Loud partying, belligerent behavior, and more can fall under this category. Whether conduct is disorderly can be somewhat subjective, which can make it more difficult to defend against these charges without help from a student defense lawyer in Newark.
The two biggest concerns are assault and sexual assault charges. These offenses can range from threats and minor unwanted touching up to assault with a deadly weapon or rape. Because these crimes involve victims who may also be students, they are the most likely to result in harsh disciplinary consequences.
College students are known for risky and reckless behavior. While parents and others want to discourage those behaviors, they also do not want a dumb mistake to derail someone’s future. The best way to prevent that consequence is to take any allegation of wrongdoing seriously and hire a Newark student defense lawyer. Contact us today.
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