College is a time for experimentation, risk-taking, and thrill-seeking. Too often, this adventurous spirit leads to mistakes — and sometimes to breaking the law. When this happens, students face serious consequences both on and off campus, including losing scholarship money, expulsion, fines, and even jail time.
A person’s mistakes in college should not haunt them forever. It is important to contact an Oakland County student defense lawyer before proceeding with your case. Any criminal charge can drastically alter a person’s life, especially a college student’s. Criminal convictions can have a dramatic impact on your burgeoning career path.
Preserve your future potential with the help of a skilled criminal attorney. Whether you are facing a school administrative hearing or actual criminal charges, do not delay in contacting an experienced student defense lawyer in Michigan.
Common College Criminal OffensesPartying in college is seen as a rite of passage, but underage drinking can jeopardize a student’s future. Whether at a dorm, a fraternity or sorority house, or apartment, the opportunities to drink underage are endless in college. RAs and campus police are well aware of this, too, and are constantly on the hunt for parties to investigate. Should a student be arrested for drinking underage, the consequences are very real.
Physical assault is another common criminal offense that occurs in college. Those taking drugs or drinking alcohol may have impaired judgment, escalating their altercations to a physical level. Anyone who has ever attended a college party has probably witnessed a fight, and alcohol is frequently to blame. What many do not realize is that depending on a person’s level of participation and the injuries they inflict on another, they may be charged with simple or aggravated assault.
Intoxicated people may find themselves in sexual situations in which lines are blurred. Impaired judgment and perception of a situation can lead to misunderstandings of consent. When feelings are not mutual and things are taken too far, sexual assault allegations can be made. Convictions can seriously damage a person’s reputation for life.
Consequences for ConvictionsPeople charged with any of the above crimes face real consequences both on and off campus. Scholarships can be canceled and expulsion can occur. Students may face the loss of their driver’s license, fines, jail time, and restraining orders. Just like people who commit a crime off campus, those who act out at college are subject to all the same penalties.
The good news is that like anyone else who is arrested or accused of a crime, students have a right to a fair trial. An experienced Oakland County student defense lawyer can ensure that the legal rights of students are protected.
If you or someone you love has been accused of a crime on a college campus, an Oakland County student defense lawyer can help. Mistakes made in the heat of the moment should not jeopardize a college student’s future career. With the help of a skilled attorney, you have a shot at clearing your name and your reputation. Ensure your rights are protected and your side of the story is told.