Potential Effects of Drug or Other Criminal Charges on a College Student

On Behalf of The Law Office of Brad C. Richardson, LLC | Dec 13, 2023

College students facing drug or other criminal charges can face harsh and life-altering repercussions that go beyond getting expelled or a night in the local jail. Most people don’t realize that a seemingly minor offense can lead to a criminal conviction and a permanent record that can negatively impact their entire life.

At The Law Office of Brad C. Richardson, LLC, our Myrtle Beach criminal defense attorney can safeguard your freedom and future and mitigate the potential effects of a criminal charge, such as:

Impaired driving, including driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs, boating under the influence (BUI), open container violation, and implied consent violation
Disorderly conduct
Vandalism
Using false identification
Assault
Sex crimes
Shoplifting and other theft charges
Drug charges, including simple possession and possession with intent to distribute meth, heroin, cocaine, prescription medication, marijuana, etc.

College Students Can Face Life-Changing Consequences Due to Criminal Charges

It’s crucial to keep in mind that the potential effects of getting a criminal charge are the same for everyone, regardless of whether they are college students, especially for adults. Depending on the offense you committed, a conviction can lead to hefty fines and jail or prison time, among others. However, you may also face penalties from their school if the offense occurred on or near the school or if it involves another student or a faculty member.

In such cases, your school’s judicial board will initiate an investigation and a hearing about the offense you committed. Educational institutions have different policies for dealing with college students who have allegedly committed a criminal offense. The penalties they may impose will vary depending on the severity and nature of the offense. While minor violations may lead to probation or suspension, more severe offenses may result in expulsion.

In addition, you may face various short-term and long-term collateral consequences. If you get convicted of a crime, it will be more challenging for you to get accepted into another school, a graduate program, or an internship. You may also be ineligible for financial aid or scholarships.

You could also lose your job if you are a working college student. A conviction can likewise negatively affect your future employment opportunities, even if you’re perfect for the job you are applying for. Also, certain convictions, especially those that are sex-related, may disqualify you from many housing options.

Furthermore, even if the school clears you and finds you not guilty of the offense, this does not automatically mean that you will not be convicted of the criminal charges against you. Alternatively, your school may expel you even if you were found not guilty of the charges in court and you could lose financial assistance or your scholarship.

Obtain Legal Guidance From a Seasoned Myrtle Beach Criminal Defense Attorney Now

If you’re facing criminal charges as a college student, do not let one mistake derail your entire life. Our seasoned Myrtle Beach criminal defense attorney at The Law Office of Brad C. Richardson, LLC, can develop a strategy that fits your situation and explore various options, such as pretrial intervention, a conditional discharge, an alcohol education program, drug court, and expungement of your records. Schedule your free consultation with our Myrtle Beach criminal defense attorney by reaching us online or calling our office.