Drug use is becoming quite prevalent among college students. Students might feel peer pressure to try these drugs and may even use them to loosen up before a party. However, students who get caught with drugs can face trouble with the law. It is important for them to consult with a criminal lawyer as soon as possible.
Here are some of the consequences of getting arrested for drug possession in college:
Jail Time
If you are charged with drug possession, the thought of going to jail is always on the back of your mind. The amount of time you spend in jail will depend on the type of drugs you had in your possession and whether or not you have a criminal background. For example, if you have previous drug possession convictions on your record, you may have to spend more time in jail than someone who has never been in trouble with the law before.
Academic Probation
Colleges and universities frown upon drug use and may likely put students caught with drugs on academic probation. Being put on probation can be very stressful and cause you to do poorly in your classes.
Student Aid Can Be Taken Away
It is also common for colleges and universities to take student aid away from students charged with drug possession. This can be particularly detrimental if this is your only means of paying for your education. You may have no choice but to leave school if your student aid is revoked.
Delayed Graduation
Like the majority of college students, you probably are excited about the day you finally get to graduate and start your new life. However, if you are charged with drug possession, you might not be able to graduate as soon as you would like to. If you miss too many of your classes because of jail time or court dates, you may miss your graduation.
You May Not Get Into Graduate School
If you have plans to go to graduate school after college, a drug possession on your record could really slow you down. Many graduate programs conduct background checks on applicants and might reject those with criminal records. Whether you want to go to law school or medical school, getting convicted of drug possession can hurt your chances.
Hiring a Criminal Lawyer
An experienced lawyer, like a criminal attorney Fairfax VA can turn to, knows just how scary it can be to get arrested for drug possession. You are worried about the possibility of going to jail and how it will affect your future. The criminal lawyers at our firm have represented people in similar situations and will work hard to provide you with the best defense possible. A skilled lawyer can reduce your penalties, protect your legal rights and represent you in court. With someone knowledgeable and experienced on your side, you will feel better about your situation.
Thanks to our friends and contributors from Dave Albo Attorney for their insight into criminal defense.