Defending College Students Facing Criminal Charges: What You Need to Know
Introduction
For college students, facing criminal charges is not just a legal issue—it’s a life-altering event that can affect their education, career prospects, and personal reputation. Whether the charge is for an alcohol-related offense, drug possession, or something more serious, the consequences can be far-reaching. At Benzaken, Maguire, Sheehan & Wood, LLP, we understand the challenges students and their families face in these situations. Our goal is to protect students’ rights, ensure due process, and minimize the long-term impact of criminal accusations.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through common charges against college students, their potential impact, and how we can help defend your future.
Understanding the Charges
Common Criminal Charges for College Students
Many college students find themselves facing criminal charges due to youthful mistakes, misunderstandings, or wrongful accusations. Some of the most common offenses include:
Alcohol-Related Offenses: Underage drinking, public intoxication, driving under the influence (DUI), and providing alcohol to minors are all common charges among students.
Drug Possession or Distribution: Possession of illegal substances, misuse of prescription drugs, or drug distribution can lead to serious legal consequences.
Assault and Battery: Physical altercations, whether between students or involving third parties, can result in criminal charges, even if self-defense was involved.
Sexual Assault Allegations: Colleges take sexual misconduct allegations very seriously, and they can lead to criminal charges and disciplinary action.
Theft, Burglary, or Vandalism: Stealing, shoplifting, or property damage can carry criminal penalties and school sanctions.
Disorderly Conduct and Disturbing the Peace: Rowdy behavior, fights, and disruptions on campus can lead to criminal citations.
Weapons Charges: Carrying illegal weapons or violating campus policies on firearms can have serious legal and academic consequences.
Academic Fraud and Identity Theft: Engaging in fraud, forging documents, or using another person's identity for academic gain can lead to criminal charges.
Some charges result from isolated incidents, while others stem from larger investigations. Regardless of the situation, it is critical to have strong legal representation to protect your future.
The Impact on Your Education and Future
Consequences Beyond the Courtroom
A criminal charge as a college student can affect various aspects of your life, including:
College Enrollment: Many schools have zero-tolerance policies for criminal behavior, and students may face suspension, expulsion, or loss of scholarships.
Financial Aid: Certain convictions can disqualify students from federal financial aid, making it difficult to continue their education.
Campus Housing and Privileges: Students may lose the ability to live on campus, participate in clubs, or engage in extracurricular activities.
Future Employment: A criminal record can make it harder to secure internships, jobs, and professional licenses.
Immigration Status: International students face additional risks, as criminal charges can lead to visa revocation or deportation.
Because these consequences can be severe, it is crucial to seek legal counsel as soon as possible to mitigate the damage.
Your Rights and Legal Steps
What to Do If You Are Charged
1. Do Not Talk to the Police Without an Attorney
Many students believe they can explain their way out of a situation, but anything you say can and will be used against you. Politely decline to answer questions without legal representation.
2. Contact an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney
Having a skilled attorney on your side ensures that your rights are protected, evidence is properly handled, and your case is presented in the best possible light.
3. Understand Your School’s Disciplinary Process
Most colleges and universities conduct their own investigations and disciplinary hearings. These proceedings are separate from criminal cases but can still result in serious penalties. We can assist in both legal defense and school disciplinary hearings.
4. Gather Evidence and Witnesses
If you have text messages, emails, videos, or witnesses that can support your defense, provide them to your attorney as soon as possible.
5. Avoid Discussing the Case
Do not talk about your case with friends, professors, or on social media. Anything shared could be used against you in court or by the university.
How We Can Help
Legal Defense Tailored for College Students
At Benzaken, Maguire, Sheehan & Wood, LLP, we provide specialized legal defense for college students, including:
Criminal Defense: Developing a strong strategy to fight charges and seek the best possible outcome.
School Disciplinary Hearings: Representing students in university hearings to protect their academic standing.
Expungement Assistance: Helping students seal or expunge their records when eligible to prevent long-term consequences.
Case Evaluation and Defense Strategy
Every case is different, but our attorneys focus on:
Reviewing the prosecution’s evidence
Identifying weaknesses in the case
Exploring diversion programs or alternative resolutions
Negotiating for reduced charges or dismissals when possible
Representation at Every Stage
Pre-Arrest & Investigation: If you are under investigation, we can intervene early to protect your rights.
College Disciplinary Hearings: We ensure students receive fair treatment in university proceedings.
Court Representation: We handle arraignments, bail hearings, plea negotiations, hearings, and trials.
Appeals & Expungements: We assist students in clearing their records when possible.
Why Choose Us?
At Benzaken, Maguire, Sheehan & Wood, LLP, we have a deep understanding of both the Massachusetts legal system and university disciplinary procedures. We provide:
Experienced Defense Attorneys: Decades of combined experience in criminal defense.
Student-Focused Representation: We recognize the unique challenges faced by young adults.
Aggressive Advocacy: We fight tirelessly to protect your rights and future.
Confidential & Compassionate Counsel: We guide students and their families through difficult legal situations with discretion and understanding.
Contact Us
If you or your child is a college student facing criminal charges, act quickly to protect their rights and future. Contact Benzaken, Maguire, Sheehan & Wood, LLP today for a confidential consultation.