If you or a loved one is currently facing an allegation of a drug violation at a college or university, you should speak with an attorney-advisor as soon as possible. The faster you involve an attorney-advisor, the better your chances of successfully navigating the collegiate disciplinary process and mediating the potential penalties. An experienced attorney-advisor can fight alongside you or your child and ensure that you receive the correct due process. If your university or college has brought allegations against you, it's critical that you not speak with anyone on campus about the allegations. Depending on the circumstances, this could worsen your situation.
What are Some Common Drug Offenses on College or University Campuses?
On a college or university campus, there is a range of drug offenses that might be in place. Often, schools have a zero-tolerance policy for drug use. Drug offenses could include drug possession, where even a small amount of drugs are discovered on a student or in their vehicle; drug use, where a student is allegedly under the influence of the drug; drug distribution or selling, where a student is providing the substance to others; and drug manufacturing, where a student is making drugs. Drug regulations vary by school; however, they usually are strict and cover a range of drugs, from narcotics to steroids to illegal substances like meth and ecstasy. Regardless of the type of drug offense or the drug in question, you should take the allegation of a violation very seriously. Additionally, possession of drug paraphernalia, such as bongs, pipes, needles, or other items used with drugs, may be a violation.
What about Drugs that are Legal in my State?
Some states have legalized marijuana, either medicinal, recreational, or both. However, this does not automatically mean that you may use these drugs on your college campus. Your code of conduct or student handbook will outline the specifics as far as what your school allows and does not allow. Chances are likely, however, that the school does not allow them. Another similar example is prescription drugs. Prescriptions are only allowed for the person whose name is on the prescription. Some of the most common prescription drugs that are used on campuses include drugs such as Adderall, Ritalin, or other drugs that are used by students to help with studying.
Potential Long-Term Consequences of Drug Offense Violations
The sanctions that a school imposes are not the only damage of a drug offense violation. Drug violations on your permanent academic disciplinary record can impact employment opportunities and graduate school opportunities. If your college or university decides to expel or suspend you, your financial aid status could change, and you could lose scholarships or loans. In turn, this could cause financial challenges later in life.
Additionally, depending on the circumstances and the outcome of the disciplinary proceedings, a college may also notify local authorities, which in turn could become more charges. We all make mistakes, and sometimes they are with the best of intentions, like staying up so we can study for a final. An experienced attorney-advisor can help you assert your rights and fight for your due process so that you have the best possible chance of avoiding the collateral consequences.
Possible Sanctions for Code of Conduct Drug Offenses
When a university or college determines that a student is responsible for the alleged drug offense violation, the code of conduct or student handbook will detail the potential sanctions. Although the sanctions will vary by school, they are usually very serious when it comes to drug offenses. At an absolute minimum, a student found responsible may receive probation from the school that is then recorded on their formal academic record. If you plan on applying to any sort of graduate program or any sort of internship, this mark will impact your ability to receive the internship or admission to the program of your choice.
If the offense involved university housing in any way, you could possibly lose your housing at a minimum. If you are an RA, it could be even more serious, as your housing is potentially linked to the work you do as an RA. Other possible sanctions could involve being expelled, suspended, or being under disciplinary probation. Disciplinary probation can impact your ability to participate in clubs or other activities. If your scholarship is dependent on participation in basketball, baseball, or another collegiate activity, then probation could possibly directly affect your scholarship.
How Can an Attorney-Advisor Help Me?
An experienced attorney-advisor who's helped countless students fight will easily navigate the complexity of the hearing process. They'll be able to recommend how to build a strong defense and identify where there are possible weaknesses in your case and how to respond to those. Their expertise is in building a case and investigating a situation. Let them use those skills to help you. Some colleges and universities allow attorney-advisors to attend the hearings, and in those instances, the attorney-advisor may be able to speak on your behalf. Regardless of whether or not the school allows outside individuals into the actual hearing, an attorney-advisor provides invaluable assistance.
Best Student Drug Violation Attorney-Advisor
With so much at stake, if your college or university has accused you of a drug offense code of conduct violation, it's critical that you do everything within your power to handle your case in the best possible way. Hearing boards and collegiate disciplinary proceedings can have a lesser burden of proof than in legal settings. Selecting an attorney-advisor who understands the process and will fight relentlessly on your or your child's behalf can make the difference between losing it all and mitigating the consequences or penalties.
An attorney-advisor can ensure that you receive fair treatment and the due process you deserve. Joseph D. Lento and the Lento Law Firm have worked over many years defending thousands of students in code of conduct violations. If you want an attorney-advisor who will prioritize you and fighting for justice for you, the Lento Law Firm is your best choice. Call us today at 888.535.3686 or contact us online to learn more about how we can help you with your case and your future.
