If you're in college, chances are you have that one friend—and if you're a parent of a college student, think back to your own late teens or early 20s, and you'll probably remember "that one friend" too! The girl who can't hold her liquor but insists on drinking anyway. The guy who never seems to think before he acts. People who consider Truth or Dare to be a blood sport.

You may be innocent, sober as a judge, and completely blameless. But if you're on campus with a friend who's from out of town or who doesn't go to your school, you're still responsible for their behavior.

What? It's true. Read on to learn more.

Poor Behavior On the Part of Campus Guests

When you're living on campus, it can be great fun when a friend from high school or someone you went to camp with comes to visit. You get to show them around your environment, introduce your new friends to your old ones, and of course, catch up, reminisce, and just hang out.

Before you issue that invitation, however, know that if your buddies from out of town decide to act up during their trip, it might mean big trouble for you.

That's because you will be held responsible for your guests' behavior and actions while on campus. Should they violate the policies of your school or commit a code of conduct breach, you could be held responsible. That's true even if you didn't take part in the incident.

Avoid Potential Issues Before the Visit

When planning your fun weekend or mini-reunion, it's important to read over your school's Code of Conduct or Student Handbook to make sure you don't inadvertently violate any regulations.

For example, some schools require you to get permission from any roommates or suitemates if the guests are going to crash on your floor or occupy an empty bunk.

In many cases, the guests may not stay for more than a certain number of days and nights—usually just three or four—without prior permission from your dorm's or school's higher-ups.

There may be other restrictions. A quick search of your school's policies could save a lot of heartache.

Know Your Responsibilities and Use Good Judgment

You're responsible for all visitors, not just overnight guests. A friend could stop by to see you for an afternoon or even an hour, and you're held accountable for any violations they commit during that time.

A few guidelines to follow as a host:

• Always escort your guests on and off campus.
• Make sure guests have not just your number but your dorm info and even your roommates' info—just in case.
• Inform guests of the school's policies, and emphasize that you'll go down for their shenanigans.
• Discourage your friends from drinking to excess or using drugs. These acts themselves could be violations; intoxication could also lead to additional problems.
• Don't allow anyone to bring illegal items to campus, such as weapons or drugs.

Students need to cut loose, have fun, and forget their studies for a while. This helps them destress, and social activity is a big part of a successful and satisfactory college or university experience. However, dangerous and prohibited behavior isn't worth the risk of going through a conduct violation hearing—let alone the potential punishment.

Guests Got You In Trouble?

If a campus guest has engaged in egregious behavior that violates your school's disciplinary code, and you're taking the heat for it, call the Lento Law Firm. Our Education Law team can help. Call 888.535.3686 or click here to get started straightening things out.