For most young people, going to college and spending four years at a university is one of the most exciting and memorable times of life. College brings with it opportunities, friendships, and countless chances for growth. But college isn’t just full of idyllic moments; it can also be a time when young people encounter criminal law problems. For young people, being charged with a crime can be a terrifying and upsetting experience, especially when far away from home. If you have been arrested and are facing a pending investigation, criminal charges, and a disciplinary hearing, our experienced criminal defense attorney at The Law Office of Paul R. Moraski can help. Call today to learn more. 

Common Student Criminal Charges

Of course, there is no limit to the types of crime that a student could potentially be charged with. Most commonly, though, student charges include–

• Alcohol and drug offenses, such as:
  • DUI/OUI
  • Underage drinking
  • False identification 
  • Drug possession
• Theft and robbery
• Assault
• Sexual assault and rape
• Disorderly conduct

If you are facing charges for any of the above offenses or another offense not listed, call an attorney immediately. 

What Happens When You’re Charged with a Crime as a College Student? 

A college student who is charged with a crime or who has had allegations brought against them may not only face penalties imposed by the state if convicted, but will also likely be subjected to a school disciplinary hearing. Unlike state criminal court procedures, university and college disciplinary hearings do not follow the usual rules of evidence and the burden of proof is not the same – in a criminal case, the burden of proof is “beyond a reasonable doubt”; in a college disciplinary hearing, it is “by a preponderance of the evidence.” Being found guilty in a disciplinary hearing could result in expulsion from school and other consequences. 

What to Do If You Are a Student Who is Being Investigated for a Crime

If you have been charged with a criminal offense or/and are being investigated for a crime and you are a college student, the most important thing that you can do is to hire a criminal defense attorney in Massachusetts who has experience working on cases like yours and knows how to provide representation for students facing school disciplinary hearings. Remember, as a student charged with a crime you may be facing both criminal charges brought down by the state and disciplinary actions brought against you by your school; even if you are declared innocent by the state or charges against you are dropped, you could still be found “guilty” in your school disciplinary hearing. Seeking legal representation and preparing yourself for the hearing is vital to the outcome of your case. 

Call The Law Office of Paul R. Moraski Today

At the Law Office of Paul R. Moraski, our experienced criminal defense lawyer understands what you’re going through and how much is on the line, including how severely expulsion or other penalties could affect your future. To learn more about our law firm and how our criminal defense attorney can assist you, call us today at (978) 397-0011 or send us a message directly.