A Lapse In Judgment Shouldn’t End A College Career

Many college careers have been cut short as a result of arrests and criminal convictions. Even relatively low-level charges such as possession of marijuana are typically a violation of the student code. Disciplinary actions may include loss of scholarships and financial aid eligibility, suspension and possibly expulsion. If you fail to deal with an arrest quickly, it may impact the rest of your life.

Here at Dean Watts, Attorney at Law, we have represented Nacogdoches area college students facing criminal charges for two decades. Our experience working within the local court system gives us insights into how judges are likely to view a student’s offense. We understand the ramifications of an arrest for college students and how to appeal to the mercy of the court.

Defending Students Who Make Mistakes

For most students, college is their first time dealing with the freedom of making choices without oversight. It’s not uncommon for college kids to report feeling stress and anxiety; feelings that can lead to acting out of character and making mistakes they regret later. We focus on defending students who have simply made an error in judgment. Our student clients are typically kids who have been arrested for things such as:

• DWI
• Possession of marijuana
• Felony possession of a controlled substance such as methamphetamines or cocaine

We can help you understand all of the possible options for your college student given their circumstances. If a “guilty” verdict seems likely, we may be able to petition to have the conviction sealed. We can also investigate to see if you are eligible for a pretrial diversion program or other actions that can minimize charges, avoid prosecution or clear your record of past charges.

Common Criminal Charges Facing College Students

Beyond drug-related offenses, college students in Nacogdoches face various criminal charges that can derail their academic futures:

• Public intoxication and DWI: These charges frequently occur during campus events or downtown activities, with DWI convictions carrying mandatory license suspension and substantial fines that prevent students from getting to class or work.
• Theft and shoplifting: Even stealing items worth less than $100 constitutes a Class C misdemeanor that appears on background checks, potentially affecting future employment and graduate school applications.
• Fake ID usage: Underage drinking violations involving fictitious identification violate multiple Texas statutes, including possession of false driver’s licenses and misrepresentation of age, resulting in license suspension and permanent criminal records.
• Assault and disorderly conduct: These charges often arise from altercations at parties, bars or campus events and can escalate quickly from misdemeanors to felonies depending on circumstances and injuries involved.

Each violation creates obstacles that extend far beyond college years and require immediate legal attention.

Long-Term Consequences Of Criminal Records

Criminal convictions create lasting obstacles for students. Financial aid eligibility can be suspended for drug-related convictions, forcing students to withdraw due to inability to pay tuition. Housing options become limited as landlords conduct background checks and refuse applicants with criminal histories.

Future employment prospects suffer significantly as employers screen applicants and may disqualify those with records. Professional licensing in fields like nursing, teaching, law and medicine can be denied based on criminal convictions, effectively barring students from chosen careers.

College Disciplinary Process Vs. Criminal Justice System

Students often face dual proceedings when arrested. The criminal justice system operates independently from university disciplinary processes, meaning students can face penalties from both simultaneously. Universities may suspend or expel students even if criminal charges are dropped.

Providing Counsel For Administrative Hearings

Colleges do not allow attorneys to speak on behalf of students at an administrative hearing. However, we can attend the hearing and provide guidance and advice in formulating a defense strategy. Our goal in all cases involving college students is to minimize the impact of arrests and convictions on the student’s life and academic career.

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to these common questions can offer guidance on how to defend yourself against criminal charges. 

What should I do if I am arrested while in college in Nacogdoches?

Contact an attorney immediately before speaking to police or university officials. Remain silent and request legal representation to protect your rights in both criminal and disciplinary proceedings.

Can a criminal charge affect my college enrollment or financial aid?

Yes, certain convictions can result in suspension or loss of federal financial aid eligibility. Universities may also impose disciplinary sanctions, including suspension or expulsion, independent of criminal outcomes.

If I am facing disciplinary action from my college, do I still need a lawyer?

Yes, legal counsel can attend disciplinary hearings, help formulate defense strategies and coordinate with criminal defense efforts to minimize overall consequences to your academic career.

For Help With College Student Legal Trouble, Contact Dean Watts, Attorney at Law

If you are a college student and have been charged with a crime, acting quickly is critical to minimizing the impact on your life and academic career. The sooner you contact a criminal defense attorney for college students, the more likely you are to find a way to have your charges dropped or minimized. Contact Dean Watts, Attorney at Law, by calling (936) 559-9288 or filling out our online contact form to schedule a consultation.