The possession and use of drugs in school is on the rise. In turn, schools are developing zero tolerance policies regarding the possession of drugs, drug paraphernalia, use of drugs, and distribution of drugs. This means that a student could face suspension, expulsion, and even criminal charges if caught.Marijuana recently won legalization for medicinal and recreational use in several states. Although the use of Marijuana may be legal for use in your home under certain circumstances, it is strictly prohibited on any K-12 school campus. It may also be prohibited on college and university campuses. The same rules apply to any drug paraphernalia like vaporizers and other smoking devices.Other illegal drugs like cocaine, LSD, Ecstasy, etc. can also put a student at risk of losing their educational future.Another issue that is on the rise is the possession of prescription medication “study drugs” like Adderall or pain relievers like Percocet. Often these drugs are not prescribed for the student and they are in possession of the pills illegally. Even if the student is in possession of a prescription for these drugs, schools have a special procedure that a student must follow to have the pills on campus. Students should also be careful of bringing over the counter drugs like cough medicines to school. Over the counter drugs may also be prohibited on school campuses.
So what should you do if you were caught with drugs in school?
- Do not talk to any friends or school staff about the incident – It is natural to try and fix a situation by admitting to the accusations, making excuses, or even lying about the circumstances. Don’t talk. It only locks you into a story that may make your situation worse.
- Hire an Education Law Attorney Immediately – The quicker an attorney is involved, the better the chance of avoiding the most severe penalties like expulsion and the greater your chance at protecting your educational future.
If found with drugs on a K-12 campus it may fall under a level IV offense.Click here to read my blog post on Level IV offenses. Richard Asselta is an award-winning education lawyer with offices in Florida and New Jersey. Call today for a free consultation and see how The Education Lawyers will fight to keep you in school. (855) EDU-LAWYER