College is a time when many students get a chance to have some fun away from home. However, the rules of campus and dorms are very clear and discourage certain behavior. Having alcohol on campus or in your dorm room is one of the biggest restrictions. So, what can a student do if they were caught with alcohol? Read on for defense tips from a college student defense lawyer.
How much alcohol is too much to have on campus or in my dorm?
Schools do not define the amount of alcohol and take the position that none is allowed. One beer, or even a cup from an off-campus party, is enough for a college to bring conduct charges against a student.
Other students take alcohol on campus or have alcohol in their dorms all the time. Why me?
I agree that schools take a hard line with some students and let others off the hook. However, just because others got away with it, does not mean you can too. Students can be quick to point fingers at other students to distract from their own situation. This does not help the student in trouble.
My College is telling me I can’t live in the dorms anymore. What can I do?
Schools can ban a student from living on campus. This ban cannot be put into place without a student having a chance at defending themselves.
My College is trying to suspend or expel me. How can I stop them?
Students who are facing a suspension or expulsion from school must be given the chance to defend themselves. The procedures should be clearly outlined in the student handbook under the Student Disciplinary Procedure section.
What if the alcohol was not mine and I did not bring it to school?
I have had several cases where a student’s friend brought alcohol on campus. Another student was dared to take a sip, tricked into drinking the alcohol, or forced into hiding it. Those students who were dared, tricked, or forced can still face the most severe penalties, even if they were not the ones to bring the alcohol on campus.
What is your advice for students facing a suspension or expulsion for alcohol on campus?
Do not talk to any friends or school staff about the incident
A student may have been taught that honesty is best and coming clean will work in their favor. Alternatively, a student may try to make excuses or even lie about the situation.Don’t immediately talk.Talking to the resident assistant (RA) or campus police may make your situation worse depending on the facts. If you are a under 21, you should at least request to speak with your parents before making any statements.
Hire a College Student Defense Lawyer Immediately
The faster a lawyer is involved, the better the chance of avoiding the most severe penalties like suspension or expulsion. Early involvement may even stop a dismissal from on-campus housing.
Can you help all college students that need to fight a suspension or expulsion from college?
Yes. I advise students all over the country facing code of conduct violations. By working together to craft the best defense possible, you will be given the greatest chance at success. Achieving positive results is my goal.
You get only one chance at success. Make it your best.
Richard Asselta is an award-winning lawyer for college students who offers student defense services to students throughout the United States. He is experienced in defending all types of student disciplinary issues including all code of conduct violations. Call The Education Lawyers today for a free consultation and protect your future.855-338-5299Click here to read what clients are saying about Richard Asselta on AVVO, a lawyer review website.