When you’re in college, you have your whole future ahead of you. However, criminal charges jeopardize your educational, professional, and personal goals. Luftman, Heck & Associates could help clear your name and avoid the harmful penalties associated with DUI, assault, sex crimes, and other criminal charges.
If you’re a college student, here are five things you need to think about if you’re facing criminal charges.
1. You Could Lose Your Financial Aid
Many college students rely on federal financial aid to cover a portion or all their college tuition and fees. However, when you’ve been charged or convicted of a crime, you may find that the government refuses to continue offering you financial support. Most students cannot afford to continue their education without loans, grants, or assistance.
2. Your College May Expel You
Every educational institution has its code of conduct. Your college or university may suspend or expel you for criminal charges or conviction for a sex crime, assault, vehicular manslaughter, or another crime.
Even if your college doesn’t expel you, there may be other disciplinary action against you, such as:
- Community service
- Removal from sports or clubs
- Academic probation
3. Convictions Will Inhibit Your Career Opportunities
There are many penalties you’ll face if you are found guilty of a crime in college, including jail, fines, and loss of financial aid.
However, the most concerning penalty is a criminal record. Depending on the severity of your crime, employers, landlords, and the government will know that you are a convicted criminal. This record could reduce your options for employment, housing, and international travel.
You may be eligible for an expungement, but that could take time. Some crimes do not qualify for expungement.
4. You’ll Have Trouble Finding Housing
When you’ve been accused of or charged with a crime in college, you run the risk of losing your student housing. A criminal record can make it difficult for you to secure housing. You might find yourself living in less-than-ideal neighborhoods or areas.
5. Jail, Prison, and Other Penalties
You could spend weeks, months, or years behind bars, depending on the nature of your crime and the severity of the charges.
There is also the potential for:
- Probation
- Community service
- Parole
- Fines, court costs, or victim restitution
- Sex Offender Registry for sex crimes
Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Cincinnati
Are you a college student facing criminal charges in Cincinnati? The impact a conviction could have on your education, future, and freedom is undeniable. Get the best possible outcome with the help of an experienced Cincinnati criminal defense lawyer.
Call Luftman, Heck & Associates at 513-338-1890, or fill out our online contact form for a free consultation. We’ll reach out to you to discuss the charges you’re facing.
