If you are a student, who has been charged with a crime or the parent of a student who is facing criminal charges, understanding what legal options are available is imperative. The best defense strategy against the charge you face will be unique to you and the case that has been leveled against you.
A Kendall student defense lawyer with experience handling these delicate legal matters can examine the allegations involved and the most appropriate strategies to utilize against them. From representing your interests in a court of law to advocating your case at administrative hearings held by the school or university involved to navigating the ins and outs of the criminal justice system, the defense attorneys at Rossen Law Firm are here to help.
Kendall Student Defense Guide
How Student Criminal Cases Work
When a student is being investigated for an alleged criminal offense or stands charged with a crime, numerous factors can impact the outcome of the case. Depending on the student's age, they may be charged as minors or adults. Some of the most commonly charged crimes on college campuses and in other settings like high schools and universities are misdemeanors, but some rise to a felony.
Both misdemeanors and felonies can be punishable by fines and jail time. However, misdemeanors typically carry no more than one year of prison as legal punishment. At the same time, a felony charge can see someone incarcerated for more than one year and, in some cases, many years.
It is also essential to understand that depending on the nature of the alleged offense, even if the accused individual is not yet an adult, the prosecutor can recommend to the judge that they be tried as one. When a juvenile is charged with a criminal offense and is tried as a minor, the design of the legal system is to move them toward rehabilitation. In the case of a crime charged in adult court, the total weight of the penalties attached to the underlying offense alleged can apply if a conviction is reached. Working with a seasoned lawyer is especially critical in these cases to protect your or your child’s future.
Our Kendall attorneys help students accused of driving under the influence (DUI), assault, theft, sexual battery, and more. We can also assist with matters involving college or university jurisdictional matters, such as an alleged violation of a school policy.
Potential Penalties for Student Crimes
The types of penalties a student accused of a crime or violation may face will depend on the alleged act, the category of offense, and the details of the underlying investigation. Penalties could sometimes include jail time, fines, community service, and even restitution.
For example, a first-time DUI is typically a misdemeanor, but a conviction could still mean up to six months in jail, plus fines and the loss of driving privileges. On the other hand, sexual battery (also known as rape) is a second-degree felony offense punishable by up to 15 years in jail and $10,000 in fines. Students may also face non-criminal penalties, such as the loss of financial aid, loss of student housing, disruption of enrollment, or even expulsion from the educational institution.
A Kendall student defense attorney can assist with all aspects of your case, from digging into the chain of events that led to the alleged offense and charge to identifying the most potent defense strategies to put to work. Our attorneys can also represent your interests at administrative proceedings, disciplinary hearings, and other school-specific proceedings, in addition to zealously defending your rights and interests in a court of law.
Contact a Kendall Student Defense Attorney Today
A criminal conviction can impact every part of your life. This is why securing representation from a Kendall student defense lawyer right away is essential if you are facing criminal accusations. An attorney can work with all parties of interest, from the state attorney’s office to the school or university in question, diving into every possible angle and line of defense to mitigate the charges against you. A lawyer can also explore legal alternatives like diversion programs where available or even work to get your charges dismissed in some cases.
To discuss your case with an experienced legal professional, call our office today and schedule your one-on-one legal consultation. Our Rossen Law Firm team is ready to work for you.