As you sat in the back of that police cruiser during your freshman year of college, several thoughts undoubtedly popped into your head at once. You probably wondered how your parents would react to the arrest, and you also probably asked yourself if this incident would ruin your career as a college student. Depending on the location and the severity of the offense, you could face sanctions from your college in addition to criminal charges. Smoothing the situation over as soon as possible will help you to keep your college plans moving along.
Avoid Trouble Rather Than Reacting to It
The best way to be rid of troubles from college arrests is to never be arrested in the first place. After all, your career field could have strict requirements for a clean criminal record. Employers will ask you about your past indiscretions, and you must at least be truthful with them up front. Teachers, police officers, lawyers, and other careers are built on character and honesty. Think about the consequences of getting into trouble with the law when you're attempting a career in a sensitive field such as these.
Use Common Sense
Alcohol is likely going to be the main culprit behind your troubles with the law in college. Drinking under the age of 21 is against the law in the United States, but we know that you'll probably do it anyway. If you're going to drink, there are several rules you should follow. The first and most important rule is to never drink and drive under any circumstance. Drunk driving is stupid and an arrest for it will certainly jeopardize any career. Don't go to unfamiliar houses for parties alone. Drink in moderation and stop before any trouble can happen.
When to Consult an Attorney
If you've already been arrested, then you must do your best to control the damage that it might do to your record. Our Orlando criminal attorney suggests it's in your best interest to choose an attorney local to the area in which you are charged; they can look after your best interests and will know the laws and court systems involved in getting the charges against you dropped or reduced. A disorderly conduct charge on your record looks a lot better than an underage drinking charge. The attorney could try to set up a program where your offense can be removed from your record upon completion of a special program or community service of some kind.
Moving On From an Arrest
One arrest certainly won't cripple your chances of staying in school and getting a good job, but more than one might. You'll need to be on your best behavior for as long as you can after an arrest. Having years go by without another arrest will tell the school and potential employers that you've grown up as a result of your past mistakes. Employers and school officials just want to see maturity.
Enlisting the help of a legal professional should be the first step in claiming your life back. You can still get that degree and do wonderful things in life after an arrest, but it's up to you to learn from what got you into this mess in the first place.
About The Author
Ann Bailey, a former journalist and mother of a college student, writes guest articles for various Arts, Business, and Law interests. She is also a contributing author for the Katz & Phillips, an Orlando criminal attorney team representing those arrested and charged with offenses ranging from DUI to Internet, domestic, and federal crimes. Retaining qualified legal help early on is this firm's best advice for anyone facing charges that could potentially damage their college career plans.
