Drug Charges Have Far-Reaching Consequences For College Students
A person’s college years are a prime opportunity for experimentation. After all, trying new things helps you discover who you are and what’s important to you. New academic pursuits, professional development opportunities, travel destinations, relationships and identities are in ample supply for college students – and so are illicit substances.
Drug use can be another kind of rite of passage for young people, but it comes with many risks. Getting caught with an illegal drug can alter the course of a young person’s life. When faced with this dilemma, Pennsylvania college students and their parents trust me at Robert S. Muir, Attorney at Law, to help them get their lives back on track.
The Legal Penalties For Drug Possession In Pennsylvania
Similarly to other drug crimes, the penalties for drug possession vary depending on the substance involved and how much. For example, possession of marijuana is a relatively minor offense. Possession of less than 30 grams of marijuana is a misdemeanor criminal offense with penalties including a 30-day prison sentence and a $500 fine.
Generally, the higher up in the drug schedule and the more dangerous the substance is, the more severe the penalties for possessing it are. Subsequent offenses also garner harsher punishments. The most severe drug possession charge is a felony, for which the maximum penalty is 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Unlawful possession of prescription drugs is also a crime, which carries severe penalties.
Even if you don’t have drugs on you, getting caught with the tools for drug use can lead to a criminal charge. Possession of drug paraphernalia is a misdemeanor for which those convicted could spend up to a year in jail and pay a $2,500 fine.
Drug Possession Charges Affect Students In Unique Ways
The consequences of drug possession for college students often extend beyond the legal side of things. They could face disciplinary actions from their institutions that could be as extreme as expulsion. They could lose financial aid, be denied acceptance into graduate programs and have limited job opportunities. Students could also be precluded from obtaining the professional licensure required for their future careers, such as nursing or legal licenses.
Getting The Right Legal Help Is Crucial
College students facing criminal charges have a lot at stake. When your entire future could be riding on avoiding conviction, you need legal representation you can count on. I am attorney Robert Muir, and during my more than 30 years of practicing criminal law in Pennsylvania, I’ve helped numerous young people fight drug possession charges and carry on working toward bright futures. As a lawyer in this community, I know the local system and its players well and understand how to operate effectively within that system.
If you choose me to represent you, then you’ll work with me directly. You’ll never have to worry about me handing your case off to someone less experienced. I fight hard for my clients in the courtroom, but I’m friendly and personable with them when it’s just us. I’ll be there to support and guide you through the process every step of the way.
Overall, my goal is to resolve your issue quickly and protect you from life-altering consequences, all at a reasonable price.
Talk To A Drug Crime Attorney Today
If you are either the parent of a college student or a college student yourself who’s facing a drug possession charge, don’t give up hope. It’s time to fight for your future. To get started, contact my office to schedule a free consultation. Call 724-471-6457 or fill out an appointment request form online.
