New Jersey Campus Alcohol-Related Offense Lawyer

Despite most students being under the age of 21, many feel the temptation or pressure to drink to fit in.

While it may seem that many colleges and universities turn a blind eye to these activities, the fact is that this conduct is illegal and if someone suffers an injury due to drinking, or is drunk in public, they are subject to arrest. This can result in not just criminal charges for underage drinking or other violations, but may also cause the school to open a conduct inquiry.

A New Jersey campus alcohol-related offense lawyer understands the need for college students to obtain strong representation for all aspects of these allegations. A qualified student defense attorney could represent individuals accused of alcohol-related offenses, and pursue a positive outcome for them.

At its most basic level, it is illegal for anyone under 21 to consume or possess an open container of alcohol. According to New Jersey Statute 2C § 33-15, the simple possession or consumption of alcohol while underage is a disorderly person offense. This could be punishable by a fine of no less than $500. In addition, this offense may create a criminal record.

If a student is drinking while driving, they may lose their license for six months. Additionally, they may have to attend an alcohol education program at their expense. Of course, it is also illegal to give alcohol to anyone under the age of 21. This is a common allegation that anyone hosting a party may face. Under New Jersey Statute 2C § 33-17, this is a disorderly person offense and is punishable by up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.

Other allegations may involve otherwise illegal activities that involve being drunk. Alcohol may play a role in other violations of the law including assault, disorderly conduct, or public drunkenness.

All colleges and universities in New Jersey have a code of conduct that all members of the community must follow. Generally, these codes require all people to behave in accordance with the law and allow the school to harshly punish those who are in violation.

Usually, the school will hear of an arrest and begin their own independent investigation. This may involve talking to witnesses, gathering evidence, and possibly interviewing the student.While some schools allow attorneys to represent students during these interviews, others are private. Regardless, a New Jersey campus alcohol-related offense lawyer could help students accused of conduct code violations by preparing them for the hearing and advising them on what to say.

These commissions have the power to punish students, even if the criminal court finds them innocent. Punishments may include loss of privileges on campus, suspension, or even expulsion.

While drinking may be a rite of passage for many young people, the fact remains that underage drinking, drunk driving, and other alcohol-related offenses are against the law. If the police arrest any person that they believe violated these laws, they may bring criminal charges.In addition, when the school learns of the arrest, they could instigate their own investigations that could jeopardize the future of a student’s education.

A New Jersey campus alcohol-related offense lawyer could defend college students in both criminal courts and conduct hearings. They could work to keep people out of jail and on the path to graduation. Contact an attorney to see how they could help.