Drinking is a big part of college culture. But doing so irresponsibly can result in a DUI. Receiving a DUI charge as a college student can have consequences that go beyond the courtroom.
New Jersey DUI penalties
In New Jersey, any person with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or more can be charged for driving under the influence of alcohol. A DUI conviction can result in any of the following penalties:
- Jail time
- Fines
- Community service
- License suspension
Multiple convictions or a high BAC can result in harsher penalties. In addition to these penalties, getting a DUI can disrupt your academic goals in many ways.
Affecting future career goals
Along with your studies, your extracurricular involvement can pave your career path. If you participate in sports, you could get suspended or even kicked off your team for receiving a DUI charge. Even leadership roles like class president can be revoked because of a DUI conviction.
If you have little work experience, these extracurricular activities can build skillsets necessary for your intended career. A DUI charge could take away your opportunity to develop those skills and gain the experience you need to advance your career after college.
Taking a financial hit
Scholarships and financial aid are common and helpful ways you may be funding your college career. You may have even spent months applying for scholarships so that you could afford the school of your dreams. A DUI conviction might put all that hard work to waste. You might become ineligible to continue receiving a free or discounted college education because of a DUI. As a result, you may have more difficulty affording school or have to drop out altogether.
Breaking university policy
Some universities have rules that outline expectations for student behavior. If you live on campus and face a DUI conviction, you could find yourself in violation of your housing contract. Off-campus living might be too expensive or too difficult to obtain with a criminal charge on your record.
Your university might also outline conditions for suspension and expulsion. If you face expulsion, it can be harder to continue your studies because other schools might be less likely to accept you.
Don’t let a DUI charge disrupt your college career. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can help you understand and manage your case.