What Happens if I Receive a DUI on Campus?

As if getting arrested for DUI isn’t bad and stressful enough, doing so while a university student could magnify your troubles. Not only do DUI convictions in Alabama have severe and lasting consequences, but you could also jeopardize your education, which is another repercussion of an unfortunate mistake.

What Are the Penalties for DUI in Alabama?

Assuming this a first-time offense, you could still be in a lot of trouble with a DUI conviction. Even with a misdemeanor, you could face up to 12 months in jail, fines of up to $2,100, and mandatory probation lasting a minimum of two years.

Every person in the state with a DUI conviction is also required to attend a substance abuse course, and you may also receive an order for the installation of an ignition interlock device on your car.

It is important to note that DUI convictions in this state are not eligible for expungement, meaning this is something that will be on your record forever unless you are able to enter a pre-trial diversion program.

What Are the Consequences for DUIs on an Alabama Campus?

How your college campus handles your DUI charge is a separate issue from the case that the state of Alabama has against you for driving while under the influence. Most schools have a zero-tolerance policy concerning these matters and will take your DUI arrest seriously.

Your college has the right to take disciplinary action against you for a DUI arrest, and many will do this. By reviewing your university’s codes of conduct, you may be able to get an idea of what lies ahead. In most cases, you will face a disciplinary hearing and could be subject to sanctions.

For example, Auburn University specifies that a person could be in violation of the code of student conduct if they violate any federal, state, or local law. Sanctions might include written warnings, loss of privileges, suspension, and even expulsion from the university.

Another possible consequence of a DUI on campus is the loss of financial aid for school. If you are a scholarship recipient or receive other types of financial aid, some of those awards might come with a “morals clause” that penalizes you for bad behavior. For example, the grant or scholarship might represent a memorial fund, company, or politician that doesn’t want to be associated with people who get arrested.

If you live on campus, are a member of an elite campus organization, or play college sports, you could face even more penalties due to an arrest. You might be asked to move off campus, leave your club, and could also be kicked off of your sports team. Students who were planning study abroad programs, either for a major or voluntarily, may have to rethink those plans if they have pending criminal charges.

The Other Ways a College DUI Conviction Can Impact Your Life

Even if your DUI took place off campus, the police could report the charges to your university. If this happens, all the above issues still apply. Whether or not you can continue your education, having a DUI on your record can affect your future career and job prospects. You may not be able to qualify for certain professional licenses or pass a pre-employment background check with this in your past.

There is even the possibility of losing your present job because of your legal difficulties. Some employers are unkind to staff who have DUI or drug arrests. This could present you with even more financial strain during a period where you are facing fines and other legal costs.

Arrested for DUI on Campus? Speak with an Experienced Auburn DUI Attorney

Being arrested for DUI while in college is not just a financial hardship. This is an event that could cost you your freedom and put your future at risk. Everyone makes mistakes, and if an error in judgment has you facing some serious charges, this is not something that you want to handle on your own.

The Alabama DUI attorneys at Haygood, Cleveland, Pierce, Thompson, and Short, LLP, will take the necessary steps to protect your rights and freedom. We can represent your interests in your DUI case as well as during student conduct hearings at your university. Contact our Auburn office now at 334.821.3892 or reach us online to schedule a consultation.