When College Students Get Arrested in Tennessee

 Posted on September 18, 2024 in University of Tennessee Knoxville College Students

Going off to college is an exciting time of adventure and learning about the world. However, as college students try to spread their wings and experiment with new things, there is one new experience they would probably rather avoid: getting arrested for the first time. When a college student faces charges, what happens next depends on several factors. Since it is often the first time people are exposed to alcohol with potentially high frequency, many college students in Tennessee get arrested for things like underage drinking and public intoxication, which are considered relatively minor offenses.

If, however, your arrest is for something more serious, the consequences can be severe, not only for your criminal record but also for your education. If you are a college student facing charges, contact a Rutledge, TN criminal defense attorney for guidance.

Most Common Charges Facing College Students

Alcohol and drugs, particularly marijuana, are among the things most likely to get a college student arrested. Some of the most common charges faced include:

• Underage purchase or possession of alcohol 
• Public intoxication
• Possession of marijuana

Some other common charges that can have consequences you might be surprised about include:

• Drug possession: Anything other than marijuana can be charged as a felony. College students might also be required to complete drug and alcohol education programs or substance abuse treatment.
• DWI or DUI: Anyone driving with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.02% can be charged for DWI, even if they are of legal drinking age. A DUI is more serious and can have college students spending several days in jail. 

Students facing charges of felonies for violent crimes can be expelled from their schools. If the victim of your alleged crime is another student enrolled at your college, you could even be barred from campus. Some more serious charges that college students sometimes face are: 

• Rape or sexual assault
• Assault
• Drug distribution.

In all cases, a lawyer who can fight aggressively against the charges is the best way to protect yourself.

Contact a Grainger County, TN College Student Criminal Defense Lawyer 

If you are facing criminal charges, speak with a Blaine, TN criminal defense attorney who has experience defending college students against criminal charges. At The Baker Law Firm, we are dedicated to protecting your education as well as your future. Call us at 865-200-4117 to schedule a free consultation, and let us get to work on your case today.