Knoxville, Tennessee University Criminal Defense Lawyer

Lawyer for University Students Facing Criminal Charges in Knoxville, Tennessee

In many cases, students who attend college will be leaving their parents' homes for the first time. This may provide them with the opportunity to experiment with new ideas and activities while also pursuing their educational goals. Unfortunately, this experimentation could lead students to engage in illegal activities, and if they are arrested, they could face serious issues that may cause problems in their lives and affect their ability to obtain a college degree. Our criminal defense lawyer represents college students who have been charged or accused of a crime. We have the experience and knowledge to represent students in multiple types of criminal cases. We can provide guidance on the best ways to resolve these cases, helping students take steps to protect against penalties that could limit their future opportunities.

Types of Criminal Charges Students May Face

Some of the most common reasons college students may be arrested include:

• Driving under the influence (DUI) or boating under the influence (BUI): College students may enjoy drinking alcohol at parties and other events, but if they operate vehicles or boats while they are intoxicated, they could face criminal charges that could lead to serious penalties, including jail sentences, large fines, and the loss of a driver's license.
• Underage drinking or minor in possession of alcohol: Students who are under the age of 21 may be encouraged to drink alcohol, but they could face criminal charges if they do so. Minors may also be charged with the possession of a fake ID if they attempt to use falsified documents to purchase alcohol.
• Public intoxication and disorderly conduct: Partying and drinking may be a part of the college experience, but these activities could lead to criminal charges if students disturb the peace. Other types of conduct, such as making loud noises or behaving aggressively toward others while watching sports games, could also lead to criminal charges.
• Drug possession: In addition to alcohol use, students may experiment with other substances. However, the possession of controlled substances such as marijuana, cocaine, or prescription drugs can lead to criminal charges.
• Property crimes: Students may be accused of offenses such as theft or vandalism, which can lead to serious penalties if they are convicted.
  
• Sex crimes: There have been many high profile cases where college students have been accused ofsexual assault or other related offenses. These accusations can not only lead to serious criminal penalties, but they may result in expulsion or other consequences that could affect a student's personal life.
  

Anyone who has been arrested will face difficulties as they determine how to defend against criminal charges, but college students who are away from home can find these issues even more challenging. Financial aid, scholarships, and student loans can be affected by criminal accusations, and students may face repercussions from their schools even if they are not convicted. Having a conviction on their record can affect a person's future employment opportunities, their ability to find housing, and their future.

Helping Young Adults Protect Their Futures

When appropriate, our firm assists college students in Tennessee in finding alternatives to criminal convictions, including determining whether they can benefit from participating in diversion programs. These programs may allow students to avoid having criminal convictions or other charges on their permanent record, as long as they complete probation, take educational classes, pay restitution, or meet other requirements. We can advise students about other options that may be available, including negotiating plea bargains, if they are not eligible for diversion programs. If needed, we can defend a student in court and fight to ensure that they will be acquitted of the charges they are facing.

Contact Our Knoxville, TN University Student Criminal Defense Lawyer

To get strong legal representation to address criminal charges that may affect college students, call The Baker Law Firm today at 865-200-4117 or contact our firm online. We provide free, confidential consultations, and we work with clients throughout Eastern and Middle Tennessee. We can help university students determine the best ways to protect their rights and resolve their cases effectively.