Can You Get Kicked Out Of College For A Misdemeanor

College is a transformative period filled with academic pursuits, personal growth, and social experiences. However, this journey can be disrupted by legal entanglements, particularly misdemeanor offenses. This article answers the question: “Can you get kicked out of college for a misdemeanor”. If you are young and just starting out in college or the workforce, you may believe that a misdemeanour conviction is not a big deal.

If you’re like most young adults, you’ll go out to parties, bars, or events with friends and acquaintances. It’s critical to ensure that you take care of yourself while you’re there and that you don’t do anything illegal. If you do, you may face more than just criminal charges.

If you believe that a misdemeanour is equivalent to a slap on the wrist, you should be aware that the penalties for a misdemeanour can have long-term consequences. This is especially true if your conviction was for drugs or violence.

Can You Get Kicked Out Of College For A Misdemeanor

Not all colleges or universities conduct background checks on prospective students, but the majority do. Approximately 66% of colleges collect criminal justice information about arrests and convictions. That information isn’t always used to determine whether you’ll be able to attend the school, but it could be.

Even if you are already enrolled, this information is likely to be pulled the following semester. If you do not report an offence, the school may find out about it and suspend you, penalise you, remove you from a specific programme or club, or prevent you from enrolling in the following semester.

If you are accused of a misdemeanor crime while you’re in college, you may be concerned that this will put an end to your schooling. The truth is that every school is different, so whether you are likely to be kicked out of school or not will depend on the school’s rules.

As you may know, a felony is the most serious type of crime and carries the harshest penalties. A misdemeanour is a lesser offence than a felony, and you can be charged with one for acts such as assault, domestic violence, DUI, theft, or resisting arrest.

Penalties associated with a misdemeanor

If you are convicted of a misdemeanour, you will quickly learn that the penalties can have an impact on both your freedom and your finances. Worse, if you are convicted of a second or third misdemeanour, you can expect an even harsher sentence. A misdemeanour conviction can result in the following penalties:

• Up to one year of jail time
• Expensive fines
• Community service that could take you away from school or your job
• Mandatory counseling or special classes that have rigid requirements

University students with a misdemeanor

You’re going to college to get a degree that will help you get a good job. Because misdemeanours are public record, potential employers may see your conviction for drugs, DUI, or assault and decide not to hire you. In the short term, your misdemeanour as a college student can mean:

• Suspension or expulsion from school
• Loss of an athletic or academic scholarship
• Loss of financial aid

If you are in college at the time of your misdemeanour conviction, your student aid may be suspended or cancelled. Because you are most likely reliant on this aid to help pay your tuition, the consequences of a misdemeanour may also cause you to drop out.

If you find yourself in a situation that could lead to misdemeanour charges, you should immediately contact a criminal defence attorney. If you do not fight the charge, you may have to live with the consequences for a long time.

Steps to Take Following a Misdemeanor

If you have been charged with a misdemeanor while enrolled in college, it is crucial to take immediate action to mitigate the potential impact on your academic standing.

1. Inform Your College: Notify your college’s conduct office of the misdemeanor charges as soon as possible. Transparency and cooperation demonstrate a willingness to take responsibility for your actions.

2. Seek Legal Counsel: Consult with an attorney specializing in student disciplinary matters. Legal representation can help you understand your rights, navigate the disciplinary process, and present your case effectively.

3. Prepare a Plan for Mitigation: Develop a plan to address the root causes of your misdemeanor behavior and demonstrate your commitment to positive change. This may involve counseling, substance abuse treatment, or community involvement.

4. Attend Disciplinary Hearings: Actively participate in any disciplinary hearings or meetings scheduled by the college. Be prepared to explain the circumstances surrounding the misdemeanor and express your remorse for the offense.

5. Appeal Decisions: If you disagree with the outcome of the disciplinary proceedings, you may have the right to appeal the decision. Follow the institution’s appeals process and present a compelling case for reconsideration.

Conclusion

While a misdemeanor can pose significant challenges for college students, it is not an insurmountable obstacle. With proactive measures, legal counsel, and a commitment to personal growth, students can navigate the disciplinary process, demonstrate their resilience, and continue their academic journey.

Remember, every individual’s situation is unique, and the specific consequences of a misdemeanor will vary depending on the circumstances. It is crucial to consult with an attorney specializing in student disciplinary matters to understand the specific policies and procedures of your college and to receive personalized guidance throughout the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it possible to get expelled from college for a misdemeanor? Yes, it is possible to get expelled from college for a misdemeanor. The severity of the offense, the student’s past disciplinary record, and the potential impact on the campus community are all factors that colleges consider when determining the appropriate disciplinary action.
2. What types of misdemeanors are most likely to result in expulsion? Misdemeanors related to violence, drug possession, or dishonesty are more likely to result in expulsion, as these offenses pose a threat to the safety and well-being of the campus community. However, even seemingly minor misdemeanors, such as shoplifting or public intoxication, can lead to expulsion if they violate the college’s code of conduct.
3. What are some alternative disciplinary measures that colleges may use instead of expulsion? In some cases, colleges may opt for alternative disciplinary measures instead of expulsion, such as suspension, probation, or community service. These options allow students to remain enrolled while facing the consequences of their actions.