University is supposed to be an exciting time when students can decide on a career to pursue and learn to be independent. However, it’s not without experimentation, and some young adults engage in what seems like harmless behaviors or make honest mistakes that result in their arrest.
At the Wilson Law Firm, our skilled Manasses criminal defense lawyers understand the harsh punishments and long-term consequences you can face if convicted of a crime while attending a university or college in Virginia. We’re ready to aggressively defend you to help reach a good outcome in your criminal case.
Top 5 Criminal Charges Virginia College Students Face
If you’re arrested, it’s important to understand the potential charges and punishments associated with your charges. This knowledge helps you and your legal counsel make the best decisions in your criminal case. Here are the top criminal offenses our criminal defense attorneys often see.
1. Drunk Driving
One of the most common crimes kids in college commit is driving under the influence. You could be charged with DUI under Virginia Code § 18.2-266 for the following:
- Driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher
- Driving under the influence of alcohol, even if your BAC is lower than 0.08
- Driving while under the influence of a narcotic drug or a self-administered intoxicant that impairs your ability to safely operate a vehicle
- Using a combination of alcohol and drugs that reduces your ability to drive safely
You face harsh penalties if convicted of DUI in our state. Here are possible sentences for a first-time DUI conviction:
- Up to one year in jail, with a mandatory jail sentence if your BAC is 0.15 percent or higher.
- A minimum fine of $500 up to $2,500.
- Probation.
- Driver’s license suspension for one year.
2. Underage Drinking
If you’re under 21 and pulled over while driving with a BAC of 0.02 percent or higher, you could be charged with underage drinking. This offense is a Class 1 misdemeanor with similar punishments to DUI. In addition, you could have to undergo substance abuse counseling and complete up to 50 hours of community service.
3. Using a Fake ID
Another crime college students are charged with is using fake or forged identification, such as a driver’s license, identification card, college or university ID, or passport. This offense is often considered a Class 2 misdemeanor. The judge could sentence you to:
- Up to six months in jail
- A maximum fine of $1,000
4. Reckless Driving
While the most common offense in this category is speeding under Virginia Code § 46.2-862, many other actions can be charged as reckless driving in Virginia that would be considered traffic violations in most states. For example, failing to use your turn signal, driving with faulty brakes, and failing to yield the right of way are also classified as reckless driving.
If convicted, you might be sentenced to jail for up to 12 months and have to pay a fine of up to $2,500. In addition, your driver’s license could be suspended for six months, and six points could be added to your driving record, causing your auto insurance premiums to increase dramatically.
5. Shoplifting
Shoplifting is another crime that college students are frequently accused of committing. If the value of the goods is less than $1,000, the police would charge you with petit larceny, a Class 1 misdemeanor. The punishments include up to 12 months in jail and a fine not to exceed $2,500.
However, if the value of what was stolen is $1,000 or more, the crime would be grand larceny, an unclassified felony. If convicted, you can be sentenced to up to 20 years in prison.
How Our Criminal Defense Lawyers Can Help
Our legal team knows you may have strong defenses, even if you believe you’re guilty, and will use them to fight the charges you face. By mounting an aggressive defense, we may be able to get the charges dropped or enter into a favorable plea bargain where the charges are reduced to a minor offense. Throughout your criminal case, your trusted legal team at The Wilson Law Firm will look out for your best interests and explain your options so you can make the best decisions in your case—and for your life.