University Student Crimes We Handle
University students are often living away from home for the first time in their lives. With that newfound freedom comes the risk of making mistakes. Unfortunately, a moment of poor judgment can have serious consequences under Colorado law and university rules. At McCabe Law, we defend CU students who are facing criminal charges, such as:
- Drug and alcohol charges, including use, possession, supplying to a minor, minor in possession, and trafficking
- DUI/DWAI charges, including underage DUI
- Violent crimes, including assault, domestic violence, and possession of weapons
- Sex crimes, including sexual assault allegations, sexual harassment and other alleged violations, date rape and indecent exposure
- Theft and property crime, including vandalism
- Hazing and similar actions
- Disorderly conduct
University of Colorado Boulder Code of Conduct
Common misdemeanor offenses, such as alcohol-related charges, are often fairly manageable from a criminal standpoint. Under the Colorado University Student Student Conduct Code and other university rules, however, these crimes are taken very seriously and can have a significant and permanent impact on your education and future circumstances.
Colorado University Disciplinary Process
Because committing a crime is a violation of the code of conduct, a student who has been arrested for a misdemeanor will also face disciplinary proceedings at school.
The school may learn about the crime directly from law enforcement officials including the Boulder police department . A student conduct officer will then reach out to the student with a notice of the next steps. The officer may request a meeting with the student–often quickly if there is a concern for the safety of others.
It’s important to remember that the rules for evidence and procedures are different in the university disciplinary process than they are in a criminal case in court. Even when criminal charges were dropped, schools often continue with violation proceedings. Students often feel that their school has turned against them, and they may have limited time to respond.
You do not have to face these hearings alone. A student criminal defense attorney doesn’t just represent you in the courtroom—she also helps your case on campus. Although attorneys are not allowed to act as representatives in disciplinary proceedings, we can attend and advise you on the process, provide legal analysis, and strategize with you on what to do in the hearing for your benefit.
However, you don’t have the luxury of time. University of Colorado disciplinary proceedings tends to move much more quickly than criminal hearings. In fact, the code of conduct gives conduct officers the right to request a meeting within 48 hours of the offense. For the best chance at a positive outcome, you should consult with a CU Boulder student criminal defense attorney right away to deal with the situation effectively.
At McCabe Law office, our practice is available 24/7, so you can contact us right away for assistance and legal advice on your case.
Colorado University Disciplinary Sanctions
Colorado University students who have committed a crime face the possibility of very severe punishments from the school board. They include:
- Being reassigned or removed from on-campus housing
- Being suspended
- Being expelled
- Losing scholarship money
- Losing financial aid
- Being required to submit to drug or alcohol testing
- Being required to complete community service or undergo drug or alcohol counseling
- Being placed on academic probation
- Having to pay fines
- Parental notification to parents
In addition to the punishments issued by the University, being convicted of a misdemeanor can have lifelong negative consequences for a student. A college student convicted of DUI, for example, might lose tuition assistance or even be expelled from school. However, this DUI conviction wouldn’t just affect his education.
With a DUI on his permanent criminal record, the student would be blocked from certain career choices, particularly those that involve driving or childcare, and may face issues related to a professional license. He wouldn’t be allowed to visit certain countries, including Mexico and Canada. An international student could even lose his visa to stay in the United States.
As you can see, the stakes are high. Attempting to handle a university student misdemeanor on your own is like gambling with your future. Your decision to work with an experienced student lawyer could make all the difference between a life lesson and a lifelong regret.
Local, Knowledgeable Cu Boulder Student Criminal Defense Lawyer
At McCabe Law, we understand the gravity of a student misdemeanor and we can help you minimize disruptions as we work through your case together. We bring the expertise that comes with more than 25 years of representing Coloradoans in similar situations, and we’ll stand by your side every step of the way.
We understand the intricacies of not just the criminal code, but also the school conduct code. We’ll ensure that you’re treated fairly at your school hearing and that the school board doesn’t overstep its bounds or violate your rights as a person. We know every story has two sides and we’ll ensure your side is heard.
Recognized across Colorado both for her aggression in the courtroom and her compassion with her clients, Janene McCabe will craft a defense strategy that’s tailor-made to help you stay in school—and out of jail. Please contact us or call 720-818-9258 today to set up a free, no-risk consultation.