High school students hoping to attend college often make choices throughout high school to help improve their chances of getting into their first-choice schools. The classes they take and the extracurricular activities that they participate in can influence their likelihood of gaining admission to competitive schools and securing financial aid to help pay for tuition.
Many ambitious high school students devote years of concerted effort to developing their dream of attending college and pursuing a specific career. Unfortunately, all it takes is one significant mistake for a college-bound high school student to significantly reduce their chances of achieving their goal. Getting arrested for an alleged drug offense can cause complications in high school and when applying for college.
Parents who want to help their young adults fight back against unfair accusations or learn from a foolish mistake may believe that a drug conviction may end a young adult’s college ambitions. Is that always the case?
Policies have changed in recent years
Many parents may remember the strict federal drug policies in place when they applied for college. Specifically, they may recall how the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) requires a disclosure of criminal convictions.
Years ago, federal policy prevented college students with a drug conviction from qualifying for any federal student aid, regardless of the severity of the offense or how much time had passed. A possession offense was enough to leave a young adult ineligible for federal grants and other key forms of financial aid.
Thankfully, lawmakers have since reformed federal policy. A drug conviction no longer affects eligibility for financial aid at the federal level. However, a criminal record can impact eligibility for private and school-based financial aid.
Additionally, it may influence a young adult’s chances of gaining enrollment, especially at competitive colleges. Criminal records could leave a young adult ineligible for participation in college extracurricular activities or on-campus housing. Their record could also diminish their employment opportunities once they secure a degree.
Fighting back against drug charges to minimize the lasting implications of a conviction is often especially important for young adults who have their whole lives ahead of them. Parents concerned about pending juvenile drug charges may want to consult with an attorney familiar with this area of criminal law accordingly.
Contact us today to speak with an experienced defense attorney who understands the stakes and can help you explore your options. We’re here to guide you through the legal process and fight for the best possible outcome for your child.
