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Possession of a controlled substance may be one of the least serious drug offenses, but a conviction may still have serious ramifications that can impact several areas of your life. This is especially true for college students, some of whom may find their academic careers and other ambitions derailed by a single conviction. Because the consequences can be so severe, young people should always consult with a skilled defense attorney before deciding on a course of action.

How Drug Possession Charges Can Impact College Students

1. Criminal Penalties

defense attorneyThe specific penalties for drug possession vary from state to state, but in most cases, you will have to pay a fine and may face lengthy prison sentences. In Ohio, having small amounts of marijuana or hashish is a minor misdemeanor, while possession of larger quantities or harder drugs is considered a serious felony, punishable by large fines and several years in prison.

One thing to keep in mind is that even though a minor misdemeanor marijuana possession charge does not put your freedom in jeopardy (it carries a maximum penalty of a $150.00 fine in Ohio), there can still be undesirable consequences.  First, when you pay the ticket by mail or plead “Guilty” or “No Contest” in court, things get complicated when it shows up on a background check by an employer.  This is because the charge will show up on a background check as a “Drug Possession” or “Drug Abuse” charge.  Background check printouts do not differentiate between a minor misdemeanor marijuana charge and felony drug possession/abuse charges for harder drugs like heroin or cocaine (they are all under the same section of the Ohio Revised Code).

2. Loss of Student Aid

Recipients of federal grants, student loans, or work-study programs can actually lose their financial aid after a conviction for possession or other drug offenses. Without these vital resources, many students are unable to continue their education and may be forced to abandon their studies until their eligibility for aid is reinstated.

3. Limited Opportunities

Some consequences of drug convictions don’t fully emerge until years later, potentially after you’ve graduated. For instance, competitive master’s programs may pass on students with a conviction on their records, and a criminal history may bar you from employment in some sectors. To protect your future, it may be worthwhile to hire a defense attorney, even for a seemingly minor offense.

 

If you’ve been charged with drug possession or any other criminal offense, you deserve an aggressive defense attorney who has the experience to fight for your rights. For over a decade, James F. Bogen, Attorney at Law, has provided zealous representation to defendants throughout the Cincinnati, OH, area, establishing an impressive track record of results. Visit their website to learn more about their services and expertise, follow them on Twitter for legal tips and updates, or call (513) 503-7251 to speak with a defense attorney today.

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