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College is a time of exploration for many young people, but some students are unprepared for the responsibilities that go along with greater independence. A little too much celebrating can result in drug charges that will require the expertise of a lawyer to defend against. It can also lead to difficulties in qualifying for the financial aid needed to continue the student’s education.

How Will Drug Charges Affect Financial Aid Eligibility?

A drug charge won’t necessarily affect your child’s ability to obtain financial aid in the coming semester, providing a lawyer can help your child avoid a conviction. A charge for a drug-related offense under the criminal law statutes may be set aside, depending on the individual’s situation. If it has been set aside, or if the trial resulted in a “not guilty” verdict, the incident will not affect the student’s ability to qualify for aid.

LawyerHowever, if the student is unable to circumvent a guilty conviction, the student may be disqualified from getting aid. The FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid, form specifically asks if the student has received a drug-related conviction. If the answer is yes, aid might be denied for the coming term.

What Can Be Done to Counteract the Effects of a Drug Charge? 

If your child must report a conviction on their FAFSA form, they may still be able to continue their education. If your family can finance the coming semester through other means, this may not inhibit their ability to continue attending the school.

Otherwise, they can reapply for aid for the following semester. To be successful, your child will have to attend a drug rehab program from an accredited institution. The student will also have to supply proof that they have successfully completed the treatment program before reapplying for financial aid.

 

Above all, it’s important for your child to consult a lawyer when they’re facing drug charges. Even misdemeanor ones can carry stiff penalties, so the expertise of Osborne, Tripp & Schmidt in Sparta, WI, can be beneficial. Their familiarity with the legal system and experience negotiating with prosecutors will improve your child’s chances of arriving at a favorable outcome. To obtain a case evaluation with one of their attorneys, schedule an appointment online or by calling (608) 269-2400.

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