Depending on your school's schedule, spring break is any point between February and April. For many students, this respite from school is an opportunity to engage in travel, partying, and relaxing activities. Unfortunately, spring break misbehavior has real-life consequences, and for some of them, you could need guidance from a criminal defense attorney. To avoid trouble that could stay with you for life, the below guide details the consequences that could arise.

What You Should Know About Spring Break Fallout

Common Offenses

For some college students, spring break out as a party but becomes a nightmare. One practice common to underage spring breakers is the use of a fake ID to buy alcohol or get into a bar. Few realize that the use of a fake ID is a crime that carries serious consequences. Other common offenses involve underage drinking, drug use, and driving under the influence (DUI).

Legal Consequences

In Ohio, use or possession of a false identification card is a third-degree misdemeanor. This is punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500. Underage drinking is a first-degree misdemeanor, and it could land you in jail for 60 days and cost you up to $1000 in fines. Driving under the influence is also severe. For those over 21, a blood alcohol content of 0.08% can land you in jail, facing a possible six more months of incarceration, $1000 in fines, loss of your license for six months, community service, and a required DUI safety class. For those under 21, blood alcohol content needs only be 0.02%. If facing these penalties, you will need a defense attorney.

Other Consequences

In addition to legal consequences, you could face additional penalties. For instance, you'll pay more in auto insurance after a DUI conviction. Insurance companies may even deny you coverage. Moreover, if it occurs on campus, an arrest and conviction could get you expelled from school. Even if it doesn't, it will remain on your record and affect your chances of employment after graduation. Therefore, know that spring break consequences could last a lifetime.

If you were arrested during a spring break misadventure, don't head to court without representation by an experienced defense attorney. Contact James F. Bogen, Attorney at Law in  Cincinnati, OH. He is a proven DUI attorney with more than a decade of legal experience, and he can help whether you face an automobile or boating DUI. He and his team also handle drug offenses and other criminal law cases. Visit the website to view his practice areas, or call (513) 503-7251 to schedule a consultation.