Drug charges can come with some serious consequences, including fines, rehabilitation programs, and jail time. A student convicted of a drug-related offense can also jeopardize their federal financial aid eligibility, forcing them to reconsider their educational plans and goals. Use this guide to learn how a drug conviction might impact financial aid and how an attorney can help.

How Drug Charges Affect Financial Aid

A student must be convicted of drug charges for their financial aid to be suspended. An acquittal of charges or a conviction that was thrown out will not impact the student's funding. Also, if the offense was committed when the student was a minor, their eligibility is unaffected, regardless of the charges.

Eligibility is only suspended for students who were convicted of a drug charge while receiving federal financial aid. If the charges were incurred when the student was not receiving support, they remain eligible for future funding.

If a student has been convicted of a first-offense drug crime, they are ineligible for aid for one year in cases of possession and two years in cases of drug sales. For a second offense, they are ineligible for two years for possession convictions and indefinitely for sales convictions.

If a student is convicted of a drug crime after submitting the FAFSA form, they can lose eligibility. They may be asked to return any funding they received during the period of ineligibility.

What to Do If Your Child Is Facing Drug Charges

Hiring an attorney can help you navigate the process and receive the best possible outcome. An attorney can design a legal strategy to secure an acquittal or have the charges thrown out.

Students convicted of drug charges have two options for restoring their aid eligibility. They can complete an approved drug rehabilitation program, or they can successfully pass two unannounced drug tests.

An attorney will protect your child's rights and work to ensure their future educational plans are not derailed by drug charges. Ronald D. Zipp, Attorney at Law, has served the New Braunfels, TX, area for more than 40 years. He offers representation in criminal defenses, family law cases, and general practice issues. Call (830) 629-5600 or visit his website to schedule a consultation.