Federal financial aid makes a college education affordable to many people who could not earn a degree without it. As such, students should know that certain drug convictions can interfere with their ability to receive the funds. If you’re in college or planning to attend, below is more information about how these convictions could impact your eligibility, as well as how a criminal defense attorney can help your situation.

How Drug Convictions Affect Federal Student Aid

When does a conviction disqualify me for aid?

To receive a federal aid disqualification, the courts must convict you of possessing or selling illegal drugs. Additionally, the conviction must relate to an arrest that occurred while you were enrolled in school and receiving federal aid. If the charges were outside of the regular school term and you were not in class, your eligibility will remain intact. Also, if you were a minor when receiving the conviction, you may still qualify for funds.

What are the penalties?

The length of ineligibility for federal aid will depend on the total amount of convictions, as well as the type of offense. A first offense for possession will result in a one-year suspension of aid and two years for sale. You will receive a two-year suspension for a second possession offense, and indefinitely for sale. For subsequent offenses of possession, you will lose aid indefinitely.  

How can I regain eligibility?

When you receive a denial for federal aid due to a drug conviction, you can sometimes shorten the ineligibility period. However, you must complete an approved drug rehabilitation program and pass two unannounced drug tests. A criminal defense attorney can also help reinstate eligibility by advocating for the courts to overturn a conviction.

What if I receive a conviction after submitting my federal aid application?

If the courts convict you of drug possession or sale after applying for and receiving federal aid, the government may require you to pay back the funds. For this reason, you should be proactive and speak with a criminal defense attorney about your options for reducing or dismissing charges.

Whether you’re facing drug charges or the consequences of a conviction while seeking financial aid, you can trust James F. Bogen, Attorney at Law to provide sound legal advice and advocate aggressively for you. As a top criminal defense attorney in Cincinnati, OH, he can help determine what actions can protect or reinstate your financial aid eligibility. In practice since 2002, Attorney Bogen has the experience and skills necessary to fight for your rights. Call (513) 503-7251 to schedule a consultation, or visit him online to learn more about his services.