If you’re returning to school from winter break with an unwanted DUI charge, you’re not alone. It’s not unusual for a high school or college student to get their first DUI after a holiday party or a day of watching football with friends or family over the long break.
Unfortunately, too many people don’t want to deal with the inconvenience of finding someone to be their designated driver or the expense of getting an Uber. Those pale in comparison to what happens if you’re arrested for drunk driving.
The consequences for school and beyond
No matter your age, a DUI or other impaired driving conviction like “underage driving while impaired” can have a serious effect on your life now and into the future. If you’re not yet in college, it could limit your school options. If you’re applying for scholarships or other financial aid, a drunk driving conviction can harm your chances of approval.
If you’re already in college, it’s possible to lose some forms of financial aid after a conviction. It could also get you removed from a team or other group. A DUI, particularly if you’re charged as an adult, can cause complications if you’re planning a career where background checks are required or you need to be licensed.
What to do if you’re facing a drunk driving charge
If you’ve been charged with DUI or other impaired driving offense, it’s smart to get legal guidance as soon as possible – certainly before you’re scheduled to appear in court for a hearing. If you’re planning to go it alone and plead guilty, you’re giving up your chance of getting the charge dropped or reduced to a lesser charge that doesn’t carry the stigma and consequences of a DUI.
With drunk driving arrests, there are plenty of opportunities to question the evidence, such as how the breathalyzer test was administered and even if the traffic stop was legal. You may also be able to get your driver’s license back, at least on a limited basis. That license is a necessity for many students. With experienced legal guidance, you can explore your options and work toward a more favorable outcome than a conviction for drunk driving.