College is often the first time that teenagers are out on their own. While college campuses can provide stability and security, students are still able to make their own choices, independent of parental supervision. For many college students, this freedom comes with the experimentation to figure out who they are, and unfortunately, that can include drug use.
Messaging around drugs and paraphernalia can be casual or lax, so college students aren’t aware of the very serious consequences that come with drug use on college campuses. It can be viewed as part of the growing-up process or just a social activity. Addiction, possession, distribution, or even selling minor amounts of drugs can have lifelong effects. As college students are 18 or over, they are no longer tried in juvenile court and can carry a criminal record into the start of their professional careers.
Know the risks of drug charges for Maryland college students and what comes next. As a parent, guardian, or student yourself, knowing the legal consequences can better prepare everyone for what comes next.
Need representation? Saller Law handles drug-related defense in Maryland. Contact us today. We can help protect your future.
Disclaimer: articles on sallerlaw.com are not intended as legal advice and should not be taken as such, please consult an attorney for advice about your individual situation.
Drug Use in College Students
What are we referring to when we discuss drug use for college students? It’s easy for college kids to shrug away warnings because they don’t consider themselves at risk. College kids will say they don’t sell illegal substances, they’re not a dealer, or they don’t use heavy drugs, so there’s nothing to worry about. They will defend one-time use at a party or say that certain drugs aren’t “real” drugs, so nothing will happen. This is why knowing the risks of drug use for college students is so important.
The truth is that both controlled substances and illegal drugs can put college students at risk for legal consequences, even if used in small amounts or only on occasion.
- Controlled substances, including prescription drugs without a prescription, for focus or late-night study sessions
- Hallucinogens, like LSD, during parties or to unwind
- “Party drugs” like ecstasy or cocaine to experiment or in social situations
- Possessing marijuana paraphernalia, including bongs or bowls
- Selling to only a friend or two; any exchange of money for drugs
- Drug possession on school campus, including vehicles parked on school grounds
The Risks of Drug Use for College Students
Legal Consequences
The first consequence college students face when using drugs, on or off campus, is legal consequences. This includes arrest, drug charges, and the possibility of a criminal record.
Legal action for drug use or possession of drugs or paraphernalia can range from anything from a simple warning to jail time. Based on the drugs found in possession and the quantity of drugs, charges could include intent to distribute or possession of a controlled substance. Large quantities or scheduled 1 drugs may carry jail time. If found guilty, a person may have to disclose their criminal record on all future applications, including professional, educational, and even for financial aid or grants.
While marijuana may be recreationally legal in Maryland, high quantities may be found guilty of intent to distribute. In some cases, marijuana paraphernalia is still illegal to possess. Be mindful of use and possession of marijuana, in addition to all other controlled substances.
Financial Consequences
If arrested and charged with a drug crime in Maryland, a student may also face heavy fines. This may be related to possession, distribution, or even paraphernalia. Maryland fines for drug use can begin at a few hundred dollars and escalate to thousands of dollars based on the crime.
Outside of criminal fines, which the student is responsible for, college students may also face loss of financial aid, housing assistance, or even grants. Many of these are dependent on good standing, both academically and legally. The risks of drug use for college students can quickly compromise their ability to pay for school without hefty loans or afford on-campus housing.
Educational Consequences
Many college campuses have their own rules and regulations for drug use, especially on school property. Most often, there is a no-tolerance policy, meaning there can be no use, possession, or distribution. This includes in student housing or anything in a college student’s car parked on campus.
If found with drugs or drug paraphernalia, even without a criminal charge, a college or university may choose to evict a student, suspend them, or even expel them. This can lead to the loss of thousands of dollars in tuition, declining GPA, and more. Students may struggle to resume their college education or get back on track to finish their degree.
Future Applications
If found guilty of a drug charge, a college student may need to disclose this information for the rest of their life. This will greatly harm their applications for graduate programs, financial aid, grants, or even professional careers. They may be excluded from certain opportunities that favor students in good legal standing vs those with a criminal record. Even ten years down the line, a drug charge can impact future careers and possibilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can college students in Maryland be arrested for possessing a small amount of marijuana?
Yes. Although Maryland has legalized cannabis for adults 21 and older, there are still restrictions on possession and use. College students under 21, possession beyond legal limits, possession in prohibited circumstances, or other drug-related conduct can still create legal problems. Students should not assume that being on a college campus makes marijuana possession automatically legal.
Can a drug charge affect my college education or financial aid?
Yes. A drug-related arrest or conviction may lead to consequences outside the criminal justice system, including college disciplinary proceedings, housing issues, academic consequences, or problems with certain financial aid or professional licensing requirements. The severity of impact depends on the circumstances and the student’s school and program.
Can I get in trouble if drugs are found in my dorm room or car but they aren’t mine?
Yes. Simply claiming that the drugs belong to someone else does not necessarily prevent an investigation or charge. Police and prosecutors may consider factors such as where the drugs were found, who had access to the location, and other evidence connecting a person to the drugs.
What happens if a college student is caught with prescription drugs that weren’t prescribed to them?
Possessing or sharing someone else’s prescription medication can create serious legal consequences, even if the student believes the medication is relatively harmless. Certain prescription drugs are controlled substances, and transferring or possessing them without authorization can potentially result in criminal charges. Both the prescription owner and the one found in possession can face legal or educational consequences.
Can I be charged with a crime for sharing drugs with a friend?
Yes. Giving, selling, or otherwise distributing a controlled substance can expose a student to more serious consequences than simple possession. The fact that no money changed hands does not necessarily mean there is no legal risk. Criminal charges may still include intent to distribute or distribution, resulting in heavy fines, a criminal record, and possible jail time.
What should I do if police want to question me about drugs?
A student should remain calm and avoid making statements to the police simply because they believe explaining the situation will make the problem disappear. Students generally have the right to remain silent and can ask to speak with an attorney before answering questions. Do not consent to a search without understanding your rights, and do not physically interfere with law enforcement.
Should I talk to a Maryland drug defense attorney if I haven’t been charged yet?
Yes. It can be beneficial to speak with an attorney as early as possible, particularly if police have contacted you, you received a campus disciplinary notice, or you believe you are being investigated. Early legal advice can help a student understand the potential criminal and college-related consequences and avoid making decisions that could unnecessarily complicate the situation. Saller Law offers consultations for college students facing drug charges.
A Drug Defense Lawyer Can Help – Call Today
Never assume that you can handle a drug charge alone. It may seem like no big deal or an easy case, but if found guilty of a criminal drug charge, college students risk a lifetime of limitations that they will need to navigate. A drug defense lawyer for college students can help with the legal and academic fallout, ensuring the best possible future.
Saller Law in Baltimore, MD, understands the risks of drug use in college students and is here to help. We can critically examine evidence, past reputation, and academic standing to help argue on behalf of a favorable outcome. We work to protect your future.
