Not only can a DWI conviction have a lasting impact on your employment opportunities, but it can also have a negative effect on your academics. Whether you are in high school or enrolled in college, there are several ways a conviction, and even an arrest, can harm your future.
Denial of College Applications
When you apply for admission into a university, the application will ask you if you have ever been convicted of a criminal offense. You are required to disclose your DWI.
This could result in a school simply denying your application because of your criminal record. They do not need to provide justification for this action. Some colleges have a policy against admitting any student who has been convicted of a crime.
However, some schools may accept your application, but take your conviction into account when deciding whether or not to admit you. They may have another applicant with a similar academic resume but a spotless criminal record, which means he/she will be placed ahead of you.
It is imperative not to lie on your application. Even after a university accepts you, they can still perform a background check and discover your conviction. Be honest, there are some schools—such as community colleges and technical schools—who don’t take a DWI conviction into consideration.
Expulsion or Suspension
Schools may have a policy in which enrolled students are required to report crimes to the school within a certain timeframe. Failure to do so may result in suspension or expulsion. In the event of a DWI conviction, it can lead to immediate expulsion.
Loss of Financial Aid or Scholarship
There are many federal programs that will not provide financial aid to students with felony DWI convictions. Some private scholarships or financial aid programs only deny students with felony convictions, while others are concerned about arrests and charges. If you are a college athlete, a DWI arrest or conviction can result in being suspended from a number of games or dismissed from the team altogether.
Indirect Consequences
If you are a current college student and a DWI conviction doesn’t result in any punishment from the university, the penalties for the crime will indirectly affect your attendance and grades. For example, if you are ordered to serve jail time, this will prevent you from attending your classes, resulting in your grades dropping.
Defense for College Student DWI in MN
If you are a college student in Minnesota and are facing a DWI charge, Brockton D. Hunter, P.A. is ready to protect your rights and future. We can review your case, determine your legal options, and build an effective defense strategy on your behalf. Do not hesitate to get experienced and skilled legal representation on your side during this stressful and confusing time.
For more information, contact us and schedule a consultation today.