Just because your child is in college doesn’t mean they will always make wise choices. Their brains won’t fully mature until they’re about 25 years old. Until then, they are more likely to take risks.
While they understand many of the reasons for not driving while drunk, they may not fully grasp all the ways a DUI can affect them throughout their entire lives.
It goes well beyond the fines
The immediate cost of a DUI includes hefty fines and court costs. In addition, they may see dramatically increased car insurance rates, or the provider could even refuse to cover the individual, forcing them to purchase an expensive policy for high-risk drivers.
A DUI conviction can also disrupt their academic life. Many scholarships have strict codes of conduct that recipients must adhere to in order to remain eligible. If a DUI violation occurs, your student’s financial aid package may be revoked. They may need to take out additional student loans to cover the cost of their education.
Many colleges have disciplinary boards that address student behavior, even for incidents that happen off-campus. Depending on the school’s policies, a DUI conviction could result in probation or suspension.
A DUI arrest also means mandatory court dates, possible jail time and community service. The student may need to miss classes, which could impact their GPA if attendance is factored into their final class grade.
The legal ramifications of a DUI charge can be severe. A conviction often results in a permanent criminal record. Employers and graduate schools often conduct background checks, and having a DUI can raise red flags. Many companies are hesitant to hire someone with a DUI, particularly for positions that involve driving or a high level of responsibility. A career in law, healthcare or education may suddenly become unattainable for your student.
The best way to avoid the collateral consequences of a DUI is to prevent the situation from happening in the first place. If your college student is facing a DUI charge, they should speak with an experienced legal professional. They can work with your college student on a strong defense and advocate on their behalf to plead down to a lesser charge or have it dropped altogether. A mistake like a DUI shouldn’t necessitate the end of their future aspirations.