Every parent hopes their college student makes good decisions, but young people often make mistakes or get swept up in their friends’ activities. Unfortunately, the consequences of a conviction can have serious long-term consequences. If your college student has been accused of a crime, below are a few reasons to invest in a criminal defense attorney.

3 Reasons to Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney for Your College Student

1. A Conviction Could Impact Their Education

Many colleges and universities have codes of conduct with standards of evidence lower than the criminal justice system. Depending on the policies of their school, they might be suspended until the conclusion of the case, potentially causing them to miss several months of class. If convicted, they might also lose scholarships, their spot on athletic teams, or other opportunities.

2. College Students May Not Understand the Law

At some point, your child will need to make a statement to the police. Without an understanding of their rights or the law, they may accidentally say something that harms their case. A criminal defense attorney has the experience to walk your child through the process, acting as their advocate and protecting their interests.

3. A Criminal Record Can Affect Career Choices

A criminal history, even for relatively minor misdemeanors, could derail your child’s career before it’s begun. Many fields, such as health care, education, or law enforcement, are difficult to get into if you’ve been convicted of a crime. However, a criminal record can make job hunting difficult in other industries as well.

If your college student has been accused of a crime, Gary C. Mitchell, P.C. in Ruidoso will provide the best defense possible. Since 1977, this law firm has fought for the rights of defendants throughout New Mexico, building an impressive track record of results in a variety of situations. Visit their website to learn more about your legal rights, or call (575) 257-3070 to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney.