College students make mistakes, but some choices carry more serious consequences. A dorm room drug arrest in Florida can do more than shake up your student’s semester. It can derail their academic path, future career, and even their eligibility for housing.
The legal process begins quickly
Once campus police or local law enforcement get involved, things move fast. Officers may search the room with a warrant, with consent, or under exceptions to school policy. If they find illegal substances, your student could face charges right away. Possession of even a small amount may lead to a misdemeanor or felony depending on the type of drug and amount.
Florida Statute 775.082 outlines sentencing guidelines, and the consequences are severe. Penalties can include probation, jail time, fines, and mandatory drug counseling. In some cases, the state may offer a pretrial diversion program that can protect the student’s record by having the case dismissed. But eligibility isn’t guaranteed, and if the case is not handled in the right way may lead to a conviction that stays on their criminal record.
School discipline may follow arrest
Colleges don’t wait for court decisions. They often launch their own investigations under the student code of conduct. This can lead to suspension, removal from campus housing, or expulsion. The school’s process operates independently of the criminal case and employs a lower standard of proof. So even if charges are dropped, consequences may still follow at school.
Some Florida schools also report offenses to licensing boards, especially for students in health, law, or education programs. This can cause long-term problems that aren’t immediately apparent.
Impact extends beyond the classroom
A drug charge can affect eligibility for federal student aid. Under Florida law, a conviction may disqualify students from certain scholarships and student housing. In addition to the potential of being expelled, future housing leases, internships, and future employment may also be at risk. Parents and students both often underestimate the wide-ranging ripple effects that can spread from a single arrest.
Protecting your student’s future matters
Florida doesn’t take drug crimes lightly, even for first-time college students. The legal and academic consequences often work in tandem and overlap. It’s important to understand what’s at stake before these charges reshape your student’s future.
If your student has been arrested, don’t wait. The team of experienced attorneys at the Law Firm of Scott T. Moorey are the best local advocates for students facing criminal charges. Their in-depth understanding of Florida law and local campus procedures makes them the trusted choice for protecting your student’s future. Contact our team today to schedule a confidential consultation by calling 239.275.5552.
