Getting arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs can seem like a private matter but there are situations when it can impact other areas of life. Doctors can find their medical license at risk, those who use a commercial drivers’ license can find their job at risk and even college students can find themselves facing repercussions that directly impact their education and professional opportunities. The following will provide information on the real world impact of a DUI on college students and tips to help mitigate these risks.
How will my college or university find out?
Schools can learn about a DUI through several channels. Notification rules vary by state, campus policy and location of the incident but can include:
- Campus police reports for incidents on campus property
- Court records accessible to the public
- Self reporting required by a student conduct code, scholarship agreement or athletic handbook
- Reports from residence life, Greek life advisors, teammates or field placement supervisors
Each pathway has a different timeline. A campus report can reach the dean quickly while a court case can take months. It is helpful for students in this situation to review the school’s code and student handbook for guidance.
How does the disciplinary process typically work?
There are two pathways the student must address in this situation. First, the criminal charges. They must build a defense and prepare to fight the charges. Next, the administrative process for the university or college. This may include:
- Notice of allegations with meeting date
- Interim measures such as housing changes, no contact orders and activity limits
- Conduct meeting with an investigator, hearing officer and panel
- Outcome letter with sanctions, deadlines and appeal rights
This process can move faster than the criminal case or the school may pause pending court results. Many proceed based on available information. Sanctions can include alcohol education, probation, loss of privileges, suspension and even expulsion.
How can a DUI impact housing, Greek life, athletics and scholarships?
A DUI can also trigger a response from other systems that impact college life. Housing contracts often treat alcohol violations as lease issues. Greek life can impose chapter discipline. Athletics can apply team rules, conference rules and NCAA compliance expectations. Scholarships can include morality clauses, good standing requirements and arrest reporting obligations. This can result in:
- Removal from campus housing
- Social probation, event restrictions, loss of leadership roles
- Team suspension, travel restrictions, mandatory evaluation, conditioning penalties
- Scholarship review, funding pause, renewal denial for conduct probation
A DUI can reach your school, even without a direct report from law enforcement. The school administration housing, Greek life, athletics and scholarships can all be affected. An attorney with experience in this area of law can help to build a defense to the charges while also providing guidance to reduce the impact on your education and future professional opportunities.
