Trusted Advice For Over 30 Years In South-Central Indiana

Don’t Let A Criminal Record Ruin Your Academic Opportunities

The college experience is often portrayed as a carefree time of personal growth, exploration and independence. However, the reality is that many students find themselves in need of college student defense while facing legal troubles that can derail their academic journey and cast a long shadow over their future prospects.

From minor indiscretions like underage drinking or disorderly conduct to more serious allegations of drug possession or violent crimes, the consequences of a criminal conviction can be severe and far-reaching. This can be even more distressing to foreign students, who potentially jeopardize their ability to continue studying in America due to one careless mistake.

I’m attorney Paul D. Baugh. With more than 30 years of experience serving the criminal defense needs of clients in Bloomington and the rest of south-central Indiana, I have the experience and legal know-how to protect your rights in court.

I Handle The Most Common College Crime Cases

Whether you’re a college student facing criminal offense allegations or the parent of one, I can help you understand your current legal situation. I’ll discuss your case with you and find the most appropriate defense options.

Let me help you deal with the following criminal charges:

Whether you are a student at Indiana University or any other institution of higher learning in the state, you can count on me to protect your rights and fight tirelessly for a positive outcome.

Why Should You Hire An Attorney Over Picking A Public Defender?

It might be more affordable for a college student with limited finances to go with a public defender over hiring an attorney. However, there are advantages to working with your own lawyer:

  • Dedicated attention and resources: Private attorneys typically have smaller caseloads compared to overworked public defenders, allowing them to set aside more time and resources for their clients.
  • Experience: Many private criminal defense attorneys have extensive experience handling a variety of cases.
  • Availability: Private attorneys are often more readily available and accessible to their clients, ensuring prompt communication, updates, and the ability to address concerns or questions as they arise.
  • Personalized defense strategy: With more time and resources at their disposal, private attorneys can craft a highly personalized defense strategy tailored to the unique circumstances of the case.
  • Preservation of future opportunities: A private attorney can help minimize the long-term impact of a criminal conviction on a college student’s future educational and career opportunities, which can be particularly crucial for young adults just starting their professional journeys.

At Law Offices of Paul D. Baugh, PC, I’ll maximize my capabilities as a solo practitioner to handle every aspect of your case. Let me constantly update you on any developments in your case and work to ensure your rights are properly represented.

Frequently Asked Questions About College Student Crimes

Criminal laws are very complex, and college students may face unique challenges if they are charged with crimes. With over three decades of experience helping college students facing criminal charges, I have answered many questions. Some of the questions are:

What should I do if I’m a college student charged with a crime?

If you are accused of committing a crime, then you should understand your rights. Your rights may differ when undergoing an investigation and criminal trial than during a university hearing. You have the right to remain silent if arrested by the police, which can protect you from making self-incriminating comments. However, your silence could be used against you during a university hearing. I can educate you on your legal rights and strategize a defense for a criminal trial and prepare you for a university hearing.

How can a criminal charge affect my college enrollment or scholarships?

Many schools will do background checks on students. You can be rejected for admission and may not qualify for many scholarships. If you are already in college, you could lose your federal student aid for a drug offense, and many university scholarships can be rescinded for any criminal issue. You may also be suspended or expelled.

Is it possible to keep a criminal charge off my record while I’m in college?

With the right legal defense, a student suspected of violating laws could have their case dismissed. Another possible option for students who have a criminal record is expungement. Expungement can seal criminal records and limit who can access these documents. This could give students more eligibility for college enrollment and education benefits.

Will a criminal record impact my future career opportunities after graduation?

College students convicted of crimes may find they can not apply for certain jobs, professional licenses and certifications. As a result, a student’s goals could be nearly impossible to obtain. A strong legal defense can help students protect their future.

Can my school discipline me for an off-campus criminal charge?

If a school determines that you violated student policies and conduct codes, then you could face probation, suspension or even expulsion. Even off-campus criminal conduct can lead to punishment. A school may conduct an investigation and require the student to attend a hearing to review their actions and determine discipline.

Discuss Your College Student Defense With Me Today

Call me today at 812-727-7013 or send me an email to discuss the specifics of your college student defense case.