What Will Happen To My College Scholarship If I Am Arrested For A Drug Or Alcohol Crime?

A promising high school or college student could face severe consequences if arrested for a criminal offense involving Drugs or Alcohol. It could mean the loss of a Florida Bright Futures Scholarship, ROTC Scholarship, or other college or university scholarship. It could also mean the loss of a driver’s license. One bad decision or being in the wrong place at the wrong time could result in an untimely brush with the criminal justice system and unwanted legal repercussions could occur as a result.

Most students are unaware of two things: First, they are a little naive of the extent to which local police are constantly patrolling and specifically focusing on vacationers and other out-of-towners that are here trying to enjoy themselves on the beach and having a good time with friends. Second, they are completely oblivious of the fact that they could be arrested and taken to jail for something seemingly trivial like drinking on the beach.

The truth is that the zero-tolerance scrutiny of Florida Police during spring break and summer can be much greater than what students experience even on campus. In addition, the consequences can be horrible. On campus, a student is cited or “written up” on a reprimand with criminal charges rarely ever filed. But here in Okaloosa or Walton County, those same offenses are met with a far harsher penalty which can have lasting effects on one’s education, career, and criminal record.

So if you or a loved one is arrested for a crime, the best thing you can do is contact a local criminal defense attorney that practices law in the specific county where you were arrested. Attorney Shawn Lupella has practiced law for many years in Okaloosa County and Walton County and is available 24/7 to help those arrested while on vacation in Destin, Fort Walton Beach, and throughout the Florida Panhandle. Offering free consultations, help is only a phone call away. (850) 362-6655.