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Talking to Your College Freshman About Avoiding Criminal Convictions

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Talking to Your College Freshman About Avoiding Criminal Convictions

Sending your child off to college is a proud and exciting moment for any parent. It marks the start of their journey toward independence and adulthood. However, college also comes with new challenges and responsibilities, and as a parent, having an open and honest conversation about staying safe and avoiding criminal convictions is crucial. Mistakes made during these formative years can have lasting consequences.

As a Pittsburgh attorney with years of experience defending young adults, I’ve seen how easily college students can find themselves on the wrong side of the law. Here are some practical tips for parents to help guide their college-bound freshman toward making smart decisions and avoiding legal trouble.

1. Discuss the Consequences of Underage Drinking

Underage drinking is one of the most common offenses among college students. Talk to your child about Pennsylvania’s strict alcohol laws, including the potential consequences of a Minor in Possession (MIP) charge. Explain that:

Encourage them to make responsible choices and understand the risks of peer pressure.

2. Educate Them About Drug Laws

College can expose students to situations involving drugs, from marijuana to more dangerous substances. Emphasize the seriousness of drug possession, distribution, and paraphernalia charges. Even a small amount of drugs can lead to significant legal consequences, including jail time and a criminal record that could impact future job opportunities.

3. Talk About Consent and Sexual Misconduct

Consent is a critical topic that every college student must understand. Make sure your child knows that engaging in any sexual activity without clear, enthusiastic consent is not only morally wrong but also a serious crime. Discuss the importance of:

  • Communicating openly and ensuring mutual agreement.
  • Avoiding situations where alcohol or drugs impair judgment.

Help them understand that accusations of sexual misconduct can result in criminal charges and damage their reputation and future.

4. Explain the Risks of Hazing and Bullying

Many college freshmen join clubs, organizations, or Greek life. While these can offer great opportunities, they can also lead to involvement in hazing activities. Pennsylvania’s anti-hazing laws prohibit any act that endangers the physical or mental health of another person as part of an initiation. Encourage your child to:

  • Stand up against hazing and report any incidents.
  • Build friendships and connections without compromising their values or safety.

5. Warn Against Fake IDs

The use of fake IDs to purchase alcohol or gain entry to bars is a common temptation for college students. However, possessing or using a fake ID is a crime in Pennsylvania and can result in fines, community service, and a permanent criminal record. Explain the risks and emphasize that it’s not worth jeopardizing their future.

6. Encourage Responsible Social Media Use

In today’s digital age, social media activity can have real-world consequences. Teach your child to:

  • Avoid posting anything illegal, offensive, or incriminating.
  • Understand that law enforcement and potential employers often review social media profiles.
  • Be cautious about sharing their location and personal information.

7. Teach Them to Handle Confrontations Wisely

College life can sometimes lead to heated arguments or fights, whether at parties or during sporting events. Physical altercations can result in assault charges, even if your child didn’t start the fight. Encourage them to:

  • Walk away from confrontations.
  • Seek help from campus security or authorities if a situation escalates.

8. Encourage Open Communication

Let your child know that they can always reach out to you if they’re in trouble or facing a difficult situation. Remind them that asking for help early can prevent small issues from turning into major problems.

9. Discuss the Importance of Knowing Campus Resources

Most colleges have resources to help students stay safe and make responsible choices. Encourage your child to:

  • Familiarize themselves with campus safety programs.
  • Save emergency contact numbers, including campus police and a trusted attorney.
  • Attend any orientation sessions on student conduct and legal rights.

Final Thoughts about your College Freshman

Starting college is an exciting time, but it’s also a period of significant adjustment and growth. As a parent, having a candid conversation with your child about making smart decisions and avoiding criminal behavior can set the foundation for a successful and trouble-free college experience.

If your college student finds themselves facing legal challenges, it’s important to act quickly. Contact our office today. I’m here to provide compassionate guidance and a strong defense to protect their rights and future. Together, we can work to ensure that one mistake doesn’t define their life.

About Frank Walker Law

Attorney Frank Walker of Frank Walker Law is a National Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyer, and Personal Injury Attorney who has been recognized as a Super Lawyer, a member of the National College for DUI Defense, Best Attorneys in America, Best Law firms of America, America’s Greatest Attorneys, and a Top AVVO Rated attorney, with offices in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and Morgantown West Virginia.

Additionally, you can find Attorney Walker on YouTube, TikTok, the Pittsburgh Attorney Podcast and the West Virginia Attorney Podcast, where he gives legal tips (not advice!) and discusses the pressing legal issues of the day.

If you or someone you love are facing criminal charges or are seriously injured in an accident, contact Attorney Frank Walker immediately at 412-532-6805 (Pittsburgh), 304-413-0179 (Morgantown), 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for aggressive and experienced Criminal Defense or Representation in a Civil Case.