Mistakes happen. What we do after that mistake can change the outcome. When a mistake carries potential criminal charges, how we react plays an even larger role.

In September 2023, a Pennsylvania college student crashed into a house while driving under the influence. He then fled the scene and was apprehended by police a short time later.

You can't change the past or your actions when facing criminal charges. What you can do is minimize the impact the charges have on your life. A criminal defense attorney can help you build your case, including showing extenuating circumstances. The LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team can help. If you're facing a DUI or other criminal charges, contact us at 888-535-3686 or on our website.

Joyride Goes Awry

Only a few weeks after returning to school for his fall semester, Mason J. Muir, a Bucknell University student, drove off the road and crashed into a mailbox, then a parked truck, and finally a house. He then fled the scene on foot.

Fortunately, no one in the house was injured. The damage to the house, however, makes the residence uninhabitable.

After police found him, Muir allegedly spit at a state trooper. Law enforcement at the scene reported that Muir seemed intoxicated and that the student stated he'd smoked marijuana prior to the crash. Muir's blood was tested at a local hospital, and police obtained a search warrant for the results of the blood test.

Subsequent investigation found no skid marks at the scene of the accident, which could mean that Muir didn't attempt to stop or otherwise prevent the accident. Tests also confirmed that Muir had marijuana in his system at the time of the crash.

Muir was charged with multiple misdemeanors, including driving under the influence and an accident involving damage to property. His case is pending.

Misdemeanors Are Crimes

As of 2023, marijuana remains illegal in Pennsylvania. Even if legal, however, driving while under the influence is a misdemeanor in the state.

DUIs have repercussions above and beyond a conviction. Some of the potential ways a DUI can impact your life:

• Increased insurance rates
• Suspended driver's license
• Inability to pass a background check for certain jobs
• Professional or academic issues, such as suspension

College students convicted of a DUI, even if over 21, may face discipline from their college or university. Having a DUI on their record may also make it more difficult to secure employment. A DUI may also bar a student from applying for certain professional licenses.

Limiting the negative impact on your future is one reason why you need to hire a criminal defense attorney. Even if the charges you're facing are misdemeanors, they can have long-lasting repercussions. Pennsylvania, for example, requires teachers to report all criminal convictions, including DUIs, to their local school board.

Protect Your Future

If you're facing a DUI or other misdemeanors, don't assume they aren't a big deal. For college students, misdemeanors could result in a suspension from school and limit their post-college career options.

If you or a loved one is facing a misdemeanor, the LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team can help. Contact us at 888-535-3686 or on our website.