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Facing Criminal Accusations as a College Student? Here's What You Need to Know

Posted by Joseph D. Lento | Nov 20, 2024 | 0 Comments

The recent sentencing of two former Penn State fraternity leaders serves as a sobering reminder of how campus activities can lead to serious criminal charges. Brendan Young and Daniel Casey, former leaders of Beta Theta Pi fraternity, were sentenced to 2-4 months in jail for their roles in the 2017 hazing death of 19-year-old Timothy Piazza. The engineering student consumed at least 18 drinks in less than two hours during a pledging event, leading to fatal injuries after falling down basement stairs. This tragic case prompted Pennsylvania to strengthen its anti-hazing laws, making severe hazing a felony offense. The case also highlights how college students can face both criminal charges and university disciplinary action for the same incident. In this case, the defendants faced criminal prosecution, and Penn State permanently banned the fraternity chapter.

This case serves as a grim reminder that criminal accusations on college campuses can have far-reaching consequences. Whether you're facing criminal charges related to hazing, underage drinking, or another offense, the stakes are high. The LLF Law Firm's Criminal Defense Team has the experience and dedication to help you achieve the best possible outcome. Contact us today at 888.535.3686 or through our online form to start building your defense and fighting for your future.

Student Defense: Protecting Your Future

Philadelphia is home to numerous universities, and for many students, college is their first experience living independently. Unfortunately, this newfound freedom can sometimes lead to trouble—both with the law and the university. Criminal charges can have severe consequences for your academic and professional future, making it crucial to have an experienced attorney by your side.

Students facing criminal charges in Philadelphia often must defend themselves on two fronts: in criminal court and in university disciplinary hearings. A "not guilty" verdict in court does not necessarily mean the university won't take action against you. Universities often have their own codes of conduct, and violations can result in suspension, expulsion, or other penalties. Even if the charges are minor, like underage drinking or hazing, the impact on your education can be significant.

Some common criminal charges that students face include:

  • Drug Crimes: Possession or use of illegal substances can lead to both criminal charges and disciplinary action from the university.
  • Violent Crimes: Incidents involving assault or fighting can result in both university penalties and criminal charges.
  • Hazing: While some may see it as a part of fraternity or sorority life, hazing can lead to criminal charges and the dissolution of student organizations.
  • Fake I.D. Possession: Attempting to buy alcohol with a fake ID is a criminal offense that can also violate university policies.
  • Sex Crimes: Sexual assault and harassment accusations are treated seriously both by the law and under Title IX regulations, which can result in expulsion from the university.

Facing criminal charges as a student is daunting. A skilled defense attorney can make the difference between staying on track with your academic career or facing life-altering consequences. The LLF Law Firm has extensive experience defending students in both criminal and university proceedings.

Why You Need a Strong Legal Defense

If you're a student facing criminal accusations, your education, career, and future are all on the line. Don't navigate this complex legal terrain alone. An experienced attorney can help you fight both criminal charges and university disciplinary actions, ensuring the best possible outcome. The LLF Law Firm's Criminal Defense Team will fight for you. Contact us today at 888.535.3686 or through our online form to discuss your case. Your future is too important to leave to chance.

About the Author

Joseph D. Lento

"I pride myself on having heart and driving hard to get results!" Attorney Joseph D. Lento passionately fights for the futures of his clients in criminal courtrooms in Philadelphia and across Pennsylvania as well as in New Jersey and nationwide. He does not settle for the easiest outcome, and instead prioritizes his clients' needs and well-being. With unparalleled experience occupying several roles in the criminal justice system outside of being an attorney, Joseph D. Lento can give you valuable behind-the-scenes insight as to what is happening during all phases of the legal process. Joseph D. Lento is licensed in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York, and is admitted pro hac vice as needed nationwide. In the courtroom and in life, attorney Joseph D. Lento stands up when the bell rings!

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The LLF Law Firm Team has decades of experience successfully resolving clients' criminal charges in Philadelphia and the Pennsylvania counties. If you are having any uncertainties about what the future may hold for you or a loved one, contact the LLF Law Firm today! Our Criminal Defense Team will go above and beyond the needs of any client, and will fight until the final bell rings.

This website was created only for general information purposes. It is not intended to be construed as legal advice for any situation. Only a direct consultation with a licensed Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York attorney can provide you with formal legal counsel based on the unique details surrounding your situation. The pages on this website may contain links and contact information for third party organizations - the Lento Law Firm does not necessarily endorse these organizations nor the materials contained on their website. In Pennsylvania, Attorney Joseph D. Lento represents clients throughout Pennsylvania's 67 counties, including, but not limited to Philadelphia, Allegheny, Berks, Bucks, Carbon, Chester, Dauphin, Delaware, Lancaster, Lehigh, Monroe, Montgomery, Northampton, Schuylkill, and York County. In New Jersey, attorney Joseph D. Lento represents clients throughout New Jersey's 21 counties: Atlantic, Bergen, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Essex, Gloucester, Hudson, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, Passaic, Salem, Somerset, Sussex, Union, and Warren County, In New York, Attorney Joseph D. Lento represents clients throughout New York's 62 counties. Outside of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York, unless attorney Joseph D. Lento is admitted pro hac vice if needed, his assistance may not constitute legal advice or the practice of law. The decision to hire an attorney in Philadelphia, the Pennsylvania counties, New Jersey, New York, or nationwide should not be made solely on the strength of an advertisement. We invite you to contact the Lento Law Firm directly to inquire about our specific qualifications and experience. Communicating with the Lento Law Firm by email, phone, or fax does not create an attorney-client relationship. The Lento Law Firm will serve as your official legal counsel upon a formal agreement from both parties. Any information sent to the Lento Law Firm before an attorney-client relationship is made is done on a non-confidential basis.

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