Even if it does not result in jail time, a criminal conviction can negatively impact your future. A conviction on your criminal record may prevent you from entering certain professions or make it more difficult to obtain employment after you leave school.
Attempting to represent yourself in court is a bad idea, particularly in a criminal case. The law is complicated, and without legal representation, you may make mistakes that are difficult or impossible to recover from.
College Student Criminal Defense Attorneys in Gainesville
The law firm of Avera & Smith vigorously represents students who are accused of crimes while attending North Florida universities, colleges and schools. We work diligently to protect our clients’ rights, keep them out of jail and avoid adverse effects on their career prospects. You can depend on our attorneys for skillful advocacy at all stages of the legal process.
Avera & Smith has extensive experience representing people accused of misdemeanors and felony crimes. We defend people facing the following charges and more:
- DUI
- Drug crimes, including drug possession and drug trafficking
- Underage drinking and fake IDs
- Vandalism and criminal mischief
- Theft and shoplifting
- Assault crimes
Whenever possible, we try to get charges dropped or dismissed early in the process, saving our clients time and money and lessening their anxiety. Our goal in your case will be to help you avoid conviction and to minimize the long-term impact on your life. In cases that do not result in a conviction, we may also be able to obtain an expungement, or sealing of your record, which can prevent prospective employers from learning of your arrest.
Representing You Before the University Dean of Students Office
In addition to the criminal charge, you may also face disciplinary action at your school, including possible reprimand, probation, suspension or expulsion. Avera & Smith represents students in disciplinary hearings at the University of Florida and other colleges and schools in our area.
Our attorneys have a working understanding of the disciplinary process of the Office of Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution at the University of Florida Dean of Students Office. We will work to avoid or minimize any adverse consequences arising from your arrest. In your final year at the University, it may even be possible to expunge your university conduct record of all information concerning your hearing.