What You Need To Know About Juvenile Convictions In California

While a juvenile won’t have as many severe consequences as an adult for most crimes in California, a charge does raise concerns about attending college.

If you have been accused of juvenile crimes in the state of California, one of the first questions you should ask of your Cucamonga criminal defense attorney is how this might affect your educational future. If your goal in life is to start over after this incident by earning a degree, it is important to realize that there are potential limitations that exist for convicted criminals in a college environment.

Challenges Faced by Prospective College Students

Anyone who has a criminal record could face difficulties when applying for housing or school, but this does not mean that your path to going to college is forever blocked. Consulting with a knowledgeable Cucamonga criminal defense attorney as soon as possible after you have been accused will help you to figure out the defense strategy that makes the most sense for helping you to avoid criminal consequences.

Financial Aid Issues

Federal grants and student loans help millions of students go to college every single year. Students use these direct loans and grants to cover the cost of buying books, pay for housing and pay for tuition. However, not every student who has a criminal record will have the options to get loans and grants. If you are convicted of any misdemeanor or felony drug offense, you are ineligible to receive financial aid. However, if the charge involves any other type of felony, you might still be able to qualify financially for grants and loans.

Answering Honestly on College Applications

A recent study found that other 60% of colleges currently evaluate criminal histories and use them in making decisions about applications, however, no formal system is in place for many of these schools. The most important thing you can do is to retain a criminal defense attorney who has a track record of experience in helping those who intend to apply for college in the future.