Common Arrests Involving College Students in Michigan

Each fall, arrests involving students rise sharply. Whether it’s a tailgate party that got out of hand or a walk home gone wrong, students often find themselves facing charges like:

• Minor in Possession (MIP) of Alcohol
• Operating While Intoxicated (OWI)
• Disorderly Conduct or Public Intoxication
• Possession of Fake ID
• Marijuana Possession or Use (underage or on campus)
• Assault or Resisting Arrest

Michigan law can be harsh, especially when alcohol or drugs are involved. Even a first offense can result in a criminal record, court-ordered classes, fines, license suspension, or worse. It’s crucial to understand that colleges often initiate their own disciplinary process after an arrest, so you could face academic penalties alongside your court case.

What to Do Immediately After the Arrest

Stay Calm, But Don’t Wait

The biggest mistake we see students make is waiting too long to get help. Don’t wait for the school to email you or for your court date to come in the mail—use this time wisely.

Within days of a September arrest, you will likely receive a “Notice to Appear” from the local court. If your arrest happened in a college town like Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, Lansing, or Kalamazoo, you’ll be dealing with judges who see hundreds of student arrests every year. You need someone who can guide you through the specific court procedures for that area.

Call an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney

Michigan criminal defense lawyer Aaron J. Boria has handled numerous cases involving college students throughout the state. His expertise ranges from OWI cases to drug possession and assault. The sooner you talk to Aaron, the sooner you can protect your future.

Call (734) 453-7806 today for a free consultation or criminal defense assistance.

Don’t Talk to the Police or Investigators On Your Own

Remember, anything you say can be used against you—even if you think you’re helping yourself. Politely decline to answer police or administration questions until you’ve spoken to your lawyer. Even saying “I was just holding it for a friend” can ruin your defense.

The Legal Process in Michigan: What to Expect

1. Arraignment

This is typically your first court appearance. You’ll be formally charged, and the judge will set bond conditions. If you hire legal representation ahead of time, your attorney may be able to waive your physical appearance in some courts.

At this stage, penalties may include travel or alcohol restrictions, especially in OWI and MIP cases. If not properly addressed, it could even affect your housing or enrollment status.

2. Pre-Trial Conference

This is where your attorney and the prosecutor begin negotiating. If you qualify for a first-time offender deferral, like Michigan’s 7411 (for drug crimes) or HYTA (for certain felonies and misdemeanors committed before age 26), this is the stage where those legal tools are explored and pursued.

It’s not just about sidestepping jail time—these options can help keep your record clean and preserve your future job and graduate school prospects.

3. Trial or Resolution

A skilled attorney will thoroughly investigate whether there were legal errors—like an improper traffic stop, an unlawful search, or mishandling of evidence. If there's a flaw in the prosecution’s case, charges can be reduced or dismissed.

If going to trial isn’t in your best interest, your lawyer may negotiate a deal that avoids the worst outcomes, such as suspension, felony charges, or jail time.

Possible School Discipline for College Arrests

Following criminal charges, most Michigan colleges and universities have separate disciplinary processes. This means you can face penalties from your school—even if your case is reduced or dismissed in court.

Campus Judicial Hearings

Colleges may call for a hearing or review board. You're allowed legal counsel in most cases, but the rules differ from standard courts. Your attorney can prepare your statement, help you provide documentation, and sometimes appear with you at hearings.

Examples of School Consequences

• Loss of Scholarship or housing eligibility
• Academic Probation
• Suspension or Expulsion
• Mandatory Counseling or substance abuse programs

Your attorney will work hard to ensure your school hears the full story—and may be able to complement a legal win with a positive academic outcome as well. Navigating both courts and campuses takes strategic finesse, and we have the experience to guide you step-by-step.

Michigan Programs That Can Keep Your Record Clean

1. HYTA (Holmes Youthful Trainee Act)

If you’re under 26 and charged with a felony or select misdemeanors, HYTA allows the judge to withhold a public conviction. Upon completion of probation or terms, your record remains sealed.

2. 7411 Deferral

Charged with possession of drugs like marijuana, LSD, or Adderall? If this is your first drug offense, MCL 333.7411 allows the charge to be dismissed upon successful probation completion—no public record of conviction.

3. MIP First Offense Dismissals

Michigan law now allows judges to dismiss first-time Minor in Possession charges if you complete alcohol education; eligibility depends on your handling of the case—so don't plead guilty without advice.

License Suspensions and Immigration Consequences

Driver's License Concerns

OWI or drug possession charges can trigger automatic license sanctions in Michigan—some immediate, some delayed.

• OWI Convictions: 90 to 180-day suspensions and six points on your license
• Controlled Substance Convictions: Possible six-month mandatory suspension

In cases with implied consent refusals (like when a breath test is declined), your license could be revoked unless your attorney successfully appeals the suspension to the Secretary of State.

Non-Citizens: Immigration Status at Risk

If you're an international student or applying for a visa, even a misdemeanor charge could impact your immigration status. Drug-related offenses and crimes of moral turpitude like fraud or assault are particularly sensitive. We work with your immigration attorney to mitigate damage and protect your visa eligibility.

When Should You Hire a Lawyer?

The answer is: immediately. The earlier we get involved, the more we can do. From preventing your arraignment hearing to minimizing bail conditions, reducing charges, and communicating with your school, early action can dramatically improve your outcome.

Don’t rely on luck or last-minute fixes. You’ll want someone who knows the ins and outs of Michigan law, campus procedures, and courtroom strategies that work. That’s where we come in.

Call Michigan criminal defense attorney Aaron J. Boria at (734) 453-7806. We’ll give you an honest, straightforward assessment of your case. The consultation is free, and the advice could be life-changing.

Conclusion

An arrest in college is scary—but it’s not the end. Students make mistakes, and Michigan law gives you tools for recovery, provided you act fast. Whether you're dealing with a September OWI, a dorm-room party gone wrong, or a fake ID that crossed the line, you have rights—and with the right defense, you can protect your academic path and future career prospects.

If you or your child has been arrested and you’re unsure what to do next, don’t go it alone. Contact criminal defense lawyer Aaron J. Boria today at (734) 453-7806 and take the first step toward protecting your future.

College is a time to learn and grow—but make no mistake, one poor decision doesn’t have to define your life.