Sunday, September 26, 2021 9 laws you should know
Choices you make while in college can impact your future. Violating the law can result in rescinded graduate school and job offers, fines, court costs, red flags on a background check and more. Review the following laws to familiarize yourself with potential consequences.
#1 – Minor in Possession
Drinking under the age of 21
- Up to $500 fine / 90 days in jail (or combination)
- Parents may be notified
- Student Code of Conduct violation
#2 – Inmate of a Disorderly House
Knowingly participating in illegal activities at house
- $250-500 fine / 6 months in jail (or combination)
- Student Code of Conduct violation
#3 – Disorderly House
Tenant allowing illegal activities or disturbing noise
- $250-500 fine / 6 months in jail (or combination)
- Student Code of Conduct violation with the possibility of probation or suspension and/or required education
#4 – Fake ID
Possessing false identification
- Up to $500 fine / 90 days in jail (or combination)
- Student Code of Conduct violation
#5 – Procuring
Providing alcohol to someone under the age of 21
- Up to $1,000 fine / 1 year in jail (or combination)
- Not eligible for pre-trial diversion
- Minors can be charged, too
- Student Code of Conduct violation with the possibility of probation or suspension and/or required education
#6 – Obstructing a Peace Officer
Interfering or obstructing a police investigation
- Up to $1,000 fine / 1 year in jail (or combination)
- Not eligible for pre-trial diversion
- Student Code of Conduct violation
#7 – DUI
Driving a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Mandatory $500 fine
- Mandatory 7-60 days in jail
- Mandatory 6 months driver’s license revocation (1 year if BAC over 0.15)
- Student Code of Conduct violation
#8 – Public Urination
Urinating in public
- Up to $100 fine plus court fees
- Student Code of Conduct violation
#9 – False Reporting
Lying to law enforcement
- Up to $1,000 fine / 1 year in jail (or combination)
- Student Code of Conduct violation
Don’t let a party tonight ruin your tomorrow.
Making smart choices can keep you from having to deal with legal problems. However, if you find yourself working through these situations, know that some of the violations above are eligible for pre-trial diversion. (If eligible, average cost of diversion is $275.) Free legal advice is available to UNL students through Student Legal Services.
Learn strategies to reduce your risk for experiencing negative consequences from alcohol. Take the ScreenU Alcohol quiz. All responses are confidential.