For nearly thirty years, the Law Office of Jerry M. Beurkens in Grand Rapids, Michigan, has been protecting the rights of individuals in a variety of criminal law cases. One area of the firm's comprehensive criminal defense practice focuses solely on college campus crimes. College students are especially vulnerable when facing criminal charges, as they may be far from home and without the immediate assistance of loved ones. Attorney Jerry Beurkens strives to provide personalized service and aggressive representation to those charged with marijuana possession and other college campus crimes.
To learn more about college campus crimes, including marijuana possession, contact the Law Office of Jerry M. Beurkens today and schedule a consultation.
Michigan Statute 333.7411
Often referred to as "7411," this is the portion of Michigan law detailing the possible diversion of a possession of marijuana conviction. It allows you to keep the possession charge off your permanent record and avoid the usual penalties if you complete certain rehabilitative programs and avoid subsequent arrests. Mr. Beurkens is fluent in the language of the Michigan criminal statutes and can determine if 7411 is a viable option in your case.
Affecting Your Future
A conviction for marijuana possession or other college campus crime can have consequences that will affect your life now and well into the future. Some of the problems you may encounter include:
- The inability to obtain federal funding for school (such as grants and student loans)
- A permanent criminal record
- The inability to find suitable employment
- The potential for additional charges to be filed, such as operating under the influence of a controlled substance
Probable Cause and Police Searches
Many individuals do not know that if a police officer simply smells marijuana in a car or dwelling, that this constitutes probable cause to conduct a search. If they must search, let them and do not admit possession of anything they find. It is the job of law enforcement to show possession.
Other Campus Crimes
In addition to marijuana possession and other drug charges, Mr. Beurkens defends college students charged with other campus-related crimes, including:
- Retail fraud (shoplifting)
- Vandalism
- Assault
- Rape/Date rape
- Underage consumption of alcohol
- Minor in possession and open container
Do not let an alleged crime committed while in college affect the rest of your life. If you live in Western Michigan, get in touch with a firm that knows how to fight for the rights of college students - contact a lawyer at the Law Office of Jerry M. Beurkens today.
