Back to College: What to Know About Drinking-Related Criminal Charges in Tennessee

As students head back to campus, it is a good time to remind college-aged drivers that drinking-related charges can create serious problems fast. In Tennessee, underage drinking, DUI, and alcohol-related offenses can affect a student’s license, school standing, finances, and future opportunities.

For many students, the school year starts with new independence, new schedules, and more social events. But one bad decision involving alcohol can lead to a criminal charge that follows a student long after the semester ends. Even a first offense may involve jail time, fines, mandatory classes, community service, and a suspended license, depending on the charge and the facts.

Under Tennessee law, drinking under the age of 21 is illegal, and underage drinking can be charged as a misdemeanor. A student who is accused of possessing, consuming, or transporting alcohol without legal authority may face more than just a campus discipline issue. The case can also become a criminal matter handled in court, which means deadlines, hearings, and possible long-term consequences.

DUI charges are especially serious. For an adult student, a first DUI conviction can bring mandatory jail time, a one-year license suspension, fines, and alcohol education requirements. If a student’s blood alcohol concentration is high enough, the penalties can become even tougher. That is why it is important to treat any alcohol-related stop or arrest as a serious legal issue from the beginning.

There is also a school side to these cases. A DUI or alcohol-related arrest does not automatically mean a student will be suspended or expelled, but it can lead to disciplinary action under a college’s code of conduct. In some cases, a student may also face problems with housing, scholarships, internships, or professional programs.

If police stop a student during back-to-school season, the best thing to do is stay calm, avoid arguments, and not make assumptions about what the officer can or cannot use as evidence. What happens in the first few minutes of a stop can matter later in court. Students should be especially careful about saying too much before they understand the charge and their rights.

At Hagar & Phillips, we help students and families in Wilson County and throughout Middle Tennessee handle drinking-related criminal charges with a focus on protecting their future. If your son or daughter is facing an alcohol-related arrest, or if you are a college student dealing with a DUI or underage drinking case, our team can help you understand the process and the options ahead.

If you are facing criminal charges this school year, contact Hagar & Phillips today at 615‑784‑4588 to schedule a confidential consultation.

This information is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

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