Winter break is intended to be a time for rest, family, and a break from academic responsibilities. But every year, families across Texas, including right here in the Brazos Valley, get a phone call they never expected:
“I’ve been arrested.”
Whether your student attends Texas A&M, Blinn, Sam Houston State, or another university, an arrest over winter break can be overwhelming. But the steps you take in the hours and days afterward can make a significant difference in how their case plays out.
Here’s what parents need to know.
Step 1: Stay Calm and Gather Information
Your student is likely scared, embarrassed, or confused. Staying calm helps you get the information that actually matters:
- What charges are they facing?
- Which police department made the arrest?
- Are they in jail, or have they been released?
- Is there a bond set?
If they can’t give details, call the local jail or check the county’s inmate search. In the Brazos Valley, that usually means Brazos County Jail.
Step 2: Don’t Try to Handle the Charges on Your Own
Even “minor” offenses can snowball into major problems for college students. Common winter break arrests include:
- Underage drinking or Minor in Possession (MIP)
- Public intoxication
- Disorderly conduct
- Shoplifting
- Drug possession
- Assault after a bar or party incident
Any of these can affect their criminal record and potentially their school standing, financial aid, internships, or future job opportunities.
That’s why contacting a criminal defense attorney early is essential. Spiegelhauer Law can step in before decisions are made that limit your student’s options.
Step 3: Help Your Student Understand the Seriousness Without Panicking Them
College students often assume “it was just a mistake” and everything will work itself out. Unfortunately, a criminal case doesn’t disappear just because someone is young or enrolled in school.
Explain that:
- Missing a court date can lead to additional charges.
- Anything said on social media can be used against them.
- Talking to police without an attorney is never a good idea.
This is a moment for accountability but also for support.
Step 4: Hire an Attorney Who Understands College-Age Cases
Representing college students is different from representing older adults. A good defense attorney will:
- Protect your student’s record from long-term damage
- Explore pretrial diversion or dismissal options
- Work to keep the charge off their academic and disciplinary record
- Communicate with both the student and parents
- Navigate the local court system efficiently
In the Brazos Valley, local experience matters. Attorneys familiar with Brazos County courts, prosecutors, and campus-related cases can often secure better outcomes for students.
Step 5: Understand the Consequences Beyond the Courtroom
A criminal arrest can impact far more than fines or jail time. Depending on the offense, your student could face:
- Academic probation or suspension
- Loss of scholarships or financial aid
- Ineligibility for certain majors (like education or healthcare)
- Trouble securing internships or jobs
- Disciplinary action from the university, even if the criminal case is dismissed
Your attorney can advise you on how to navigate both the criminal case and any resulting school-related proceedings.
Step 6: Focus on the Long-Term Solution
Young adults make mistakes. Winter break arrests are common, but they don’t have to define your student’s future. Options like expunction, nondisclosure, or pretrial diversion may allow them to move forward without a permanent conviction on their record.
A defense attorney can evaluate whether your student qualifies and help protect their future opportunities.
The Bottom Line
A winter break arrest is stressful for any family but you’re not powerless. Taking the right steps early can protect your student’s record, education, and future.
If your college student has been arrested in Bryan, College Station, or anywhere in the Brazos Valley, don’t wait to get help. Jake Spiegelhauer can guide your family through the process and fight for the best possible outcome.
Contact Spiegelhauer Law today to discuss your student’s case and learn how we can help protect their future.
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