Drug Possession Charges at Northeastern University
Defending Northeastern Students Accused of Drug Possession
A drug possession charge can place a Northeastern University student's education, housing, and future career at serious risk. Even a small amount of a controlled substance can lead to criminal prosecution, probation, and university discipline that follows a student long after graduation.
Me and my team here at The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett represent Northeastern students charged with drug possession in Boston Municipal Court while also helping them navigate Northeastern University's disciplinary process.
Massachusetts Drug Possession Laws
Drug possession cases in Massachusetts are governed by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 94C. The severity of the charge depends on the type of substance, the amount, and the circumstances of the arrest.
Common Controlled Substances
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Marijuana (over the legal limit or underage possession)
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Cocaine
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Heroin
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Fentanyl
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Prescription drugs without a valid prescription (Adderall, Xanax, Oxycodone)
Criminal Penalties
Potential penalties for drug possession may include:
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Up to 1 year in the house of correction for certain substances
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Fines and court costs
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Probation with mandatory drug testing
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Court-ordered substance abuse evaluation or treatment
A conviction can also create a permanent criminal record.
Search, Seizure, and Constitutional Issues
Many student drug possession cases involve legal challenges related to:
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Dorm room searches
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Vehicle searches
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Campus police encounters
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Consent searches
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Illegal stops or detentions
Evidence obtained in violation of constitutional rights may be suppressed, which can significantly weaken or eliminate the prosecution's case.
Northeastern University Disciplinary Consequences
Northeastern University treats drug possession allegations as serious violations of the Code of Student Conduct, regardless of whether the incident occurred on or off campus.
University sanctions may include:
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Disciplinary probation
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Suspension or expulsion
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Removal from campus housing
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Mandatory substance abuse counseling
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Loss of scholarships or financial aid
University proceedings are separate from criminal court and use a lower burden of proof.
Boston Municipal Court and Drug Possession Cases
Criminal cases involving Northeastern students are typically handled in:
Boston Municipal Court
Edward W. Brooke Courthouse
24 New Chardon Street
Boston, MA 02114
Phone: (617) 788-8700
Early legal intervention can often result in dismissal, diversion, or resolution without a criminal conviction.
Why Choose The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
Me and my team here at The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett focus on defending college students when their futures are on the line.
We offer:
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Extensive experience handling student drug possession cases
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Strategic challenges to searches, seizures, and evidence
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Coordination of criminal defense and university disciplinary defense
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Personalized legal strategies tailored to each student's situation
Our goal is to protect your record, your education, and your future opportunities.
Contact The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
Cranston, Rhode Island Office
1000 Chapel View Blvd
Cranston, RI 02920
Phone: 401.425.4059
Wellesley, Massachusetts Office
572 Washington Street
Wellesley, MA 02482
Phone: 857.229.2442
Website: https://www.krbarrettlaw.com
If you or your child is facing a drug possession charge at Northeastern University, contact The Law Offices of Kensley Barrett today for a confidential consultation.
