Leaving the Scene of an Accident at Northeastern University: Criminal and Academic Consequences
I. Introduction
Being accused of leaving the scene of an accident as a Northeastern University student is a serious and stressful situation. In Massachusetts, these charges are aggressively prosecuted and can result in jail time, license suspension, and a permanent criminal record. At the same time, Northeastern may initiate its own disciplinary proceedings, placing your education, housing, and future career opportunities at risk.
Me and my team here at the Law Offices of Kensley Barrett represent college students facing leaving the scene of an accident charges in Boston and throughout Massachusetts. I act quickly to protect my clients from both criminal penalties and university discipline, because early legal intervention matters.
II. Massachusetts Law on Leaving the Scene of an Accident
Massachusetts law treats leaving the scene of an accident—often referred to as a hit and run—as a serious offense, with penalties that increase based on the severity of the incident.
Leaving the Scene – Property Damage
When an accident results only in property damage, penalties may include:
-
Imprisonment for not less than 2 weeks and up to 2 years
-
Fines ranging from $20 to $200
-
License suspension ranging from 60 days to 1 year
Leaving the Scene – Personal Injury
If someone is injured, the consequences become far more severe:
-
Mandatory minimum jail sentence of 6 months
-
Fines between $500 and $1,000
-
License suspension of 1 to 2 years
Leaving the Scene – Resulting in Death
When an accident results in death, leaving the scene is charged as a felony:
-
Prison sentence ranging from 2.5 to 10 years
-
Fines between $1,000 and $5,000
-
Mandatory minimum sentence of 1 year
-
Long-term or permanent loss of driving privileges
In addition to criminal penalties, the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles can impose extended license suspensions that affect a student's ability to attend classes, internships, or employment.
III. Northeastern University Code of Conduct and Accident-Related Allegations
Northeastern University enforces strict policies regarding student conduct that affects community safety, including allegations involving motor vehicle incidents.
University Policy
The Northeastern Code of Student Conduct prohibits behavior that threatens the safety and welfare of the university community, including leaving the scene of an accident.
Potential Disciplinary Sanctions
Students accused of leaving the scene of an accident may face:
-
Disciplinary probation
-
Interim suspension
-
Permanent expulsion
-
Loss of on-campus housing
-
Academic penalties or restrictions
Academic and Professional Impact
University discipline can move forward regardless of the outcome in criminal court and may have long-lasting consequences for graduate school admissions, professional licensing, and employment opportunities.
Official Northeastern University Code of Student Conduct:
https://studentconduct.northeastern.edu/policies-procedures/code-of-student-conduct/
IV. Boston Municipal Court and Leaving the Scene Charges
Cases involving leaving the scene of an accident for Northeastern University students are commonly handled in Boston Municipal Court.
Boston Municipal Court
Edward W. Brooke Courthouse
24 New Chardon Street
Boston, MA 02114
Phone: (617) 788-8700
Court proceedings may include arraignment, license suspension hearings, motions, and trial. I represent students at every stage of the process and coordinate defense strategies that consider both court requirements and university obligations.
V. 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 facing criminal allegations throughout Massachusetts. Leaving the scene of an accident charges require a defense that addresses both the legal and academic fallout.
What My Firm Provides
-
Extensive experience in Boston Municipal Court
-
In-depth understanding of Northeastern University disciplinary procedures
-
Strategic coordination between criminal defense and student conduct defense
-
Personalized legal strategies focused on protecting your education and future
I do not treat student cases like routine traffic matters. I understand what is at stake, and I fight to minimize the damage to your record, your license, and your long-term opportunities.
Contact the Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
If you or your child is facing a leaving the scene of an accident charge connected to Northeastern University, contact my office as soon as possible.
Wellesley, Massachusetts Office
572 Washington Street
Wellesley, MA 02482
Phone: 857.229.2442
Cranston, Rhode Island Office
1000 Chapel View Blvd
Cranston, RI 02920
Phone: 401.425.4059
Website: https://www.krbarrettlaw.com/
Confidential consultations available. Early action can make a critical difference.
