Drug Possession Charges – Olin College of Engineering
Defense Representation in Dedham District Court
A drug possession charge may seem minor at first, but for a college student it can have consequences that last well beyond graduation. For students at Olin College of Engineering, a single arrest can affect housing, scholarships, internships, federal financial aid, and future employment in highly regulated STEM fields.
Me and my team here at the Law Offices of Kensley Barrett represent Olin students charged with drug possession in Dedham District Court. I act quickly to protect your record, your academic standing, and your long-term opportunities.
Massachusetts Office
572 Washington Street, Wellesley, MA 02482
Phone: 857.229.2442
Massachusetts Drug Possession Laws
Drug possession charges in Massachusetts are governed by M.G.L. c. 94C. College students are commonly charged with:
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Possession of a Class A substance (including heroin or fentanyl)
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Possession of a Class B substance (such as cocaine or Adderall without a prescription)
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Possession of a Class D substance (marijuana under age 21 or over the legal limit)
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Possession of drug paraphernalia
Penalties depend on the substance, quantity, and prior record, and may include:
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Jail exposure for certain offenses
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Probation and mandatory drug education or counseling
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Driver's license suspension
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Significant fines
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Creation of a permanent CORI (criminal record)
Even first-time charges can trigger serious academic consequences at Olin College and should never be taken lightly.
How Drug Charges Affect College Students
For Olin College students, a drug arrest can create immediate and lasting problems, including:
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Arrest records affecting internships and background checks
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Loss of campus housing or housing eligibility
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Disciplinary probation or suspension
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Damage to academic reputation in a small campus community
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Potential impact on federal financial aid and scholarships
STEM employers, graduate programs, and licensing boards often scrutinize drug-related offenses closely.
Criminal Penalties in Dedham District Court
Drug possession cases arising in the Needham and Wellesley area are handled in Dedham District Court. Depending on the charge, a case may involve:
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Pretrial diversion opportunities
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Probation with drug testing and counseling
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Court-ordered treatment programs
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Long-term CORI consequences if not resolved properly
For non-citizen students, drug offenses can also trigger immigration consequences, making early legal intervention essential.
Olin College Drug Policy and Conduct Code
Olin College enforces a strict drug policy that applies regardless of Massachusetts legalization laws. The college prohibits:
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Marijuana possession or use, even if legal under state law
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Use or possession of prescription drugs without a valid prescription
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Drug paraphernalia in residence halls
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Being under the influence in campus housing or at college-related events
Possible disciplinary sanctions 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 counseling or educational programs
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Permanent notation on a student conduct record
Olin may initiate discipline immediately after an arrest, even before the criminal case is resolved.
FAQs for Parents and Students
Can my student be expelled for marijuana on campus?
Yes. Olin follows federal guidelines and may impose severe discipline even for first-time marijuana violations.
Will this affect federal financial aid (FAFSA)?
It can. Certain drug convictions may impact eligibility for federal student aid.
Can a drug charge be sealed or expunged?
Some offenses may be eligible for sealing or expungement, but avoiding a conviction from the start is critical.
Is jail mandatory for a first offense?
Often no, but poor handling of the case can lead to unnecessary penalties that could have been avoided.
Legal Defense Strategies
Every case is different. Defense strategies may include:
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Challenging illegal searches of dorm rooms, vehicles, or backpacks
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Suppressing evidence obtained without proper consent or warrants
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Pursuing first-time offender diversion programs
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Negotiating CWOF resolutions that avoid a conviction
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Seeking dismissal or education-based outcomes
My goal is always to resolve the case in a way that protects both your legal record and your academic future.
Why Choose the Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
Me and my team focus on defending college students facing criminal charges in Massachusetts. When you work with my office, you benefit from:
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Extensive experience in Dedham District Court
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Familiarity with student drug cases and campus discipline issues
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Strategic balance between criminal defense and academic risk
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Direct, personalized representation from start to finish
I understand how quickly a single mistake can threaten years of hard work—and I work to prevent that from happening.
Contact Information
Law Offices of Kensley Barrett
Rhode Island Office
1000 Chapel View Blvd, Cranston, RI 02920
Phone: 401.425.4059
Massachusetts Office
572 Washington Street, Wellesley, MA 02482
Phone: 857.229.2442
If you or your child is facing drug possession charges connected to Olin College of Engineering, contact my office immediately. Early action can make the difference between a temporary setback and a permanent record.
