Colorado State University (CSU) in Fort Collins offers students a vibrant campus experience, but with that freedom comes the need for responsible choices, especially when it comes to alcohol. Despite being a common part of college culture, underage drinking is taken seriously under both Colorado law and university policies. If you’re a CSU student caught consuming or possessing alcohol under the age of 21, the consequences can extend far beyond a simple citation.
In Colorado, it is illegal for anyone under 21 to possess or consume alcohol, even if they are on private property or at a friend’s house. Law enforcement officers from both CSU campus police and the Fort Collins Police Department frequently patrol areas where underage drinking is likely to occur. Events like football games, fraternity parties, and large student gatherings draw extra attention, increasing the likelihood of enforcement actions.
Students at CSU who are cited for underage drinking often face legal penalties and additional disciplinary actions from the university. These combined consequences can have lasting impacts on your academic progress, reputation, and future opportunities.
The most common charge associated with underage drinking in Colorado is Minor in Possession (MIP), covered under Colorado Revised Statute §18-13-122. Being found with an alcoholic beverage, whether it’s open or not, can be enough to trigger this offense. Even a BAC (blood alcohol concentration) above 0.02% in someone under 21 is grounds for a citation, regardless of whether that person appears impaired.
For a first offense, the legal system treats MIP as a petty offense, but this doesn’t mean it should be taken lightly. Penalties can include:
Second and third offenses increase in severity. A second offense may include a requirement for substance abuse assessment and additional education. A third offense may be elevated to a Class 2 misdemeanor, which could result in jail time and a much higher fine. Each conviction also creates a criminal record that can be accessed by potential employers, licensing boards, and others.
What many students and parents don’t realize is that even if no arrest occurs, the issuance of a citation alone can initiate a court case. Pleading guilty just to “get it over with” can have unintended long-term consequences. It’s essential to take every accusation seriously and seek legal guidance early in the process.
CSU has its own internal disciplinary system designed to address violations of university policy, including underage drinking. When campus officials become aware of a citation, either through police reports or direct observation, they may initiate proceedings through the Office of Student Conduct. These proceedings are separate from criminal court and come with their own penalties, even if the court case is dismissed or reduced.
Potential outcomes of a university disciplinary action include:
CSU’s process does not require the same burden of proof as the legal system. This means the university can issue penalties based on a lower threshold of evidence, and your ability to contest these charges may depend heavily on how you respond from the beginning. In some situations, university sanctions can affect scholarship eligibility or disqualify students from certain leadership or athletic roles.
Our campus crimes defense attorneys regularly work with CSU students and understand the delicate balance between addressing legal charges and responding to university disciplinary processes. Prompt action and informed decisions are key to minimizing harm to your academic and professional future.
It’s easy to think of an underage drinking ticket as a rite of passage or a minor blunder, but the reality is that a single misstep can derail long-term goals. A criminal record, even for a petty offense, can pose barriers to employment, internships, graduate school admission, or licensure in regulated professions. Employers may conduct background checks that reveal the citation, even if you completed the required classes or paid your fine.
Additionally, if the violation occurs on campus or during a university-sponsored event, the public nature of the incident can impact your reputation within the student community. Leadership positions, campus jobs, and relationships with professors can all be affected by how you handle the situation.
There are ways to reduce or eliminate the long-term impact of an underage drinking charge. First-time offenders may be eligible for a diversion program, which typically involves completing an alcohol education course and community service. Upon successful completion, the case may be dismissed. In some instances, it is possible to seal your record so that the citation does not appear in future background checks.
If you’ve been cited for underage drinking at CSU, the worst thing you can do is ignore it or assume it will simply go away. Don’t plead guilty just to put the issue behind you; speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can review the facts of your case and advise you on the best course of action.
We understand how stressful this situation can be, especially for students balancing school, work, and social obligations. Our team is committed to providing clear, practical support that helps you make informed decisions about your next steps. Whether you’re facing a court appearance, a university hearing, or both, we can help you explore all your legal options and determine how best to handle each part of the process.
Your future is worth protecting. If you’ve been cited for underage drinking near Colorado State University, contact us today to discuss your situation and how we can help you move forward with confidence.
