Welcome back to School

The Law Offices of Eric B. Morrell would like to give a warm welcome to students and parents returning to Rutgers University, New Brunswick, this fall. Living at college is an exciting and sometimes unpredictable part of your child’s life. Although we hope this transition will be as smooth as possible, our offices would like to make those who are returning to Rutgers this fall, and their parents, aware of specific legal issues they may encounter and resources that may benefit your child. Between large social gatherings, the new marijuana laws, or use of alcohol, college students can sometimes run into trouble on campus. The information that we are sharing will ensure that they have a successful college experience. 

Students returning to school will face challenges that come with living on their own. We encourage parents to help and keep in contact with the student in their first few weeks to ensure they are not struggling, or in need of further help. Parents should encourage their children to explore the resources their school offers, whether it is at home, through some of the sources mentioned in this article, or elsewhere in the community. We also recommend that parents have an additional phone number from a friend of your child should they need to be contacted in an emergency.

If needed, Rutgers University offers comprehensive services for those who may be struggling with mental health, substance abuse, or other issues that may affect a student through a program called CAPS (Counseling, Alcohol, and Other Drug Assistance Program, Psychiatric Services). CAPS is run by a team of healthcare professionals that host counseling and psychiatric services for students who request a consultation. If a student feels unsure about visiting CAPS, the University also offers treatment in the form of a crisis text line, acute psychiatric services, and peer mental health educators. Our office stresses the importance of uplifting our local community and treating individual cases with care and compassion. As a result of Eric representing students and clients with drug addiction, our offices share his experiences by regularly speaking to people in recovery in a program “Coping with Addiction in the workplace and the Community”  through the Edison Chamber of Commerce.  Here Eric details updates in the law that affect people who have been charges with crimes as a result of substance abuse. Eric was recently honored as Chamber member of the year for his volunteer efforts during the pandemic.

Middlesex county specifically offers residents treatment options should students fall into an addiction. Known as Blue Cares, the county operates a 24/7 hotline in which residents can speak to trained peer recovery coaches, and assess what treatment options are available to them. Participants can also download the Blue Cares app, which is also accessible on a 24/7 basis and contains information regarding addiction treatment in the area. Additionally, Blue Cares offers a second chance for those with prior drug related offenses. Participants in the program can choose to work with a Recovery Coach every month, and their case will not be heard until the program is completed, giving them a second chance in court. Individuals who participate in the program are given more favorable charges by prosecutors, and in some cases, even face the possibility of total dismissal. We highly recommend using these resources and seeking treatment for your child if they have any legal issues surrounding addiction. Both Middlesex County and Rutgers offer a wide range of programs and forms of assistance.

It is also important to note the changes to the state’s marijuana laws. As of January 1, 2021, marijuana has been approved for recreational use in New Jersey. This means individuals 21 or older can now carry up to six ounces of marijuana on their person, and purchase it from authorized retailers and dispensary. Yet, Rutgers University still has the right to create and enforce its own rules on campus. Much like alcohol, marijuana cannot be present, sold, or used on campus or in any dorm room. Students should be vigilant of this policy. Even though New Jersey has relaxed its stance on marijuana, its schools still maintain their own rules, and will not tolerate any marijuana usage on campus.

Although most students come to college with the intention of doing well and contributing to their community, interaction with the legal system are unfortunately not uncommon. Should this occur, proper legal representation is essential to navigating the court system and receiving the best possible outcome.  Eric B. Morrell has maintained solid relationships with the Rutgers community for over twenty five years, and we have represented Rutgers students in the  county and municipal court many times. Our offices are located a short walk from the Rutgers New Brunswick campus, and we offer a range of helpful resources to our clients.

Resources available for students at Rutgers University and Middlesex County

CAPS – 848-932-7402

Blue Cares – 732-596-4199

Crisis Text Line – Text KNIGHTS to 741741

Acute Psychiatric Services – 855-515-5700