College Student Criminal Defense in Chester County

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A criminal charge in college can affect far more than your court record. At Noone & Borger, our attorneys have stood on both sides of the courtroom — as prosecutors and as defenders — and we use that insider knowledge to protect your record, your education, and your future.

Call Us: (484) 947-5383 to Schedule a Confidential Consultation.

Few defense firms in Chester County can match our team's background inside the District Attorney's Office. Attorney Michael Noone served as First Assistant District Attorney in Chester County from 2012 to 2019, overseeing criminal trial teams and personally handling some of the county's most serious felony cases. Attorney Daniel Hollander also served as an Assistant District Attorney in Chester County, gaining extensive experience in litigation and criminal advocacy. That means we know how prosecutors build a case — and exactly where those cases are vulnerable.

Whether your charge is a summary offense such as underage drinking or a more serious matter, we build a defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances and to everything you have at stake, not a one-size-fits-all approach.

Underage Drinking — A citation for underage drinking may seem minor, but a conviction in Pennsylvania can carry significant consequences. We work to resolve these cases in a way that protects your record and your future.

Underage DUI — Pennsylvania applies a much lower blood alcohol limit to drivers under 21 than to adults, so even a small amount of alcohol can lead to a DUI charge. We examine the traffic stop, the testing, and the evidence at every step.

Drug Possession — Possession of marijuana or other controlled substances, along with related paraphernalia charges, can carry consequences beyond the courtroom, including university discipline and financial aid concerns.

Fake ID and False Identification — Possessing or using a fake ID can lead to criminal charges. We review how the ID was discovered and used, and we work toward the most favorable resolution available.

Disorderly Conduct and Public Drunkenness — Party, bar, and campus-area incidents often lead to summary citations or misdemeanor charges. We work to resolve these charges without lasting damage to your record.

Theft Offenses — Retail theft and other theft charges can raise questions about honesty for employers and licensing boards. We defend these charges and pursue outcomes that limit long-term consequences.

Assault and Fight-Related Charges — A single heated moment at a party or bar can lead to a simple assault or related charge. We investigate what actually happened, who else was involved, and what the evidence shows.

Sexual Misconduct Allegations— Allegations of sexual misconduct can lead to both a criminal case and a campus investigation. These matters require immediate, discreet, and careful representation to protect your rights in every forum.

Criminal Case and Campus Discipline— Many students do not realize they may face two separate processes at once: the criminal case in court, and a disciplinary case through their school's own student conduct process. What you say in one can affect the other, so it is important to speak with an attorney before making any statements to police or school officials.

Your Record Can Follow You — Arrests and convictions can appear on background checks and may affect internships, employment, graduate school applications, and professional licenses such as nursing, teaching, or law.

Financial Aid and Enrollment — Certain charges can affect scholarships, campus housing, and enrollment status. We consider these consequences as part of every defense strategy.

Involving Your Family — Many parents want to help. We are glad to speak with families, and we will work with you on how involved you want them to be while keeping your case confidential.

Every case is different, and we evaluate every detail before building your defense. Depending on the charge, our approach may include:

Early Case Review — We review the police report, the circumstances of the stop or arrest, and the evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case.

Challenging the Stop or Search — Police must have legal justification to stop, search, or arrest you. Evidence obtained through an unlawful stop or search may be suppressed.

Negotiating Reduced Charges — Our attorneys' prior experience inside the District Attorney's Office helps us anticipate the prosecution's position and negotiate effectively for reduced or dismissed charges when the facts support it.

Alternatives to a Conviction — Depending on the charge and your history, options may include diversionary programs such as Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD), which can allow a case to be dismissed after successful completion. Eligibility depends on the offense and the circumstances.

Support Through the Campus Process— We help students and their families understand their rights and prepare for school conduct proceedings alongside the criminal case.

Protecting Your Record — Where eligible, we help clients pursue expungement so that one mistake does not follow them into their career. See our DUI and Expungement page for more information.

Former Prosecutor Advantage — Our attorneys have handled serious criminal cases from inside the Chester County District Attorney's Office. We know how the prosecution builds its case and how to counter it.

Deep Local Knowledge — Based in downtown West Chester, we have deep familiarity with the Chester County courts, judges, and prosecutors, which translates into better-informed strategy for students charged locally.

Full-Service Representation — Our team handles every stage of a criminal case, from arrest and arraignment through pretrial motions, trial, and sentencing.

Discretion and Personal Attention— A criminal charge at this stage of life is stressful for students and parents alike. We treat every situation with the discretion and individualized attention it deserves.

What should I do if I have been charged or cited as a college student? 

Do not discuss the incident with police, campus officials, or friends until you have spoken with an attorney. Keep any paperwork you received, write down what you remember while it is fresh, and note every court date and school deadline.

Will my parents find out about the charge?

That depends on your age and the circumstances. Adult students generally control who is involved in their defense, although schools and other parties may have their own notification practices. We can discuss your specific situation in a confidential consultation.

Will a criminal charge show up on a background check?

Yes, an arrest or charge can appear on a background check even before a conviction. If your case is dismissed, withdrawn, or you are acquitted, you may be eligible to have the record expunged.

Should I speak with campus police or the dean of students?

Speak with an attorney first. Statements made in a campus proceeding may be used elsewhere, and the criminal case and the school process can affect each other.

I attend school out of state. Can you still help?

Yes. If you were charged in Chester County, we can represent you in local court regardless of where you live or attend school.

Noone & Borger is located in downtown West Chester and represents students throughout Chester County, including students at local universities and students who are home from other schools when a charge occurs. We serve clients in:

West Chester

Coatesville

Phoenixville

Downingtown

Exton

Malvern

Oxford

Kennett Square

Avondale

Parkesburg

Noone & Borger also represents individuals charged with crimes throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania, including:

Delaware County — Media, Chester, Upper Darby, Haverford, Radnor, Ridley Park

Lancaster County — Lancaster, Lititz, Ephrata, Elizabethtown, Manheim, Columbia

Montgomery County — Norristown, King of Prussia, Lansdale, Pottstown, Horsham, Conshohocken

Berks County — Reading, Wyomissing, Kutztown, Boyertown, Pottsville

A charge does not have to define your future. The earliest stages of a case are often the most important. Evidence, witness statements, and court and school deadlines move quickly — the sooner you have experienced counsel on your side, the stronger your position.

Noone & Borger 32 S. Church Street, West Chester, PA 19382

Phone: (484) 947-5383

Whether you are facing an underage drinking citation, a DUI, or a more serious charge, our team is ready to help. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.

This page is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is different, and past results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Contact Noone & Borger directly to discuss your specific situation.