Yes, the University of Arizona can expel a student for alcohol-related misconduct, but expulsion is not the typical result of a first underage drinking violation. Most first-time student conduct cases result in educational sanctions rather than removal from the university. Serious misconduct, repeated violations, or existing disciplinary problems can change that outcome.
Students in Tucson, Arizona, also need to understand that an underage drinking incident can lead to two separate cases: a criminal minor in possession (MIP) citation and a university disciplinary proceeding. Both can move forward at the same time, whether the incident occurred in a campus residence hall or at an off-campus party near Fourth Avenue, Main Gate Square, or the West University neighborhood.
What Counts as Minor in Possession (MIP) Under Arizona Law?
Under A.R.S. § 4-244(9), people under 21 generally cannot buy, receive, possess, or consume alcoholic beverages. Violating this provision is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
At the University of Arizona, an MIP citation might arise after an incident in a residence hall, during a game-day weekend, or at an off-campus gathering.
The University of Arizona Police Department (UAPD) handles law enforcement matters on campus, while the Tucson Police Department (TPD) may respond to incidents at nearby houses, apartments, and parties.
An MIP citation is a criminal matter, not simply a warning from the university. However, the same incident can also trigger a review under the Student Code of Conduct.
Can the University of Arizona Discipline You Separately From a Criminal MIP Charge?
Yes. The University of Arizona can pursue student discipline independently of a criminal MIP case. A student may receive a citation from UAPD or Tucson police and also face a conduct review through the university’s Dean of Students Office.
The university can consider conduct that occurs on campus and certain incidents that happen off campus. Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys assists students facing the criminal side of these cases in Tucson. The firm’s role is to address the citation and related criminal allegations, rather than represent students in university conduct hearings.
Does a First-Time MIP Citation Typically Lead to Expulsion?
No. A first-time MIP citation does not typically lead to expulsion from the University of Arizona. The Dean of Students Office identifies educational interventions as the usual response to an initial Student Code of Conduct violation.
Sanctions can include:
- Monetary sanctions: A fine or other financial requirement imposed through the conduct process.
- Alcohol education: Completion of an educational course or personal responsibility workshop.
- Community service: Service hours or a related reflection assignment.
- Parental notification: Notification for alcohol-related violations involving students under 21.
- Housing consequences: Deferred eviction or other residence hall restrictions when applicable.
The university determines sanctions individually. A first violation involving alcohol possession alone is generally treated differently from an incident involving injuries, threats, or other serious misconduct.
What Actually Pushes a Case Toward Suspension or Expulsion?
Suspension or expulsion becomes a greater concern when an alcohol-related incident involves serious misconduct or a history of disciplinary violations.
Factors that can make a case more serious include:
- Repeated violations
- Providing alcohol to others
- Violence or threats
- Medical emergencies
- Existing conduct probation
These circumstances do not automatically result in expulsion. The university considers the nature of the misconduct and the applicable disciplinary procedures.
A serious incident can also produce criminal charges beyond MIP, depending on what occurred.
Does the University Have To Wait for the Criminal Case To Be Resolved First?
No. The University of Arizona does not have to wait for a criminal MIP case to end before proceeding with student discipline. A student could receive notice from the Dean of Students Office while the criminal citation is still pending. The university uses its own disciplinary process to determine whether a student violated campus rules.
That means the outcome in one proceeding does not automatically determine the outcome in the other.
Will Parents Be Notified About an Alcohol Violation?
Yes, parents can be notified about certain alcohol violations involving University of Arizona students under 21. Federal student privacy law permits colleges to disclose information to parents when a student under 21 is found responsible for violating alcohol or controlled-substance laws or policies.
The University of Arizona identifies parental notification as a typical educational intervention for first-time alcohol or drug conduct violations involving students under 21. Notification is not necessarily required in every case, and the university’s decision depends on the circumstances and applicable policies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Be Expelled for One Underage Drinking Incident at the University of Arizona?
Expulsion is possible for serious misconduct, but it is not the usual sanction for a first MIP violation. Educational requirements and monetary sanctions are more typical.
Can You Get an MIP Citation at an Off-Campus Party in Tucson?
Yes. Arizona’s underage drinking law applies off campus. Tucson police may issue citations at houses or parties near the University of Arizona.
Will an MIP Charge Automatically Appear on a University Transcript?
No. A university conduct record is not automatically a transcript notation. The consequences depend on the university’s disciplinary decision and recordkeeping rules.
Can an MIP Citation Be Eligible for University of Arizona Diversion?
Yes. The University of Arizona identifies minor in possession among misdemeanor offenses that may qualify for its diversion program. Eligibility is determined individually.
Can a Student Face Both Criminal Charges and University Discipline?
Yes. A criminal MIP citation and a University of Arizona Student Code of Conduct proceeding are separate matters and can proceed simultaneously.
Contact the Tucson Criminal Defense Attorneys at Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys for a Free Consultation Today
An underage drinking citation in Arizona can create concerns about both a student’s criminal record and their standing at the University of Arizona. Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys represents students and other individuals facing misdemeanor charges in Tucson and throughout Southern Arizona.
If you or your student received an MIP citation from UAPD or Tucson police, contact us at (520) 510-0439 to schedule a free consultation with a Tucson criminal defense lawyer at Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys to discuss the criminal charge and available options.
Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys
177 N Church Ave # 900, Tucson, AZ 85701
(520) 510-0439
