Colleges and universities hold conduct meetings to review allegations of student misconduct or violations of school policies, codes of conduct, or regulations. These meetings are part of a disciplinary process and allow students to respond to the allegations and present their side of the situation.
Our student defense Attorneys provide students with legal advice regarding their rights, an overview of the university’s disciplinary procedures, and the consequences of the allegations against them. At Leifert & Leifert, we are ready to accompany students to the Florida university conduct meeting and present arguments to contest the allegations. As in a Trial, our Lawyers may cross-examine any witnesses present and question the validity of their statements. If a university procedure is unfair, we raise objections. After the meeting, we provide students with advice on the next steps of the process, as well as how to appeal the outcome.
Cases Covered at University Conduct Meetings
Disciplinary meetings cover various cases relating to violations of the Florida university’s policies, codes of conduct, or regulations. Examples of cases are:
Academic Misconduct
Academic misconduct cases. In these cases, students are accused of academic dishonesty, plagiarism, cheating on tests, and other violations of academic integrity policies.
Non-Academic Misconduct
Misconduct can also occur in a non-academic setting. Hazing, bullying, harassment, substance abuse, vandalizing school property, and theft are all behaviors that disrupt the school environment.
Title IX Violations
Title IX violations happen when students engage in sexual misconduct, dating violence, sexual harassment, domestic violence, and stalking.
Residential Misconduct
If students live on campus, there may be residential misconduct. The university may initiate a case to address noise disturbances, property damages, and unauthorized guests. Other types of misconduct include:
- Financial misconduct
- Campus safety violations
- Drug and alcohol violations
- Student organization misconduct (fraternity or sorority misconduct)
An Attorney can help prepare a student for this type of disciplinary meeting.
What Happens at a University Conduct Meeting?
University conduct hearings are like Florida civil Trials in proceedings. A member of the university community first reports the misconduct. Once the report is received, the university initially assesses whether there is evidence to investigate further.
During the investigative phase, the university will proceed with a formal investigation. This includes speaking with witnesses, conducting hearings, and gathering additional evidence.
At the adjudication part of the case, there is a hearing with a panel. The panel includes faculty members, administration, and sometimes students. The accused individual then has the option to present their side of the case and to respond to the evidence. One of our trusted Lawyers will help you present your side and defend your rights throughout the proceeding.
Once the adjudicative part of the process is complete, the panel determines whether the misconduct happened and if disciplinary action must be taken. You then have an option to appeal if you are found guilty of misconduct.
Disciplinary Action
If a university finds misconduct, the school may take disciplinary measures. Common forms of punishment include a warning, probation, community service, fines, suspension, and expulsion.
Contact a Florida Attorney to Discuss a Defense at University Conduct Meetings
When you are facing allegations of misconduct or if you have violated a university policy, our Attorneys at Leifert & Leifert are here to make sure that you receive fair treatment throughout Florida university conduct meetings.
Our Lawyers work diligently to provide guidance and representation to students during every stage of the process, from the investigative stage to the appeals. Call today to schedule a consultation with one of our team members and get started on your case.
