If you have been notified of a student code of conduct violation, it is imperative to make sure your rights are safe by hiring a skilled Los Angeles student defense lawyer.
Our knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys at the Law Offices of Scott Henry have successfully represented students who faced serious disciplinary action while attending universities, including UCLA, USC, UC Irvine, Pepperdine, and UC San Diego. We genuinely understand how devastating this experience can be. Often, these situations arise from a genuine mistake or a simple misunderstanding. We could guide you through the university disciplinary process and, depending on their policies, either aggressively defend you in front of the disciplinary board or provide you with the tools necessary to represent yourself successfully throughout the entire process.
What is a Student Code of Conduct Violation?
Detailed in most student handbooks is a code of conduct, which consists of the rules and regulations all students must follow while attending their private school, college, or university. Any violation of the student code of conduct may result in a notification of the possible infraction. Additionally, the board may request that the accused person appear before the disciplinary committee to learn of the violation and provide any information regarding the alleged incident. Common violations of a student code of conduct include:
- Plagiarism
- Shoplifting
- Alcohol and drug violations, including DUI
- Assault
- Academic dishonesty
- Hate crimes
- Misuse of school facilities
- Vandalism
- Sexual assault
- Hazing
Depending on the allegations against a student, a lawyer in Los Angeles could help prepare their defense.
What is Considered “Plagiarism?”
One of the most common student code of conduct violations involves plagiarism. Most schools have a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to any form of academic dishonesty, especially acts of plagiarism. Plagiarism occurs when a student uses words, ideas, or work of another and presents it as their own. These acts include:
- Using direct quotes without proper reference (word-for-word copying)
- Paraphrasing a quote (rewriting another person’s work, yet still using their fundamental idea or theory)
- Summarizing ideas
- Fabricating references
- Forgery of research or data
- Misrepresentation of research or data
- Using another person’s complete work
Consequences of Violating the Student Code of Conduct
If the Office of Student Conduct determines you violated the school’s code of conduct, you will be advised of the consequences. These are typically harsh and significantly affect a student’s future at the school and beyond. Consequences include:
- Fines and restitution
- Removal from student housing
- The loss of scholarships and grants
- The loss of financial aid
- Removal from sports teams
- Removal from school organizations
- Class registration holds
- Suspension
- Expulsion
Depending on the offense, criminal charges may also be brought against you. Penalties for a criminal conviction include a permanent criminal record, jail time, probation, and steep fines. A Los Angeles attorney could help a student defend themselves so they could avoid or minimize any potential penalties.
Retain a Los Angeles Student Defense Attorney
Being notified of a possible student code of conduct violation can be frightening and stressful. If you have been accused of student misconduct, your education, employment, and future hang in the balance. We strongly urge you to consult with a skilled Los Angeles student defense lawyer in these situations.
Our legal team at the Law Offices of Scott Henry could advocate aggressively on your behalf during the misconduct hearing giving you the best chance at a fair and positive outcome. If the university does not allow legal counsel to be present, we could provide invaluable guidance throughout the process. Our juvenile defense attorneys could explain the student misconduct hearing process and advise you of your rights and legal options. We could then perform an in-depth investigation into the alleged incident, obtain strong evidence to support your defense, prepare any witnesses for testimony, and assist you with your statement preparation. Contact our offices today for a free consultation.