All students are subject to their school’s code of conduct, and violations of these rules and guidelines could carry serious consequences. If you have been accused of violating your school’s code of conduct, it is essential to seek the assistance of our highly regarded Costa Mesa student defense lawyers at The Law Office of Scott D. Henry. Our criminal defense attorneys could prepare you for any disciplinary hearings and explain what to expect in these cases.
Student Code of Conduct Violations
When you do not follow their school’s policies and procedures, you have violated the student code of conduct. Some common violations include:
- Academic dishonesty
- Alcohol and drug violations
- Fire safety violations
- Harassment
- Hate crimes
- Misuse of school facilities
- Plagiarism
- Theft
- Vandalism
- Title IX violations
Depending on the circumstances, criminal charges may also be brought against you. A skilled defense attorney in Costa Mesa could help you in a situation where you are facing criminal charges and allegations of student misconduct.
Vandalism
Some students participate in vandalism out of boredom, anger, or the desire to be “cool” among their peers. They do not realize the serious consequences vandalism of school property may cause. This offense occurs when a person defaces property with graffiti or other material, damages property, or destroys it. It is a severe violation of a school’s student code of conduct and is also a criminal offense. California Penal Code 594 PC makes it illegal to engage in vandalism. If the damage is less than $400, it is punishable by up to one year in jail, restitution to the victim, fines, and counseling. If the value is over $400, it can be charged as a felony, carrying stiffer penalties.
Penalties for Student Code of Conduct Violations in Costa Mesa
Your school’s Office of Student Conduct’s disciplinary actions can have severe long-term consequences. If you are found to have violated the code of conduct, you may face disciplinary actions such as fines or restitution, scholarship revocation, substance abuse testing, removal from student housing, loss of financial aid, suspension, and expulsion.
If you are found guilty of criminal charges, you may face additional penalties. Criminal convictions carry penalties that include substantial fines, probation, jail time, and a permanent criminal record. A student defense attorney in Costa Mesa could help someone minimize the penalties they face at school and in court.
The Involvement of an Attorney at a Student Disciplinary Hearing
Some schools do not allow an attorney to be present during an interview or a hearing that involves an alleged violation. If your school prohibits your Costa Mesa attorney from attending, they could still provide invaluable assistance to a student building their defense. Our team has extensive experience with college code of conduct violation proceedings and could help you obtain a favorable resolution by:
- Explaining the code of conduct violation process to you and your family
- Investigating the alleged violation and thoroughly researching the educational institution’s rules and guidelines
- Assisting in obtaining and presenting evidence supporting your defense
- Advising you of your rights, options, and all possible outcomes
- Preparing you for the types of questions you may be required to answer
- Assisting you with the preparation of your statement for the hearing
- Assisting in witness preparation, if necessary
Speak with a Costa Mesa Student Defense Attorney
If you face allegations of student misconduct, you are likely frightened and overwhelmed. It is best to speak immediately with an experienced Costa Mesa student defense lawyer who could fight aggressively to obtain a positive resolution.
Our legal team at The Law Office of Scott D. Henry has over 40 years of combined student and juvenile defense experience. We understand how allegations of student misconduct are investigated and have in-depth experience of how these proceedings are handled. If you are also facing a parallel criminal case, our team could advocate aggressively on your behalf. We urge you to contact our office today for a free consultation. Scott D. Henry and his team could discuss the alleged violation, advise you of your rights and options, and determine the immediate steps you should take.
We understand the years of hard work and dedication required to get you to where you are. We are dedicated to fighting tirelessly to protect your rights so you can continue on your educational path toward a bright future.