At the Law Offices of Scott Henry, our Ontario student defense lawyers provide quality legal representation to both students and juveniles. If you have been notified of a code of conduct violation, we strongly urge you to act quickly and speak with our leading team of criminal defense attorneys. We understand serious legal issues can arise while attending a college or university. Our legal team could guide you through the school disciplinary process while protecting your rights. Our legal team’s top priority is to help you achieve success by obtaining your degree and advancing to your next endeavor.
What is a Student Code of Conduct?
A student code of conduct sets out the standards of behavior that the institution expects of its students both on and off campus. Its purpose is to maintain appropriate and lawful conduct by holding students accountable for their actions. Prohibited behavior typically includes but is not limited to:
- Committing in acts of academic dishonesty
- Assaulting, harassing, intimidating, or threatening another student, or group
- Endangering the health and safety of others
- Stealing, misusing, destroying, defacing or damaging school property
- The improper use of school facilities, equipment, services or computers
- Supplying false information to the school or forging, altering, or misusing any school documents or records
- Possessing or using firearms or other weapons, explosives (including fireworks), ammunition, or toxic or otherwise dangerous materials on school grounds
- Using, possessing, or distributing a controlled substance
- Violating school alcohol policies, including driving under the influence
- Hazing
- Committing an act of sexual misconduct
One of our defense attorneys in Ontario could help a student defend themselves if they have been accused of a code of conduct violation.
Academic Dishonesty
The term “academic dishonesty” refers to contributing to or committing a dishonest academic activity while learning or teaching. Academic dishonesty also referred to as academic misconduct can take many forms, including cheating, bribery, plagiarism, impersonation, fabrication or falsification, and sabotage. Acts of academic dishonesty carry harsh consequences, especially at the college or university level.
How is a Student Notified of a Conduct Violation?
When an educational institution is made aware of a possible code of conduct violation, typically by police, school staff, or peer, the Office of Student Conduct may send written notification to the accused. They will also immediately begin a fact-finding inquiry into the alleged violation. This investigation may involve interviewing potential witnesses or victims, obtaining security footage, and gathering any other evidence related to the allegation. It is essential for a student under investigation to obtain an Ontario lawyer as soon as possible so they, too can perform a detailed investigation into the incident and obtain evidence supporting the student’s defense.
What are the Penalties for a Student Code of Conduct Violation?
We often see students and parents initially taking the situation lightly. Many times, they believe a violation will result in nothing more than a “slap on the wrist,” so they do not seek legal counsel. Unfortunately, by the time they realize the seriousness of the situation, it is often too late. Penalties can be harsh and could affect a student’s future education and employment. Common penalties include:
- Fines
- Restitution
- Removal from university housing
- Loss of scholarships, grants, and financial aid
- Removal from sports teams and school organizations
- Class registration holds
- Suspension
- Expulsion
If the incident involved a criminal matter, criminal charges might also be brought against the accused. Penalties for a criminal conviction include jail time, probation, and a permanent criminal record. An Ontario attorney could help a student build a defense in both their criminal and academic hearings.
A Dedicated Ontario Student Defense Attorney Could Help
Being accused of student misconduct can result in a life-altering outcome. If you have received a notice of a possible code of conduct violation, we strongly advise you to contact our dedicated Ontario student defense lawyers at the Law Offices of Scott Henry as soon as possible.
We know all too well how allegations of student misconduct can adversely affect their future education and employment. That is why we are committed to providing young adults and their families with the tools necessary to fight the allegations and minimize any consequences. We have a thorough understanding of educational institutions’ policies and guidelines and know precisely how they conduct student misconduct hearings. We could provide you with a strong defense to the allegations.