Student Code of Conduct Violations Attorney

Defending Students in North Georgia

Colleges and universities are places for learning, personal growth, and professional development, but the stakes are high if you make a mistake. Student Code of Conduct violations are serious and, in some cases, could impact your ability to stay in school.

As a Student Code of Conduct attorney, I work in nearby schools such as the University of North Georgia in Dahlonega, Cumming, and Gainesville, Piedmont University, Georgia Tech, University of Georgia, Kennesaw State University and all of the other North Georgia schools to defend your right to stay in school and pursue a higher education. I believe that mistakes, bad judgment, or poor influences should not destroy your opportunities. I work tirelessly to investigate your case and provide timely and effective counsel so you continue to live freely.

Contact Richman Law Firm in North Georgia by calling (678) 829-2826.

What Is a Student Code of Conduct Violation?

Almost all colleges and universities in Georgia have a code of conduct detailing rules and requirements for student behavior and decorum. Most codes of conduct list specific violations, offenses, or crimes that, if committed, could result in disciplinary action or even expulsion.

In many cases, if a student is found guilty of a Code of Conduct violation and expelled, they could lose scholarships, grants, and other financial aid. Not only could this eliminate any opportunities to pursue higher education in the future, but it could also destroy the trajectory of a student's life.

When a conduct violation crosses the line into criminal territory, a disciplinary hearing is only the beginning. Criminal charges are serious and stay on a person's criminal record even if they are not convicted of the crime. Employers, landlords, and professional boards require background checks before employment or housing, and an arrest or conviction is viewable to interested parties.

Misconduct Examples

Code of Conduct violations may be academic or behavioral, depending on the situation. The disciplinary board may punish academic and behavioral misconduct differently, and some aggravating and mitigating factors exist.

For example, if a student is accused of harassment, and there is evidence that they did so with a weapon, they could face extreme disciplinary measures and criminal charges. On the other hand, if a student is accused of theft, but evidence arises to pardon them, they may not face any penalties.

Academic misconduct includes:

• Cheating

• Plagiarism

• Complicity

• Fabrication

Behavioral and/or criminal misconduct may include:

• Violence

• Lewd or indecent conduct

• Harassment

• Obstruction of educational instruction, activities, or public service functions

• Theft

• Alcohol distribution or consumption

• Possession, use, or distribution of controlled substances

• Illegal possession of a weapon on campus

• Aiding and abetting

As mentioned previously, these offenses are punished differently depending on the university's guidelines, mitigating factors, aggravating factors, and in some cases, the student's position within the student body. For example, a student who serves on the school's counsel may be demoted or removed from their position as punishment for misconduct.

Lifelong Consequences

Student Code of Conduct violations have serious implications for those accused of an offense. Not only do they face punishment through the school's disciplinary board, but they could also lose rights and privileges on campus. Those who serve in leadership positions like resident assistant (RA) or a teacher's assistant or mentor to others risk removal if found guilty of misconduct.

While these penalties are serious, they are relatively temporary. However, there are lifelong consequences for those accused of misconduct or criminal offense. Many grant programs rely on good behavior and could be lost if a student is guilty of misconduct. In some cases, the disciplinary board may choose to expel a student as punishment which could jeopardize their scholarships and financial aid. Without financial aid, most students cannot continue their education which may prevent them from pursuing an occupation in an academic field.

Not only could a person lose their education opportunities, but they may also be unable to pursue employment. Employers require background checks which show criminal convictions. If a student commits a crime and violates the Student Code of Conduct, they may not be able to pass a background check.

Ultimately, the outcome of a Code of Conduct violation depends on unique circumstances. The student may have been coerced into acting contrary to the rules or making a mistake. These are not adequate reasons to destroy a person's future.

Fight For Your Future

If you have been accused of a Student Code of Conduct Violation, you may have a legal case. The Richman Law Firm believes that those accused of misconduct or a crime deserve fierce legal counsel from an attorney who cares. I work for the rights of the accused every day, and my experience has enabled me to successfully defend thousands of felony, misdemeanor, and misconduct cases.

Schedule a consultation with me, Attorney Richman at the Richman Law Firm, and fight for your future today.