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:
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Cheating
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Plagiarism
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Complicity
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Fabrication
Behavioral and/or criminal misconduct may include:
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Violence
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Lewd or indecent conduct
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Harassment
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Obstruction of educational instruction, activities, or public service functions
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Theft
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Alcohol distribution or consumption
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Possession, use, or distribution of controlled substances
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Illegal possession of a weapon on campus
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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.