Disciplinary Action Rutgers University
Disciplinary Action Rutgers University
If you are facing disciplinary action at Rutgers University, it is important to understand your rights and options.
disciplinary action at Rutgers University
If you are facing disciplinary action at Rutgers University, it is important to understand your rights and options. Here are some general guidelines to consider:
Know your rights: Rutgers University has a Code of Student Conduct that outlines the rules and standards of behavior expected of students. It is important to understand what you are accused of and what the potential consequences may be.
Review the evidence: You have the right to review the evidence against you, including any witness statements or documents. It is important to understand the case against you and to consider what evidence you may have to refute it.
Seek legal advice: Depending on the nature of the disciplinary action, you may want to consider seeking legal advice. An attorney can provide guidance on your rights and options and can represent you in any disciplinary proceedings.
Attend any required meetings or hearings: If you are required to attend a meeting or hearing as part of the disciplinary process, it is important to attend. This is your opportunity to present your side of the story and to defend yourself against the allegations.
Understand your options for appeal: If you are found responsible for a violation of the Code of Student Conduct, you have the right to appeal the decision. It is important to understand the appeal process and to consider whether it may be appropriate in your case.
If you have any additional questions or concerns, it is a good idea to contact an attorney to seek guidance.
Rutgers University Code of Student Conduct
The Rutgers University Code of Student Conduct Can Be Viewed Here.
Key takeaways from the Rutgers University Code of Student Conduct
REASON FOR POLICY - When students choose to attend Rutgers University, they understand that they must abide by all behavioral guidelines set by the Rutgers Community. The University Code of Student Conduct outlines behavioral expectations for Rutgers University students and provides information to all community members about what types of behaviors are not tolerated at Rutgers University.
DISCIPLINARY SANCTIONS - Disciplinary sanctions are imposed when students are found in violation of University regulations. The purpose of sanctioning is to educate a student as to why their behavior is inappropriate, as well as to make the student aware of and sensitive to all the possible consequences of the behavior in question. Sanctions for misconduct will be determined on a case-by-case basis, utilizing six main criteria:
The nature of the offense.
The precedent established by previous sanctions.
The previous disciplinary history of the student.
Aggravating or mitigating circumstances.
The developmental needs of the student.
The safety and well-being of the community.
University Hearing - Cases referred to a University Hearing will be heard by the University Hearing Board. The University Hearing Board is a formal disciplinary body comprised of two students and one faculty or staff member, overseen by a trained University community member serving as the Presiding Officer. The student may choose to have a Campus Advisor and/or a support person present. During the hearing, the complaint party will provide a narrative of what happened. Then the respondent will have the opportunity to provide their narrative of what happened. Then witnesses in support of the complaint will provide their accounts. Then the respondent can provide witnesses to support their interpretation of the incident. The University Hearing Board will review all available information, question all parties and any witnesses, and determine responsibility and sanctions, if appropriate. Should a student disagree with the finding and/or the sanctions, they will have opportunity to appeal to the Campus Appeals Committee.
Appeals - An accused student will have ten working days following a decision to file an appeal. All appeals must be submitted in writing, and will be referred to the Campus Appeals Committee on the responding student’s campus. Failure to submit an appeal by the appropriate deadline will render the decision final and conclude the disciplinary process
Appeals may be made on the following grounds:
Unsupported Conclusion: The decision made by the Conduct Officer or University Hearing Board is not supported by the facts of the case.
Procedural Error: The University Hearing disciplinary process was conducted unfairly and not in conformity with prescribed procedures. The error committed must have substantially impacted the fairness of the disciplinary process.
New Information: There is new information available that was not available at the time of the original Administrative Conference or University Hearing and that is sufficient to alter the original decision.
Disproportionate Sanction: The sanction imposed against the student was not appropriate for the offense committed.
Do I need an attorney?
If you are facing a disciplinary hearing or appeal at Rutgers University, an attorney can provide legal guidance and representation throughout the process. Here are some specific ways in which an attorney may be able to help:
Advise you on your rights and options: An attorney can explain your rights and options to you and help you understand the disciplinary process.
Review the evidence against you: An attorney can review the evidence against you and help you determine how to best defend yourself against the allegations.
Represent you in meetings and hearings: An attorney can represent you in any meetings or hearings related to the disciplinary action and advocate on your behalf.
Help you prepare for the disciplinary process: An attorney can help you prepare for any meetings or hearings and advise you on what to expect.
Assist with appeals: If you are found responsible for a violation of the Rutgers University Code of Student Conduct and wish to appeal the decision, an attorney can help you understand the appeal process and represent you in any appeals proceedings.
It is important to note that the specific role that an attorney can play in the disciplinary process will depend on the nature of the disciplinary action and the specific circumstances of your case. It is always a good idea to seek legal advice if you are facing disciplinary action and are unsure of your rights and options.