If you are reading this, chances are that you or someone you know has been charged with an academic integrity violation. How do you defend an academic integrity violation? Read on to for an idea of what you will be facing and why a lawyer for college students is important.
What is an academic integrity violation?
There are several types of academic integrity violations. Some types of violations include:
- Cheating – unauthorized assistance, looking at another student’s test, using a cell phone to look up test questions, or using a friend’s old course materials.
- Plagiarism – Not citing sources, submitted purchased assignments, passing off an assignment completed by another student, or submitting the same paper to two different courses.
- Honor Code Violations – possession of drugs, weapons, or alcohol on school grounds; inappropriate behavior in a clinical setting, or other ethical violations.
What is the academic integrity process?
This is unique to your university. Students can find the process outlined in the school handbook or on the university website. The process includes many steps and to give yourself the best chance at success, you should involve a lawyer for college students as early as possible.
What can a lawyer for college student do to help in an academic integrity process?
There are several steps that can easily overwhelm a student. I help student’s draft emails for records, discuss potential witnesses, fight to include or exclude evidence, and even write opening and closing statements along with the student’s core arguments. Years of experience with the academic integrity process has given me the knowledge of what works and what doesn’t in defending academic integrity violations.
What happens at an academic integrity hearing?
An academic integrity hearing is nothing like a legal proceeding that you see on tv. There is a panel of decision makers that include school staff and students. The only rules that apply are the ones outlined by the university. It can be an overwhelming and a student who is unfamiliar with the process can accidently make a bad situation even worse.The purpose of the academic integrity hearing is to determine the innocence or guilt of the student, and if guilty, assign the sanction or discipline the student will receive – which includes the possibility of suspension or expulsion.
Why do I need a lawyer for college student to help in my academic integrity process?
Colleges often bring charges against students with little or no evidence. The case against a student can be built on speculation and weak evidence. This does not stop the college from moving forward. However, even if you are caught red handed, a lawyer for college students can help minimize the impact of charges and push for a lower punishment.
Can you help all college students?
Yes. I advise students all over the country facing academic integrity hearings. By working together to craft the best defense possible, you will be given the greatest chance at success. I also attend hearings as a legal adviser with students to support them during this very stressful event. The presence of a lawyer experienced with academic integrity hearings will help the student keep calm and keep the hearing fair and honest.
You get only one chance at success. Make it your best.
Richard Asselta is an award-winning lawyer for college students who offers student defense services to students throughout the United States. He is experienced in defending all types of student disciplinary issues including all academic integrity charges. Call The Education Lawyers today for a free consultation and protect your future. 855-338-5299 Click here to read what clients are saying about Richard Asselta on AVVO, a lawyer review website.