At Loyola Marymount University (LMU), an academic honesty case starts with the instructor, who informs the student of the suspected violation and determines whether a violation occurred. If the instructor finds a violation, the determination is documented on an Academic Honesty Violation Form, and the student has a short window to appeal the determination, the sanction, or both. If no appeal is filed, the determination becomes final. Appeals go to the Academic Honesty Review Committee, which gives a ruling to the Provost, and the Provost’s decision is final.
A note on policies: universities revise their bulletins and procedures over time, and the process that governs any particular case is the one in effect for that case. This article describes the general structure of LMU’s process as the university has published it. The current Academic Honesty Policy and Procedures in the LMU Bulletin are the controlling sources.
How Does an LMU Case Begin?
The instructor who suspects a violation informs the student, and the instructor then determines whether a violation of the Academic Honesty Policy occurred.
According to LMU’s policy, if the instructor determines that no violation occurred, no further action is taken. If the instructor determines that a violation did occur, the determination is documented on an Academic Honesty Violation Form, which is filed with the Provost.
What Happens If a Student Doesn’t Appeal?
The determination becomes final. LMU’s policy gives the student a short window after the instructor emails the Academic Honesty Violation Form to appeal the determination, the sanction, or both. If no appeal is filed, the violation determination becomes final, which ends the process.
What Is the Academic Honesty Review Committee?
The Academic Honesty Review Committee is the body that gives the Provost a ruling on appeals and other matters related to violations of the Academic Honesty Policy. According to LMU, the Provost’s decision is final and ends the process.
What Sanctions Can LMU Impose?
Sanctions depend on the violation and the student’s history. Under LMU’s policy, at a second violation, the student receives written warning that any further violation will result in further sanctions, including suspension (academic disqualification) or dismissal from the university. LMU’s guidance for students states that, for repeated violations, sanctions can range from probation to dismissal, on the committee’s recommendation and at the Provost’s discretion.
Common Misconceptions About LMU Cases
“I’ll have time to think it over.” LMU’s appeal window after the Academic Honesty Violation Form is short, and without an appeal, the determination becomes final.
“The instructor’s decision is the end of it.” Students can appeal the determination, the sanction, or both to the Academic Honesty Review Committee.
“Repeat violations get the same treatment.” LMU’s policy escalates sanctions for repeat violations, up to suspension or dismissal.
“The committee makes the final call.” The committee gives a ruling to the Provost, whose decision is final.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who decides academic honesty cases at LMU?
The instructor makes the initial determination, and appeals go to the Academic Honesty Review Committee, which gives a ruling to the Provost.
What happens if I don’t appeal an LMU academic honesty determination?
The determination becomes final, which ends the process.
What happens after a second LMU academic honesty violation?
The student receives written warning that any further violation will result in further sanctions, including suspension or dismissal.
Can I get outside help with an LMU academic honesty case?
Yes, behind the scenes. Students can work with an outside advisor to prepare their response to the instructor and any appeal.
Getting Help With a Loyola Marymount Case
LMU’s academic honesty process is an internal university proceeding, not a court case, and it moves quickly after the instructor’s determination. Richard Asselta is a student defense attorney who serves as an advisor to students in university academic integrity and disciplinary processes nationwide. He works with LMU students behind the scenes, helping them respond to the instructor, understand the Academic Honesty Violation Form, organize their evidence, and prepare any appeal within LMU’s short window. Every case turns on its specific facts and on the policies in effect at the time. Learn more about Richard Asselta or call 855-338-5299.