Being accused of unauthorized collaboration is a stressful and often confusing experience. It can feel like your academic future is on the line, and the process can quickly become overwhelming. That’s where I come in. My name is Richard Asselta, and I’ve dedicated my...
Focused 100% On Education Law Matters
Firm News
How Many Days Does a Professor Have to Report Academic Misconduct?
If you’ve been accused of academic misconduct, one of the most pressing questions might be: How long does a professor have to report it? The answer depends on your school’s policies, but understanding the reporting process and timelines is critical for building a...
Plagiarism Pitfalls: The Truth About Drafts, Final Papers, and Academic Integrity
Plagiarism is one of the most serious academic violations a student can face, with consequences that can be life-changing. However, many students don’t realize that most colleges and universities treat plagiarism in drafts and final papers equally. Whether it’s an...
Academic Misconduct Allegations? Don’t Panic – Here’s How to Fight Back
As an attorney specializing in defending students accused of academic misconduct, I’ve seen how these allegations can threaten not only your education but also your future career prospects. Universities are taking a tougher stance on issues like plagiarism,...
Four Myths About Academic Misconduct Appeals (and the Truth Behind Them)
Navigating the academic misconduct appeals process can be intimidating, especially when misinformation clouds your judgment. Many students fall victim to common myths that can derail their appeal efforts. Below, I debunk five prevalent myths and reveal the truth to...
Do’s and Don’ts After Receiving an Academic Misconduct Notice
Receiving an academic misconduct notice can feel overwhelming, but how you respond in the next few steps is crucial. Mistakes during this phase can harm your case, while taking the right actions can improve your chances of a favorable outcome. Below, I outline the...
Is Using AI Like ChatGPT Considered Cheating in College?
As AI tools like ChatGPT become more prevalent in education, students must understand how to navigate the boundaries between using these tools for assistance and committing academic misconduct. Many students wonder: Is using AI like ChatGPT in college considered...
Are Citation Tools Putting You at Risk of Plagiarism Accusations and Academic Misconduct?
As a student, staying on top of your assignments can feel like an endless balancing act. Many turn to citation generators or AI tools to help streamline their work. These tools promise to save time by formatting references or even creating citations from scratch....
Academic Misconduct in STEM Fields: Unique Challenges and Defenses
Academic misconduct can affect students in any field, but those in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs often face unique challenges. Students in fields like biology, computer science, mechanical engineering, and physics are particularly...
How to Navigate Academic Misconduct Accusations When Disability Accommodations Are Involved
Students with disabilities often rely on accommodations to help them have the same opportunities in their academic journey. However, misunderstandings about these accommodations can sometimes lead to unfair accusations of academic misconduct. When students,...

