As one of the premier research institutes in the world, Emory University has been recognized for its leadership in research and its academics. If you or a loved one is facing academic misconduct charges, it's important that you get ahead of the allegations, especially after all the hard work and sacrifice you've made to get to Emory University. Academic misconduct charges are taken very seriously by Emory, as they impact the community's academic integrity.
What Behaviors Does Emory Consider Academic Misconduct?
At Emory University, the Honor Code holds the regulations for all academic policies and regulations. Many of the behaviors that the school includes as academic misconduct are the common ones that one would see at universities and colleges across the United States. Sabotage of another student's academic work, plagiarism (unintentional or not), intentionally providing false information to any university officials with the intention of gaining an advantage, and seeking, using, or obtaining any unauthorized assistance or information for an assignment or an exam, are all considered academic misconduct. Article 4, Section 2 outlines all of the specifics, if you want to read through them.
Additionally, Appendix 2 of the Honor Code describes common examples of academic misconduct. The list is not exhaustive, however, it is extensive. It includes examples of written assignment violations, group work violations, exam behavior that's prohibited, and other issues. Appendix 3 addresses learning that occurs in a remote learning environment. Both of these sections warrant a look.
Perhaps most critical to understand, however, is that the honor code states that within the College of Arts and Sciences, Emory instructors “have reasonable discretion to establish specific standards and policies as related to their courses and assignments. Such additional standards and policies should be clearly articulated in the syllabus, in an assignment, or otherwise conveyed as the instructor's expectation. It is the responsibility of each student to understand the policies established in the Honor Code, syllabi, and assignments, and act accordingly.” This addendum means that it's imperative to read through syllabi provided by professors to ensure that you understand what their particular policies are. These policies will be as binding as the regulations outlined in the Honor Code.
What Is The Investigation And Hearing Process At Emory University?
All members of the Emory University community have a responsibility to report academic misconduct. According to the Honor Code, “when an individual suspects that an offense of academic misconduct has occurred, the individual shall report the suspected breach to the course instructor, a member of the Honor Council, a faculty advisor to the Honor Council, the Honor Council administration, or the Dean of the College.” If the Dean determines that the matter requires further investigation, they will refer the case to the Honor Council, and they will notify the student in writing of the allegation. The Chairperson of the Honor Council will appoint two people to investigate the charge: one member of the Honor Council and one faculty member. These investigators will proceed to investigate and gather information about the charge. This may include conducting interviews or reviewing documentation. If the investigators determine that the case lacks substantiation, they'll recommend a dismissal, and the Dean will either accept or reject the recommendation.
If the case goes to a full hearing, the student will be notified as soon as possible, and the hearing will be scheduled quickly. The Honor Council is allowed to ask questions of witnesses, however, the accused student and the advisor may not. They can however, request that the Honor Council ask questions. Only evidence presented in the hearing may be used to determine whether or not the incident was an actual violation of the Honor Code. There must be a unanimous vote in order to find the student responsible. Article 6 explains the entire procedure for more of the nuanced circumstances, such as multiple charges or multiple individuals.
What Are Potential Consequences For Violations?
At the end of a hearing, the Honor Council will decide on consequences by taking a majority vote, if the student is found to have committed academic misconduct. Consequences vary both in range and impact. A student may receive a verbal reprimand (that is not entered on their record), a written reprimand (which would be entered on their record), a zero on the assignment or another academic penalty, or a failing grade in the course which would appear on the transcript. These are the milder, albeit not mild, penalties. More severe penalties would include suspension, expulsion, revocation of a degree, or another combination of sanctions.
These consequences can have a lasting impact on your life, especially if they go on to your permanent academic record. This type of academic mark could affect your ability to apply to graduate school or even possibly a job. With as much work as you've put into your academic career, you don't want to risk everything.
What Is The Role Of An Attorney-Advisor?
Emory University's Honor Code states that “With the exception of testifying witnesses, only the members of the Honor Council, the faculty advisors to the Honor Council, the reported student, and the student's advisor, may be present during the hearing.” Although an advisor may be present at the hearing, the biggest advantage to working with an attorney-advisor is how they can assist you in preparation prior to the hearing. They'll understand how to craft a plan of action to best defend against possible disciplinary action. It's important to research attorney-advisors and find one that you trust who can help you navigate the process and advocate for you.
An Experienced Attorney-Advisor To Assist You
If you're facing allegations of academic misconduct at Emory University, you don't want to waste any time. The consequences of academic misconduct charges can be long-lasting and severe. Do not wait until after the hearing. Instead, reach out to an experienced attorney-advisor who can assist you in how to best approach your case. Attorney-advisors at the Lento Law Firm help students all the time with comparable cases and have many years of experience. Their expertise and knowledge will enable them to help you obtain the best possible outcome for your academic misconduct allegations. Call us today at 888.535.3686 or contact us online with your questions and concerns.
