Bloomfield College has existed for nearly 150 years and has an overall enrollment of roughly 1,800 students. Over the years, the administration has implemented its Standards of Conduct, which include “basic rules that are respected and enforced.” Those who fail to adhere to the standards can expect the “administration of discipline.”
How Can a Student Rights Attorney Help?
Many students that are subject to a student disciplinary process may question whether retaining legal representation is appropriate for these matters. Although these actions are not judicial, an attorney can still be very beneficial and it is not uncommon. Most schools allow parties in disciplinary actions the option of having someone serve as an advisor.
Having assistance from an attorney may help in interpreting the institution's guidelines and policies. You will have someone that will better ensure your rights are protected. Often these matters may have various types of evidence that should be reviewed and scrutinized. The individual will provide support and accompany you to hearings, interviews, and other events.
An attorney may enter into negotiations on your behalf. This may involve administration from a disciplinary office, office of academic integrity, Title IX Coordinator, and others. Although it is always recommended that students facing allegations retain legal counsel much sooner, an attorney may be a tremendous asset if appealing an adverse ruling.
Bloomfield College Student Rights Lawyer
Access to legal counsel is a constitutional right that may help with defending against many types of allegations. At many educational institutions, the role of an advisor may be restricted to some extent. Many schools encourage those in disciplinary investigations to retain legal counsel. In some situations, your attorney may be most effective in terms of your preparation.
In many cases, students and/or their parents take allegations such as academic misconduct too lightly. It may not be until the proceedings are well underway before it becomes apparent that the outcome may result in potentially long-term consequences. Always seek an attorney that is well-versed in this realm of practice.
Title IX Matters
Federal legislation known as Title IX was implemented by the U.S. Department of Education 1973. It relates to how academic institutions address allegations of sexual discrimination. The basis is that no person associated with the institution will be “excluded from participation in, be denied benefits, or be subjected to discrimination.” A school that fails to comply may have their eligibility for federal education funds revoked.
Title IX violations at Bloomfield College may include any of the following:
- Sexual harassment: Acts such as unwelcome sexual advances or requests for sexual favors
- Sexual violence: May include forms of physical harassment committed against an unwilling victim. It may also apply to victims who are incapable of granting consent because they are a minor, are under the influence of drugs or alcohol or have a mental impairment. Common examples are rape or sexual coercion.
- Gender-based harassment: This may include slurs or stereotyping “based on a student's actual or perceived sex.” Often this type of harassment targets those whose sexual orientation does not conform to societal norms.
Schools are responsible for naming a Title IX Coordinator. All allegations must be promptly investigated fairly and equitably. In today's academic environment, these matters tend to be taken seriously. Consulting with an attorney is strongly encouraged for guidance and the protection of your rights. At Bloomfield College, these matters are handled by the Title IX Compliance/Affirmative Action Officer.
General Disciplinary Issues
Certain types of alleged violations may be considered as general disciplinary matters and will be investigated and adjudicated by Bloomfield College. This is a broad category that applies to offenses such as the following:
- Alcohol-related: May include underage possession or consumption of alcohol consistent with state law. It may involve using false identification to purchase alcohol. At Bloomfield College, students are prohibited from possessing or consuming alcoholic beverages in the residence halls.
- Drug-related: Violations of abusing, possessing or sales of illegal substances on the campus.
- Hazing: All forms of hazing are prohibited in the college and university environment. These actions are most common in groups or organizations such as fraternities, sororities, and athletic teams.
- Residential misconduct: Those who reside in college or university housing are subject to specific rules. These commonly include exceeding occupancy limits, excessive noise, smoking, etc.
Academic Misconduct
Acts of academic misconduct at Bloomfield College are generally those considered to be acts of dishonesty associated with cheating. This may include communicating with others or using unauthorized materials during an examination. It may involve providing or receiving assistance in attempts to unfairly obtain some academic gain or credit.
Acts of plagiarism are also forms of academic misconduct. It may occur by submitting someone else's work as if it were your own. It also may involve using someone else's work, concepts or ideas without properly citing the source.
Disciplinary Hearings
Many educational institutions summon all of the parties to hearings. The hearing may involve presenting evidence and witness testimony. According to the school's written provisions, some individual or panel of individuals must ultimately make a ruling. Having assistance from an attorney should allow for you to be prepared to make effective statements and confidently respond to questions.
Penalties and Sanctions
When a student has been found to have committed a significant violation by a college and university they may face potential penalties. The two most commonly imposed include suspension or expulsion from the institution. A student's records or transcripts may contain information related to these incidents that can pose challenges.
A student with a record of disciplinary actions may have difficulty transferring to another school or with admissions to graduate programs. Evidence that suggests an individual has a history of misconduct or dishonesty can potentially create long-term problems.
Legal Representation for Criminal Matters
Attorney Joseph D. Lento is also available to defend against New Jersey criminal charges. These may be associated with or independent from any student disciplinary proceeding. He has many years of experience analyzing evidence and creating comprehensive defense strategies.
Effective Representation for Students at New Jersey Colleges and Universities
Joseph D. Lento will aggressively represent students facing general disciplinary proceedings, accusations of academic misconduct, and much more. He has a wealth of experience in protecting the rights of his clients and obtaining favorable outcomes. Feel free to contact the office today at (888) 535-3686 for additional information.
