Students attending colleges and universities in the state of Vermont likely have agreed to abide by a set of rules known as a “code of conduct.” These rules are enforced in efforts to maintain a safe campus community. In the event a student is accused of violating this code in any way, they will undergo a disciplinary proceeding to determine whether or not they are “responsible” for violating school policy.
A responsible determination after a disciplinary proceeding can get a student in serious trouble. Trouble that can jeopardize their college career and haunt them down the line in their professional life. If you are a student facing a disciplinary allegation, don't hesitate to seek representation from an experienced Vermont advisor.
Common Code of Conduct Violations
Alcohol
Virtually all colleges and universities enforce rules addressing alcohol use on campus. Since underage drinking is illegal, institutions restrict alcohol consumption and possession for students under 21. But some schools take it a step further by limiting alcohol access and use for all attending students, regardless of age. In most schools, there are consequences for providing alcoholic beverages for students who are underage.
Bullying
Bullying behavior is a direct violation of Title IX. It is defined as any act that causes substantial emotional and/or physical harm to another student or group of students. This behavior is considered pervasive, and therefore punishable, if it interferes with another person's ability to get their education, creates a threatening environment, or significantly interrupts the operation of the college.
Disorderly Conduct
A student who chooses to engage in behavior that can be perceived as lewd, disruptive, or indecent may be accused of disorderly conduct. A wide range of actions can constitute this behavior. Loitering, disturbing the peace, being drunk in public, and acting recklessly in a crowded area are all examples of disorderly conduct.
Drugs
The unlawful use, possession, purchase, or distribution of illicit drugs, controlled substances, or paraphernalia is prohibited on all campuses.
Hazing
Despite the controversy that seems to always surround greek life, hazing rituals are still very much embedded in campus culture. If it is discovered that a ritual contains conduct that degrades, humiliates, or endangers another individual, the students involved will be sanctioned.
Physical Misconduct / Assault / Violence
Fighting or any other types of unwanted physical violence aimed at another person is not welcomed on campus.
Theft
Theft is defined as the act of taking or attempting to take the property of another person without their permission. There are numerous forms of theft. The circumstances in which the property is stolen dictates the type of theft it is. Regardless of the accused's intentions, if the original owner of the property feels it was stolen, a student will still have to undergo the disciplinary process.
Vermont Disciplinary Violation Advisor
The help of an attorney advisor is invaluable in the disciplinary process. National student defense attorney Joseph D. Lento has the skill, experience, and expertise to help you preserve your entitled rights under your school's policy. For a case evaluation or more information about his representation, contact him online or give him a call at 888-535-3686 today.
Vermont colleges and universities where Joseph D. Lento can help as your or your student's disciplinary violation advisor during investigations, hearings, and appeals include, but are not limited to, the following schools:
- Bennington College
- Castleton State College
- Champlain College
- College of St Joseph
- Community College of Vermont
- Goddard College
- Green Mountain College
- Johnson State College
- Landmark College
- Lyndon State College
- Marlboro College
- Middlebury College
- Norwich University
- Saint Michael's College
- Southern Vermont College
- Sterling College
- University of Vermont
- Vermont Technical College
College disciplinary violations can impact an accused student's life if not defended against properly and as early as possible during the disciplinary process, and Joseph D. Lento has a decade of experience passionately fighting for the future of his clients at colleges and universities throughout the nation. He does not settle for the easiest outcome, and instead, prioritizes his clients' needs and well-being. Joseph Lento is a licensed attorney in New Jersey and New York, is admitted as an attorney pro hac vice in state and federal court if needed when representing clients nationwide, and serves as a student advisor and educational consultant to students facing disciplinary cases in Vermont and throughout the nation. Make certain your or your student's interests are protected - Contact student defense attorney Joseph D. Lento today.
