The Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University (RSM) is part of the State University of New York system and one of five Health Science schools at Stony Brook. It was founded in 1971 and, as of 2016, is partnered with the Mount Sinai Health System. The school contains eight science and 17 clinical departments, as well as facilitating global medical outreach. With 500 medical students and 750 residents and fellows every year, Stony Brook is a prestigious university that can open the door to many career opportunities.
However, the privilege that comes with being a student at Stony Brook does not come without responsibility. The school maintains high standards for its students' professionalism. Violations of codes of conduct and honor policies can result in suspension or dismissal. Medical school is no small achievement, and you worked hard to get here. Don't take chances on your education- with everything that can go wrong during a hearing; you need the help of the Lento Law Firm and its student defense team.
Common Reasons for Dismissal
RSM has an extensive student handbook outlining the codes of conduct for the school as well as policies and procedures surrounding alleged violations. Suspension or expulsion is generally the result of repeated or major infractions by the student. The most common reasons include issues with professional conduct, academic progression, social behavior, or honor code violations.
Issues with academic progression are the most common cause for dismissal. Due to the rigorous nature of medical school, it can be difficult to keep up with the heavy workload, but failure to keep up with assignments can result in removal from the program. Professional conduct and social behavior can be grounds for dismissal because medical students will be working in the public sector. Even outside of the workplace, they are held to a high standard. This means that you can be disciplined for actions in extracurriculars or other interactions outside of the school. Similarly, honor code violations are unacceptable and can result in dismissal because the student will be working with the public. Appropriate bedside manner is essential for future medical professionals, and failure to comply with ethical codes can put lives at risk.
The Adjudication Process
Students facing disciplinary action at RSM will go through a formal process of adjudication to ensure due process. The administrative hearing process is outlined in the Student Conduct and Community Standards handbook. First, a complaint is made by a student, staff, or faculty member. In some situations, the student and the individual who filed the complaint can go through a mediation process to settle the dispute without a hearing. If this is not appropriate to the situation or a solution cannot be reached during mediation, a formal investigation and hearing will proceed. The student will have to face a Hearing Board comprised of students, staff, and faculty and present their case. The Hearing Board will deliberate and determine what sanctions are appropriate. The hearing can be stressful, even if you didn't commit any violations. That's why the Lento Law Firm student defense team is here to support you.
Medical students are already under a lot of pressure, and the adjudication process can be stressful. With Lento Law Firm by your side, you can better understand the adjudication process itself, the potential actions that could be taken and the consequences, and how to present your case most effectively to the panel. They have years of experience in student defense, so while they are not allowed to participate in the hearing itself, they can help you to prepare your case to make the process go as smoothly as possible.
Handling Appeals
Should you face sanctions following the hearing, you have the right to appeal if there has been a violation of student conduct procedures, new information has come to light, or the sanctions are disproportionate to the offense and your conduct record. To appeal your disposition, you will submit a written application to the University. From there, a designated University official will review your case, and this decision will be final. Generally, if you are found responsible for misconduct, suspension is the minimum sanction. Even suspension can majorly limit your future opportunities, as you will have to explain your disciplinary history to internships, schools, and employers. However, it's often possible to appeal even beyond the school level.
The Lento Law Firm is here to help you through appeals. He and his team can help you to prepare your written argument, as well as how to answer questions from the board and officials. They can also provide support in appeals beyond the school level. You worked hard to get to medical school, and it doesn't have to end here.
Hiring an Attorney Advisor
If you are a medical student facing suspension or dismissal from RSM, hiring an Attorney Advisor is the best way to ensure your rights are protected. With the Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team by your side, you can increase your chances of success in the adjudication and appeals processes. The Lento Law Firm Team has many years of experience in supporting medical students, and these disciplinary actions can have long-term consequences on your future. They want to protect due process for everyone.
Being a medical student is no small feat, especially at a school like RSM. If you are someone you know is facing dismissal or suspension due to allegations of misconduct or academic progress issues, the Student Defense Team is here to help. Make the smart choice and protect your future as a medical professional today.
Contact the Lento Law Firm today at 888-535-3686 for more information about how to approach your case.
