The University of Louisville Brandeis School of Law (Brandies School of Law) is a public law school established in 1846. The college is the oldest law school in Kentucky state and is part of the University of Louisville complex. Brandies School of Law offers students six dual degree programs to attain their Juris Doctor. Its law library is among thirteen Supreme Court repositories in the United States. With a long and rich legacy and emphasis on law-related public service, students can look forward to many employment opportunities after graduation. However, they must demonstrate the highest caliber of moral and ethical standards befitting their future profession to remain enrolled.
Law students look forward to the education and training they receive in college, preparing them for the rigors of their future careers in the legal field. However, college is also a time of trial and error and frequently occurring mistakes. Faculty members expect students to make mistakes as they learn. Yet some errors are more severe than others and cause issues down the line. Students may, at some point, falter, whether it is the stress of attending college or the expectations of success from both parents and peers. Without the help of an experienced attorney-advisor, they face sanctions like suspension and expulsion.
Honor Code at Brandies School of Law
According to the Honor Code at the Brandies School of Law, honor code violations are severe infarctions. Regardless of the minor mistake, it becomes part of a student's permanent record. Moreover, the law school reports Honor Code violations to the Board of Bar Admissions. Due to the strict and decisive action that the law school takes, students must avoid making mistakes that negatively affect their reputation and future.
As per the code, the following violations are examples of academic misconduct:
- Using a commercial ghostwriting service
- Copying another person's work verbatim without giving credit to the original author or source
- Paraphrasing another person's ideas without referencing the source or including a footnote
- Taking an exam in an unauthorized location
- Using another student's notes, notebook, papers, or materials without permission
- Falsely reporting a violation of an academic exercise
- Deliberately misrepresenting data or class attendance
- Hiding, removing, or destroying library materials
- Taking an exam for another student
- Giving other students information about a written exam before they take it
- Refusing an Honor Council request
- Failing to report a violation
Brandies School of Law wants to maintain its reputation and maintain a level playing field for all students. However, not all allegations of misconduct are accurate. Students who make honest mistakes deserve a chance to defend themselves against reputation and career damage.
Investigation Process and Hearing
Any member of the Brandies School of Law who suspects that a student violated the honor code must report the matter to the Assistant Dean or a member of the Honor Council. A complaint may be verbal or written, stating the facts that form the basis of the complaint and time/location details. Once the Honor Council receives the complaint, its members meet to determine whether a possible infarction happened. If there is reasonable cause, the council schedules a hearing within seven days of receiving the complaint.
Panel members hear the complainant and the accused during the hearing while examining the evidence. After it ends, panel members have 14 days to deliberate and determine whether a violation occurred. The panel members recommend a sanction based on the evidence and send their findings to the Dean. The Dean makes a final decision regarding the case and delivers the results to the accused. Brandies School of Law does not permit students to appeal the Dean's decision.
Possible Sanctions for Academic Misconduct
Sanctions for academic misconduct and violating the honor code vary depending on the infarction and the student's behavioral history. Although not all sanctions have a detrimental effect on the student's future, some incur heavy damages that are difficult to navigate.
Sanctions for violating the honor code at Brandies School of Law include:
- Failing an exam or course
- Placing a notation of the violation in the student's file
- Discontinuing the student's participation in organizations and extracurricular activities, student bar associations, law journals, moot court boards, and skill competitions
- Placing the student under probation for a set period
- Temporary suspension from the law school
- Permanent dismissal
In addition to these sanctions, the Dean may also impose additional sanctions not listed in the honor code, depending on the violation. Due to these strict sanctions and their implications on a law student's life, it's crucial to speak to a professional advisor as soon as they learn of pending allegations. Since Brandeis School of Law does not allow appeals, students must take action immediately to avoid life-altering penalties that affect their future and reputation.
Hiring an Attorney-Advisor
Law school is an exciting time for any student. However, it also comes with challenges and pressure that may lead students to commit lapses in judgment and genuine mistakes. Even if you have a few semesters left, an honor code violation sets you back years. It may cause you to forgo your dreams of becoming a lawyer. Even if you believe you have a strong case, never approach an honor panel alone. When you receive an accusation of academic misconduct at Brandies Law School, you need the help of an attorney-advisor who understands the gravity of your situation.
Attorney-Advisor Joseph D. Lento specializes in student defense. Advisor Lento's knowledge and expertise allows him to identify issues during the hearing that negatively impact your chances of success. Whether it is bias or lack of evidence, advisor Lento is by your side when you're facing a stressful and complex situation with your law school panel. With many years of experience working with students nationwide, advisor Lento knows what to expect and helps you navigate this difficult time with less stress.
If you face accusations of academic misconduct at Brandies School of Law, fight back and seek justice. Contact the Lento Law Firm today for a discreet and thorough consultation at 888-535-3686.
