When you graduate from college and start to work, you probably carry memories of fun times with your friends, you might bring some financial debt, and this is all part of the standard post-college experience. But what you probably don't expect is to lose your degree after you've earned it. That's the situation two Texas graduates have found themselves in.

Texas Colleges Pursue Degree Revocation

In late September, the Texas Supreme Court heard oral arguments for a case involving two graduates from Texas public colleges. These former students graduated from the University of Texas at Austin and Texas State University with their doctorate degrees and are suing the schools.

Suvi Orr received her degree in 2008 from UT-Austin. After graduation, accusations arose that Orr had falsified data in her dissertation. UT-Austin has tried twice to revoke her degree, and Orr sued the school to stop the revocation. According to Orr, “she wasn't granted due process during a university investigation of the academic misconduct claims.”
Another student, identified only by her initials, K.E., is fighting Texas State's attempt to revoke her doctorate in biology—which she received in 2011.

These former students have jobs and have been out of school for more than ten years. Loss of their degrees would severely impact their professional lives. The schools argue that they are trying to protect the value of their degrees.

Academic Misconduct Charges Can Surface at Any Point

Whether you're a student or a graduate, accusations of academic integrity violations should be something that you take seriously. You've put time, energy, and money into your higher education, and it's critical to protect your investment.

If this (combined) case demonstrates anything, it is that students should always be concerned with ensuring that they receive due process at their schools in instances of allegations of academic dishonesty. And, these accusations might not have a statute of limitations—schools could potentially raise concerns at any point after graduation and attempt to rescind your degree.

Nationwide Education Attorney-Advisor to Assist With Academic Dishonesty Allegations

Accusations about cheating can arise at any time, whether you're a student at the college or a graduate working out in the world. If your school is threatening your degree, it's important to find an attorney-advisor who's experienced with this specialized area. Joseph D. Lento and the Lento Law Firm have assisted countless families all throughout the country. They can help you navigate the process at your school in order to achieve the best possible results. Contact the Lento Law Firm today with your questions by calling 888.535.3686 or reaching out online.