Students at Clarion University are governed by a set of Conduct Policies intended to ensure a safe academic environment. The University sets forth a code of rules and regulations that govern its student body. Students who violate these rules are subject to disciplinary action under the University's authority. Students who violate the University's rules will be subjected to sanctions if they are found responsible for the violation.
Clarion University Disciplinary Process
When a student commits a violation of one of the University's rules or regulations, they will be subjected to the University's disciplinary process. Any member of the University community may file a complaint against another for an act of misconduct. Once a complaint is filed, it is referred to the Vice President for Student Affairs, and the process for resolving the complaint will begin.
Informal Resolutions
If a violation does not warrant potential sanctions of suspension or dismissal, it may be eligible for resolution through an informal process. Informal resolutions will be assigned an adjudication officer who will engage in a discussion with the student facing charges, and come to a resolution. If necessary, disciplinary sanctions may be assigned at this stage, however, the adjudication officer may also refer the case to a higher authority for a formal hearing if it is deemed necessary.
Formal Hearings
The Office of Judicial and Mediation Services will handle hearings that require further examination, and also those of a more serious nature. For students who face charges of serious violations, or potential sanctions of dismissal or suspension, a University Conduct Board will be assembled from a pool of members volunteering to serve to adjudicate these cases. Formal hearings will be led by the chair of the board chosen to hear and decide upon the case. There is no set agenda, and instead, the hearing will proceed according to the will and discretion of the chairperson. In spite of this, students who face charges from the University will, in theory, be granted certain rights throughout the process to defend themselves. Students may present their own evidence and supporting witnesses, and will, in theory, be guaranteed a fair amount of time to speak on their own case. After a sufficient amount of information has been heard as deemed appropriate by the board, the board will close the hearing for deliberations and decision making. Decisions are made using the standard of "more likely than not."
At hearings, students are permitted the accompaniment of an advisor of their own choosing. When choosing an advisor, students will find it helpful to have an attorney by their side at a hearing. An attorney will have specialized, courtroom-tested knowledge of methods regarding evidence presentation and argument construction that can strongly influence a student's chances at a hearing. An attorney can also make sure that the integrity of the University investigation and disciplinary proceedings is upheld. Protecting an accused student's rights and interests is a related critical role that an attorney can serve.
Appeals at Clarion University
In the event of an unfavorable hearing outcome, students have a chance to make an appeal. Appeals must be submitted through the University's Formal Appeal form within three (3) business days of receiving the hearing decision.The grounds for appeal are procedural error, new information, a claim that a decision was not reached on substantive evidence, or a claim that the sanctions are inappropriate to the offense.
If you or your student is facing disciplinary action from Clarion University, contact the LLF Law Firm today.
