Being forced to participate in the tumultuous journey of a disciplinary proceeding can be an overwhelming and isolating experience for any student. When faced with allegations of hazing, many undergraduates find themselves adrift in uncharted waters, often oblivious to the far-reaching consequences these accusations may have on their educational trajectory and future aspirations.
A prevalent misconception among students is the belief that they can resolve disciplinary issues by simply presenting their version of events at the hearing. This approach frequently leads to favorable outcomes, as colleges and universities possess well-established protocols and seasoned staff to manage these complex situations. Without adequate preparation and expert guidance, these students may inadvertently incriminate themselves or fail to present critical evidence in their defense.
The Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team offers a lifeline to students navigating these turbulent waters. Their comprehensive support spans the entire process, from the initial notification of the accusations to the final appeal.
Working closely with each student, the Student Defense Team crafts a robust defense strategy tailored to the case's specific circumstances. This meticulous approach includes thoroughly examining all evidence, identifying potential witnesses, and developing compelling defense arguments that align with the college or university's policies and procedures.
College should be a time of intellectual growth, personal development, and exciting opportunities. However, any disciplinary action for hazing can significantly affect such opportunities. To ensure you are not being unnecessarily punished, you need a strong defense. Call 888-535-3686 today or schedule a consultation online.
What is Hazing in Oklahoma?
Hazing is wholly prohibited in Oklahoma. Similar to other states, Oklahoma defines hazing as an activity that deliberately or carelessly endangers the physical or mental health or safety of a student for the purpose of being initiated or admitted into or affiliated with any college or university organization.
The law goes on to provide some examples of hazing activities, including:
- Branding,
- Whipping,
- Beating,
- Forced calisthenics,
- Exposure to the elements,
- Forced consumption of food, alcoholic beverages, drugs, or other substances,
- Prolonged sleep deprivation,
- Forced prolonged exclusion from social contact,
- Forced conduct that could result in humiliation, extreme embarrassment, or
- Any other kind of forced activity that could negatively impact the individual's dignity or mental health.
Hazing in Oklahoma Colleges and Universities
Understanding the state's prohibition against hazing is important for understanding the particular anti-hazing policies and procedures at your college or university. This is because, while every college and university may have an anti-hazing policy, they will vary from school to school.
For instance, at Oklahoma State University, hazing is defined as any activity that instigates or is likely to:
- instigate physical or mental discomfort or distress,
- demean, degrade, or disgrace any person,
- regardless of location, intent, or consent of participants,
- if done for the purpose of gaining admission or initiation into, affiliation with, or to continue membership in a group or organization.
The university goes on to define different types of hazing, such as:
- Subtle hazing: there is a power imbalance between members and potential members of an organization, and the potential members feel obligated to perform certain tasks or duties to feel like they belong. Examples of subtle hazing include setting curfews, sleep deprivation, and required calisthenics.
- Harassment hazing: these behaviors seek to confuse, frustrate, or cause the victim unnecessary stress, like yelling or screaming, personal servitude, or requiring the victim to wear embarrassing or uncomfortable clothing.
- Violent hazing: this type of behavior can cause physical, emotional, and psychological harm. Examples include forced nudity, branding or cutting, paddling or whipping, and forced consumption of alcohol or drugs.
Oklahoma State University instructs its students to report hazing experiences to the Student Support & Conduct offices. Once an incident has been reported, this office will investigate the issue and meet with the student or organization to determine if an administrative hearing or a hearing is necessary to adjudicate the complaint. If Student Conduct believes there is no violation after their investigation, they can have the complaint dropped.
However, if they believe there is credence to the allegation, they will notify the student of the administrative meeting or hearing date and time. During an administrative meeting at Oklahoma State University, the student or the organization will have a chance to present their side of the story and discuss the allegations fully. The conduct officer deliberating over the meeting will determine if the evidence presented made it more likely than not that the student or student organization violated the Code of Conduct.
If an organization or a student is required to attend a hearing instead of an administrative meeting, they must arrive at the hearing totally prepared to defend themselves. First, the complaining party will present their evidence and call witnesses. Then, the accused student will have a chance to question each of the witnesses and evidence. Once this step is completed, the accused student can present their information and witness testimony, which the complainant can question as well.
At the end of the hearing, after both sides have been fully heard, the hearing panel will deliberate on the arguments, evidence, and witness testimony presented. They will determine whether, based on the evidence, it is more likely than not that the accused student did commit an act of hazing.
If they decide the student or organization is responsible for hazing, they can be punished with one or more of the following sanctions:
- Written warning.
- Restitution.
- Educational and behavioral change requirements, like attending particular classes, workshops, or service-learning experiences.
- Having their privileges restricted, like losing university funding, forfeiting their rights to represent the university, using university facilities or vehicles, or participating in intramural sports or other organization events.
- Suspension.
- Revocation of organizational recognition.
- Dismissal from the university altogether.
Any of these sanctions can have long-term consequences for the individual and the student organization to which they belong.
They define hazing similarly at the University of Oklahoma but have different ways of handling such allegations. For instance, depending on the severity of the hazing accusations, the University of Oklahoma may implement a Direct Administrative Action plan. This plan restricts a student's rights within the university community, up to and including removal from this community.
The goal of the Direct Administrative Action plan is to protect the welfare or safety of the university community, preserve the orderly functioning of the school, and prevent anyone's public or private rights from being interfered with. Once this plan is imposed, the Office of Student Conduct will review the complaint and determine whether a Student Conduct Proceeding should be initiated and whether to remove the Direct Administrative Plan or to keep it in place.
The University of Oklahoma can also initiate a disciplinary hold on a student's records while the Student Conduct Proceedings are being conducted. This hold can prohibit the student from registering for classes until all of their punishments have been completed.
After the disciplinary proceeding concludes at your school, you will have the chance to appeal it.
The Appeals Process for Hazing in Oklahoma Colleges
The appeals process, like the disciplinary process, will change from school to school. However, most schools will deliver the appeal instructions with the hearing decision letter. These instructions will include who to submit it to, what grounds your appeal can be made on, and how long you must submit it after receiving the disciplinary hearing decision.
For example, at the University of Tulsa, if the students took part in an administrative or informal resolution process, they have five days after receiving the Student Conduct Administrator's decision to file their appeal with the Dean of Students. This appeal can only be made on the grounds that the sanction imposed was far more severe than the hazing incident they were accused of.
However, if the student participated in a formal resolution process at the University of Tulsa, they can appeal to the Office of Student Affairs within five days of receiving notice of the hearing's outcome. This appeal must be made on one of the following four grounds:
- The hearing was conducted unfairly and not in conformity with the university's procedures.
- The decision was not based on substantial information.
- The sanctions imposed were inappropriate, given the nature and severity of the accused conduct.
- There is new information now that is sufficient to alter the decision, but it was unavailable for the hearing.
The appeal panel will review the appeal and supporting information and determine whether the hearing decision should be overturned, affirmed, or modified in some way. Whatever they decide, it is final and cannot be appealed further.
Consequences for Hazing Disciplinary Actions
The potential consequences for Oklahoma students facing hazing allegations can be severe and far-reaching. Understanding the risks and knowing how to protect your rights is crucial in these challenging situations.
Colleges and universities in Oklahoma take hazing allegations very seriously and will not hesitate to punish students with suspension or dismissals from the school. These types of punishments are usually noted on the student's final transcript, making it difficult to gain admission to another college or university to continue their education or pursue a graduate degree. Not only will this affect the student's academic journey but their future career prospects as well.
Beyond the immediate academic consequences, hazing allegations can also take a toll on a student's mental and emotional health. Many students accused of hazing end up experiencing increased anxiety and stress, feelings of isolation and depression, loss of self-esteem and confidence, and difficulty concentrating on their studies. The psychological impact of these allegations can be just as damaging as the formal punishments.
Given the high stakes involved, it is incredibly important for Oklahoma college and university students accused of hazing to seek experienced legal representation. The Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team is uniquely qualified to help students navigate the complex disciplinary procedures at their schools. They will do their best to protect the student's rights throughout the process and gather evidence and witness testimony to strategize a strong defense on their behalf.
A single allegation should not derail your entire academic career. With proper legal guidance, you can navigate this challenging situation and work towards a positive resolution. By understanding the potential consequences and taking proactive steps to protect your rights, you can better navigate the complex landscape of hazing allegations and disciplinary proceedings.
Where Can The Lento Law Firm Help
The Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team has helped hundreds of students nationwide navigate their disciplinary proceedings, including those attending Oklahoma colleges and universities. For instance, they can help students at:
- Oklahoma State University
- University of Oklahoma
- The University of Tulsa
- Oklahoma City University
- Southwestern Oklahoma State University
- University of Central Oklahoma
- Northeastern State University
- East Central University
- Oral Roberts University
- Southeastern Oklahoma State University
- University of Science & Arts Oklahoma
- Mid-America Christian University
- Langston University
- Cameron University
- Oklahoma Wesleyan University
- Northwestern Oklahoma State University
- Oklahoma Christian University
- Oklahoma Baptist University
- Rogers State University
- Oklahoma Panhandle State University
- Spartan Colleges of Aeronautics and Technology
- Bacone College
- Southwestern Christian University
- Randall University
- University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
- Family of Faith Christian University
How The Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team Can Help
When confronted with hazing accusations, it is crucial you know your rights, namely that you have the right to present a defense and seek guidance from an attorney. Many students underestimate the gravity of these situations, attempting to handle their disciplinary proceedings alone, which often results in unfavorable outcomes and long-lasting ramifications.
The Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team has extensive experience guiding students through these challenging hearings. They understand the overwhelming nature of such proceedings and will work diligently to ensure you are well-prepared to defend yourself.
A single hazing allegation should not derail your academic journey or career prospects. With proper guidance, you can protect your rights and position on campus. Don't risk suffering from severe penalties or compromises to your goals. Work with the seasoned professionals at the Lento Law Firm. Our attorneys appreciate how confusing this process can be and will strive to help you understand every step of the way. Call 888-535-3686 today or schedule a consultation online.
