Disciplinary misconduct allegations are serious. How serious? Let’s put it this way: you can survive a low grade at Columbia Southern. You can probably survive two or three low grades. Commit the wrong disciplinary misconduct offense, though, and you could be looking for a new school.

Of course, we all make mistakes. The LLF National Law Firm doesn’t believe a mistake should jeopardize your future. Or maybe you didn’t actually make a mistake at all. Maybe you’re the victim of a simple misunderstanding. Once an investigation gets started, though, you can’t be sure where it may lead.

Whatever your situation, the LLF National Law Firm’s Student Defense Team is on your side. We’re defense attorneys, but we focus on student issues. We’ve helped hundreds of students just like you defend themselves from all types of disciplinary misconduct charges.

What can we do for you? Call 888-535-3686 today to find out, or take a few minutes right now and fill out one of our online forms.

The Rules and Regulations at Columbia Southern University

All colleges and universities maintain a Student Code of Conduct. Because Columbia Southern operates entirely online, its Code is particularly opaque. As a result, it can sometimes be difficult to know exactly what is and what isn’t an offense. Let’s take a look at some examples. Even so, you can be held accountable for a wide range of offenses, from theft to misuse of computer resources.

Here are five of the most serious offenses you can commit.

  • “Display of harmful, threatening behavior”: Not exactly the clearest way to say this: in simple terms, Columbia Southern prohibits violence and any activity that threatens violence.
  • Weapons Possession: Columbia Southern’s Code doesn’t actually bar weapons possession as such. However, violation of any state or federal law is an offense under the Code. Alabama law bars the possession of any firearm on a college campus. Thus, by default, this is also a Code offense.
  • Hazing: CSU’s anti-hazing policy isn’t mentioned in the Code. Nor is “hazing” explained in this policy. Under Alabama state law, though, hazing includes any activity connected to initiation into an organization that endangers another person’s physical, psychological, or emotional well-being.
  • Sexual Misconduct: This offense is covered under federal law (Title IX). The government requires all schools to investigate credible complaints, and it encourages the use of harsh sanctions.
  • Substance Abuse: Again, the Code doesn’t specifically mention drug use or possession. However, such conduct is a violation of the law. Even marijuana remains illegal under federal statutes.

When the rules are difficult to parse, there’s a higher chance you may commit one by mistake. And any offense can have long-term consequences. Suspension and dismissal, of course, put your academic future at risk. Even a warning for a relatively minor offense like “disrespect of university personnel” can cost you scholarships, graduate school opportunities, and even job offers.

Combine the fact that the policy is confusing with the fact that so much is at stake, and you simply cannot afford to respond to a charge all on your own. You need the best possible help you can find. That means contacting the LLF National Law Firm. We’re familiar with all CSU policies and procedures, and we can show you how to use your rights to protect yourself.

CSU Disciplinary Procedures

It turns out the disciplinary system at CSU can be just as confusing as the rules and regulations. Just navigating the process can be tricky. You have some important due process rights any time you’re accused of violating school policy. It’s not always easy, though, to figure out what these rights are and how to use them.

  • All misconduct allegations are handled by the Director of Student Resolution and Conduct. Anyone may accuse you of an offense, but only this official has the authority to issue formal charges against you.
  • Any time you are charged, you are entitled to notice of those charges. This notice must include an explanation of the allegations and a list of your due process rights.
  • The Director is responsible for conducting a preliminary investigation into the matter. Keep in mind that you are innocent until proven guilty (“not responsible until proven responsible”). This means the university must have evidence in order to overcome this presumption. As part of the investigation, you have the right to give your side of the story. In addition, the university must allow you to review any evidence it uncovers.
  • Following the investigation, the Director assembles a committee of three university members to “review” the case. CSU policy makes no mention of a formal hearing, but you have the right to offer evidence, including witness testimony in support of your innocence. In addition, you should have an opportunity to raise questions about any evidence being used against you.
  • The standard of responsibility at CSU is “preponderance of the evidence.” According to this standard, you are responsible for an offense if it seems “more likely than not” that you committed that offense.
  • The disciplinary process itself doesn’t provide for a formal means of appealing a “responsible” outcome. However, you are entitled to make use of the school’s grievance process if you feel you were mistreated in any way during the investigation and hearing.

Whatever the charges, whatever the situation, your LLF National Law Firm attorney will use every resource at our disposal to get you the best possible resolution to your case. We can help you identify evidence, coach you in talking with investigators, and make sure your evidentiary exhibits are clear and compelling. We’ll make sure the university treats you fairly and respects all of your due process rights.

We’re On Your Side

Handling your own disciplinary misconduct case puts your entire future at risk. Make sure you have a professional on your side, someone who not only knows how to construct a strong defense but who has experience helping student clients defend themselves from university charges. The LLF National Law Firm’s Student Defense Team will make sure you’re fully prepared to defend yourself. They’ll protect your rights. They’ll help you get the very best possible resolution to your case.

Sometimes, you have to fight for your educational future. We can help. To find out more, contact the LLF National Law Firm today at 888-535-3686, or fill out our online questionnaire.

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