You cannot ignore a disciplinary misconduct allegation at Long Island University. Even if you’re facing a minor charge with a light sanction, any disciplinary misconduct on your record can cost you scholarships, graduate school opportunities, and even job offers. The moment you’re accused, it’s crucial that you contact the LLF National Law Firm to find out how we can help. 

Why us? Over the years, we’ve developed a national reputation as the premier firm when it comes to dealing with student issues. We have our own dedicated Student Defense Team. That team knows the law as it applies to you, and it’s familiar with all LIU processes and procedures. Whatever the charge, we’re on your side and ready to do whatever it takes to ensure you get the best possible resolution to your case.

First, though, you have to contact us. Call 888-535-3686 today to find out how we can help with your case. Or take a few minutes right now and fill out one of our online forms.

The LIU Student Code of Conduct

Unlike academic misconduct, which relates to your classroom behavior, disciplinary misconduct has to do with how you conduct yourself in the broader campus space. LIU maintains a complete list of the rules and regulations in its Student Code of Conduct Policy, and it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with this document if you haven’t already. Here, we want to focus on the most serious violations, though, the ones that tend to result in the most serious sanctions.

  • Physical Violence: The Code actually prohibits violence in multiple places. It’s mentioned under “Respect for Oneself” and under “Respect for Others.” Note, too, that the threat of violence is usually taken just as seriously as actual violence. The Code uses the language “jeopardizes” in reference to the impact of an offense.
  • Weapons Possession: The Code specifically outlaws the use and possession of firearms, knives, firecrackers, BB guns, swords, martial arts equipment, and pepper spray. In addition, you can be charged for possession of any “dangerous item” and for “replica” weapons. The Code even mentions snowballs with rocks in them.
  • Hazing: When it comes to hazing, the university doesn’t just prohibit physical endangerment. You can also be charged with threatening another student’s psychological and emotional well-being. In fact, students in recent years have been charged for nothing more serious than keeping pledges up too late at night.
  • Sexual Misconduct: This offense is actually mandated under Title IX, a government statute. Like all other colleges and universities, LIU is required to investigate credible complaints. In addition, the government encourages the use of harsh penalties in these cases.
  • Drug Use and Possession: LIU’s anti-drug policy is relatively straightforward. It bars the sale, purchase, and possession of illegal drugs. It bars possession of drug-related paraphernalia. It’s also worth knowing that you can be charged simply for being in the presence of illegal substances, even if you’re not actually using them.

Any one of these five offenses can lead to suspension or dismissal. Either can mean the end of your academic career. Even if you can return from a suspension, you may lose your financial aid package, and that can make it hard to graduate. In any event, you’ll still have to deal with a transcript notation about your offense, and that usually precludes transferring to another school.

Don’t risk these outcomes. Once LIU accuses you of an offense, it’s not on your side anymore. You need someone who is. The LLF National Law Firm exists to look out for your best interests and protect your rights.

The LIU Disciplinary System

The fact is, you have a long list of due process rights if you know how to use them effectively. For example, you’re entitled to a presumption of innocence. That means LIU needs concrete evidence to prove your responsibility (guilt), and it can’t just offer a list of “proof.” It must give you the chance to challenge that proof.

Here’s what you can expect.

  • Students have the option of filing complaints with the Department of Public Safety, the Dean’s Office, the Division of Student Affairs, a Residence Hall Director, or even a Resident Assistant. This then triggers an investigation.
  • If you’re under investigation, the university must provide you with notice of the charges. This notice should apprise you of your due process rights and include an explanation of the allegations.
  • Investigations are handled by the Dean of Students in conjunction with the Department of Public Safety. Note that you always have the right to provide your version of events. In addition, you’re entitled to review all evidence the university uncovers.
  • If the Dean’s Office finds evidence to substantiate charges, it will forward the case to a Student Conduct Officer for an Administrative Hearing. At that hearing, both sides have the right to offer physical evidence and call witnesses to testify. In addition, you may raise questions about any piece of evidence being used against you.
  • The Conduct Officer’s final decision must be based on the “preponderance of the evidence.” According to this legal standard, you are responsible for an offense only if it seems “more likely than not” that you committed that offense.
  • A “not responsible” outcome means the end of your case. You can appeal a “responsible” outcome if you can show that you were denied a fair opportunity to defend yourself. This usually means the university made some mistake in prosecuting your case, or you have uncovered some new piece of evidence since the end of your hearing.

The LLF National Law Firm can guide you through all of these steps and can work with you at every point to build your defense. We can work with you to track down evidence, identify your strongest arguments, coach you in talking with investigators, and even help you outline your hearing presentation. Our most important job, though, is ensuring that LIU respects all of your due process rights and that justice is done in your case.

Trust the LLF National Law Firm

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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