You came to the University of Memphis to earn a degree, so your focus is squarely on getting to class every day, studying for exams, and writing papers. Outside of those responsibilities, your primary focus is on having fun.

Spare a thought every once in a while, though, for how your behavior might impact your success and UofM. The thing is, you can probably survive a low grade or two. At worst, the university will put you on probation, but you’ll have plenty of chances to improve. A disciplinary misconduct offense, on the other hand, can have long-lasting consequences.

Whether you actually committed an offense or you’re the victim of some sort of misunderstanding, you need to take all allegations seriously. That means contacting the LLF National Law Firm at the first sign of trouble. Our Student Defense Team has helped hundreds of students just like you defend themselves from all types of charges. We’re familiar with UofM policies and procedures, and we can show you how to use your rights to protect yourself.

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.

UofM Rules and Regulations

Any offense at UofM can get you into trouble. Some offenses, though, carry more serious sanctions than others. Let’s take a close look at the five offenses that most often lead to suspension or dismissal.

  • Harm to Persons: In one way or another, all five of these offenses have something to do with “harm to persons.” It makes sense, then, to start with this offense. Note that this Code of Conduct violation doesn’t just refer to the actual physical harm you might do to someone. You can also be charged for “endangering” someone’s safety.
  • Weapons Possession: Tennessee state law grants some faculty the right to carry concealed handguns on campus. However, all students are prohibited from weapons use and possession. This restriction applies to firearms, ammunition, explosive devices, and even “replica” firearms.
  • Hazing: This offense has become a flashpoint for the media. As a result, schools take allegations extremely seriously. It isn’t just physical harm that matters either. You can also be charged for any action that threatens a person’s psychological or emotional well-being.
  • Sexual Misconduct: Colleges and universities are required by federal law (Title IX) to prevent sexual discrimination and harassment. UofM investigates all credible complaints of sexual misconduct, and it sets serious sanctions for offenders.
  • Substance Abuse: UofM bars all use and possession of illegal drugs, including marijuana. In addition, you are prohibited from misusing any prescription drug.

Keep in mind that suspension and dismissal also include a transcript notation about the nature of your offense. A notation like that can prevent you from transferring anywhere else. In fact, even if you manage to return from a suspension, you will still have to explain your offense at every job interview.

Don’t risk these outcomes. Remember that once you’ve been charged, UofM is your adversary. No one at the school is going to help you build your defense. You need someone in your corner. No one knows more about student defense than the attorneys at the LLF National Law Firm.

The UofM Disciplinary System

A disciplinary misconduct charge can be scary, and you don’t want to try to deal with it on your own. A charge isn’t the same as a responsible (guilty) finding, though. You do have the right to defend yourself. Under its own policies, the University of Memphis must provide you with due process protections, including the presumption of innocence (non-responsibility).

  • Cases typically begin when someone lodges a complaint against you with the Office of Student Accountability (OSA). This office must decide whether a complaint is credible before it proceeds.
  • If the OSA decides to charge you, you’ll receive notice of those charges. This notice should explain the complaint, so you know exactly what you’re being accused of having done. In addition, it should include a complete list of your due process rights.
  • The OSA should also conduct some type of investigation. As part of this investigation, you’ll have the opportunity to give your side of the story and to submit evidence of your innocence. Note, too, that the OSA must keep you informed about all evidence it uncovers during the investigation.
  • In all cases, you have the right to request a hearing before the Student Conduct Board (SCB). At this hearing, both sides get to present evidence and call witnesses. In addition, you have the right to raise questions about any evidence being used against you. This includes the right to ask witnesses questions.
  • Ultimately, the SCB is tasked with determining whether there is a “preponderance of evidence” against you. This means that if Board members believe it is “more likely than not” that you committed the offense, they must find you responsible for that offense.
  • The Student Code of Conduct also affords you the right to appeal the hearing outcome. To do so, you must have sufficient “grounds.” This means some evidence that you were denied a fair chance to present your case.

What is your LLF National Law Firm attorney’s role during this process? To prepare you for every procedure and make sure the university respects your rights every step of the way. Your attorney can help you identify evidence of your innocence and make sure you’re ready to talk with investigators. They’ll draft your hearing presentation and suggest questions you can ask witnesses. Most importantly, they’ll make certain that you get the best possible resolution to your case.

The LLF National Law Firm is Always 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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