College students who attend Maryland higher education institutions are required to abide by a set of rules known as a “code of conduct.” These rules are enforced to maintain a safe campus community. If a student is accused of violating this code, they will undergo a disciplinary proceeding to determine whether or not this allegation is valid.
An adverse outcome of a disciplinary proceeding can lead to serious consequences that may jeopardize a student's college career, and haunt them in their future professional endeavors. This is why students facing allegations of a disciplinary violation should seek representation from an experienced Maryland attorney advisor.
Common Code of Conduct Violations
Every institution is different, so the rules will not always look the same at every school. But in my experience as an attorney advisor, here are some of the most commonly charged code of conduct violations:
Alcohol
The majority of colleges and universities have rules pertaining to alcohol use on campus. Most institutions restrict alcohol consumption and possession under the age of 21, whereas others may have limitations concerning alcohol use regardless of age. At almost every school, however, there will be repercussions for providing alcoholic drinks for students who are underage.
Bullying
Bullying is defined as verbal, written, physical, or electronic act that invokes substantial harm to another student or group of students. If a behavior interferes with another student's ability to get an education, or creates a threatening or intimidating environment, or is significantly disrupting the operation of the college, it is considered bullying and will be sanctioned.
Disorderly Conduct
A student who chooses to engage in conduct that can be characterized as lewd, disruptive, or indecent, will be accused of committing disorderly conduct. This behavior doesn't have to be intentional to be found responsible for this misconduct. As long as the actions disturb a peaceful campus environment, a student will most likely be sanctioned.
Drugs
The unlawful, use, purchase, possession, or distribution of illicit drugs, controlled substances, or paraphernalia is prohibited on all campuses.
Hazing
Hazing rituals still ensue across colleges and universities across the country. These rituals are only considered a violation of school policy when they get out of hand. If it is discovered that a hazing ritual includes conduct that endangers, degrades, or humiliates a person, the students involved will be sanctioned.
Physical Misconduct / Assault / Violence
Fighting or any other unwanted physical contact against another person is not allowed on campus.
Theft
Theft is defined as the act of taking or attempting to take the property of another without their consent. There are various forms of theft that are characterized by the circumstances in which property is stolen.
Maryland Disciplinary Violation Advisor
For respondents especially, the assistance of an attorney advisor is invaluable in the disciplinary process. National student defense attorney Joseph D. Lento has the skill, experience, and expertise to help you preserve your entitled rights under your school's policy. For a case evaluation or more information about his representation, contact him online or give him a call at 888-535-3686 today.
Maryland colleges and universities where Joseph D. Lento can help as your or your student's disciplinary violation advisor during investigations, hearings, and appeals include, but are not limited to, the following schools:
- Bowie State University
- Capitol Technology University
- Coppin State University
- Frostburg State University
- Goucher College
- Hood College
- Johns Hopkins University
- Loyola University Maryland
- Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA)
- Maryland University of Integrative Health
- McDaniel College
- Morgan State University
- Mount St. Mary's University
- Notre Dame of Maryland University
- St. John's College
- St. Mary's College of Maryland
- Salisbury University
- Stevenson University
- Towson University
- United States Naval Academy
- University of Baltimore
- University of Maryland, Baltimore
- University of Maryland, Baltimore County
- University of Maryland, College Park
- University of Maryland, Eastern Shore
- University of Maryland, University College
- University of Maryland, Biotechnology Institute
- University of Maryland, Environmental Science
- USM Hagerstown
- Universities at Shady Grove
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences
College disciplinary violations can impact an accused student's life if not defended against properly and as early as possible during the disciplinary process, and Joseph D. Lento has a decade of experience passionately fighting for the future of his clients at colleges and universities throughout the nation. He does not settle for the easiest outcome, and instead, prioritizes his clients' needs and well-being. Joseph Lento is a licensed attorney in New Jersey and New York, is admitted as an attorney pro hac vice in state and federal court if needed when representing clients nationwide, and serves as a student advisor and educational consultant to students facing disciplinary cases in Maryland and throughout the nation. Make certain your or your student's interests are protected - Contact student defense attorney Joseph D. Lento today.
