College students attending New Jersey 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 accusation is valid.
An unfavorable outcome of a disciplinary proceeding can lead to serious consequences that can jeopardize a student's college career and can haunt them in their professional life. This is why students facing allegations of a disciplinary violation should seek representation from an experienced New Jersey advisor.
Common Code of Conduct Violations
Academic Misconduct
Academic integrity is important for the maintenance of a thriving learning environment. This is why colleges and universities are so serious about imposing regulations that preserve academic integrity. If students fail to comply with these rules, they will be found “responsible” for academic misconduct - a blatant violation of every school's code of conduct and an act that's perceived as reprehensible in academic settings.
Alcohol
Most colleges and universities have rules concerning alcohol consumption on campus. The majority of institutions restrict alcohol use for students under the age of 21, whereas others may have restrictions concerning alcohol use regardless of age. At almost every school, there will be consequences for providing alcoholic drinks for students who are underage.
Bullying
Bullying is defined as any written, verbal, electronic or physical act that causes substantial harm to another student or group of students. If a behavior interferes with another person's education, creates a threatening or intimidating environment, or is substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the college, this behavior can and will be sanctioned.
Disorderly Conduct
A student who chooses to engage in behavior that can be considered disruptive, lewd, or indecent will be accused of committing disorderly conduct. The behavior doesn't have to be intentional to be found responsible for this misconduct. As long as the actions disturb the peaceful campus environment, a student will most likely be sanctioned.
Drugs
The unlawful possession, use, purchase, or distribution of illicit drugs, controlled substances, or paraphernalia is prohibited on all campuses.
Hazing
Hazing rituals are still being conducted across college and university campuses across the nation. 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 degrades, endangers, 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.
Sexual Misconduct
Sexual misconduct in all of its forms - sexual harassment, sexual assault, rape, dating violence etc. - is still rampant in higher education settings. Hence why any actions that could possibly constitute sexual misconduct is a blatant violation of every school's code of conduct, and most importantly, federal law Title IX.
Theft
Theft is defined as the act of taking or attempting to take the property of another without their permission. There are various types of theft that are characterized by the circumstances in which something is stolen.
New Jersey Disciplinary Violation Advisor
For respondents especially, the assistance of an attorney advisor is invaluable in the disciplinary process. New Jersey 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.
New Jersey colleges and universities where Joseph D. Lento can help as your or your student's disciplinary advisor during investigations, hearings, and appeals include, but are not limited to, the following schools:
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 Pennsylvania and New Jersey, 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 New Jersey and throughout the nation. Make certain your or your student's interests are protected - Contact student defense attorney Joseph D. Lento today.
