Most North Dakota higher education institutions, along with many colleges across the country, enforce what's formally known as a “code of conduct.” This code is a compilation of rules and regulations that are intended to maintain a harmonious and safe campus environment. Each school will undoubtedly have a different version of this code, so make sure you check your school's student handbook for clarity as to your school's expectations.
Students facing accusations of committing a disciplinary violation must undergo a disciplinary proceeding. Depending on your school, this proceeding may be conducted in the form of a hearing or another process. Ultimately, the goal is the same at every institution: to decide whether or not an accused student is “responsible” for violating school policy.
It's critical that you, as an accused student, understand that a responsible determination for even a seemingly minor violation can get you in serious trouble. Trouble that can not only halt the progress you've made academically but haunt you down the line in your professional life. With so much at stake, don't hesitate to seek guidance from an experienced North Dakota student defense attorney. An attorney's presence in your situation will maximize your chances of an equitable process and consequently, a fair result.
Common Code of Conduct Violations
Academic Misconduct
Academic misconduct is one of the most prevalent codes of conduct violations among college students. This is, in part, because students may be doing things that they may not realize is against school policy. Academic misconduct is any action that breaches academic integrity. It's a relatively vague definition, leaving plenty room for students to potentially mess up. A wide range of actions including cheating on a test, plagiarizing parts of an essay, forging a professor's signature, and merely being complicit while others are committing an academically dishonest act are all examples of academic misconduct.
Alcohol
As most students are aware of (and often disregard), underage drinking is against the law. Due to this law, virtually every college and university in North Dakota has rules that prohibit alcohol use by students under the legal drinking age of 21. But some institutions have decided to take their rules a step further by restricting student access to alcohol regardless of age. To clarify your school's policy on alcohol and underage drinking, check for a clear picture of your school's policies.
Disorderly Conduct
Disorderly conduct is characterized as a student's engagement in behavior that can be perceived as indecent, disruptive, or lewd. The nature of this conduct is difficult to understand for some with such a broad definition. A few examples, like public drunkenness, loitering, and acting recklessly in a crowded area are all a testament to how diverse and
Hazing
Hazing rituals are still prevalent in campus culture despite the perpetual controversy that surrounds greek life. These rituals aren't banned altogether, but they can lead to trouble if they get out of hand. If school administrators are under the impression that the rituals have humiliated, degraded, or endangered the safety of participants, those behind initiation procedures will be at risk of sanctioning.
North Dakota Disciplinary Violation Advisor
Guidance from 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.
North Dakota 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:
- Bismarck State College
- Cankdeska Cikana Community College
- Dakota College at Bottineau
- Dickinson State University
- Fort Berthold Community College
- Jamestown College
- Lake Region State College
- Mayville State University
- Minot State University
- North Dakota State College of Science
- North Dakota State University Main Campus
- Sitting Bull College
- Trinity Bible College
- Turtle Mountain Community College
- United Tribes Technical College
- University of Mary
- University of North Dakota
- Valley City State University
- Williston State College
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 North Dakota and throughout the nation. Make certain your or your student's interests are protected - Contact student defense attorney Joseph D. Lento today.
