Many colleges and universities in Rhode Island have what's known as a “code of conduct.” It is a set of rules for students to follow in order to maintain a safe environment. In the event that a student has been accused of violating this code, they will have to undergo a disciplinary proceeding to determine whether or not they are “responsible” for breaking the rules. The disciplinary process looks different at every school. Check your school's student handbook to see how your school facilitates disciplinary proceedings.
A finding of responsibility for a violation of the code of conduct can get you in serious trouble. Trouble that can not only derail their college career but can affect you down the line in your professional life. To maximize your chances of a favorable outcome and to ensure the process is equitable, you should seek representation from an experienced Rhode Island advisor.
Common Code of Conduct Violations
Academic Misconduct
Academic misconduct is an act that breaches academic integrity. Fabrication, cheating, and plagiarism are all very common examples of violations of this nature.
Alcohol
Obviously, most colleges and universities have rules pertaining to alcohol use amongst students on campus. All institutions restrict alcohol use for students under the age of 21 because it is against the law. However, some schools have limitations concerning alcohol consumption and possession for students who are above the legal age limit. But at almost every school, there will undoubtedly be repercussions for providing alcohol beverages to underage students.
Bullying
Bullying is characterized as an act that causes significant harm to another student or group of students. Bullying can be carried out verbally, physically, and even electronically. If a victim files a complaint that this behavior has interfered with their education, or has created an intimidating or hostile environment for them, the school will not take their allegations lightly.
Disorderly Conduct
Disorderly conduct is defined as any behavior that can be considered disruptive, indecent, or lewd, regardless of the perpetrator's intentions.
Drugs
The unlawful use, purchase, distribution, or possession of illicit drugs, controlled substances, or paraphernalia is prohibited on all campuses.
Hazing
Hazing rituals are definitely still a huge part of campus culture in some institutions. It is only when these rituals get out of hand that students will be accused of violating their school's code of conduct. According to most schools, if hazing rituals include conduct that endangers, degrades, or humiliates a person, the students involved will be sanctioned.
Physical Misconduct / Assault / Violence
Fighting or any unwanted physical contact against another person is not allowed on campus.
Theft
Theft is defined as the act of taking or attempting to take another person's property without their permission. Stealing from the school is also punishable.
Rhode Island Disciplinary Violation Advisor
The help of an attorney advisor in a disciplinary proceeding is invaluable. 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.
Rhode Island 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:
- Brown University
- Bryant University
- Community College of Rhode Island
- Johnson & Wales University – Providence
- Naval War College
- New England Institute of Technology
- Providence College
- Rhode Island College
- Rhode Island School of Design
- Roger Williams University
- Salve Regina University
- University of Rhode Island
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 Rhode Island and throughout the nation. Make certain your or your student's interests are protected - Contact student defense attorney Joseph D. Lento today.
