No matter your child's age, it can be extremely overwhelming to learn they have been accused of a hate crime at school. However, the number of hate crimes occurring at elementary and secondary schools across the U.S. has more than doubled in the last five years, with schools becoming the third most common place for them to occur. 

Unfortunately, this also means that many students are being disciplined after being falsely accused by overzealous school administrators. When this happens, they can face several harsh consequences.  

At Lento Law Firm, our experienced attorneys have helped families all over the country navigate disciplinary actions by their schools to mitigate any unnecessary consequences. If your child has been accused of a hate crime, they need a strong defense. Call Lento Law Firm at 888-535-3686 today or schedule a consultation online.  

What is a Hate Crime? 

A hate crime is a broad term for any crime that is motivated by a person's bias against another person's race, gender, national origin, disability, color, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Furthermore, under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, it is illegal to discriminate against someone because of their color, race, and national origin at activities, or in programs, that receive federal financial assistance.  

Thus, if a student discriminates against another student on school grounds or at a school function, the school receives federal financial assistance, and the discriminating act was motivated by one of the protected classes described above, the acting student may be responsible for a hate crime.  

Overzealous School Policies 

In the U.S., schools are tasked with developing policies and procedures that explain how they want their students to behave and the punishments they could receive if they violate these rules. Almost all schools have a specific policy that prohibits discrimination, hate speech, or hate crimes.  

When a student is accused of committing a hate crime at school or at a school-sponsored activity, the school is usually quick to discipline them. However, many schools overreact when they receive a report of misconduct, making conclusions that it is discrimination without truly looking into the incident. When this happens, the accused student needs to defend themselves appropriately or risk having to endure negative consequences for the foreseeable future.  

For instance, if a high school student is found responsible for a hate crime and expelled from the school, they will find it difficult to be admitted to any other high school. They may have to finish their degree by pursuing a GED. Moreover, when they go to apply to college, they will have to explain the expulsion to the admissions committee – which can make it quite hard to get accepted. 

How Lento Law Firm Can Help 

To prevent your child from being harmed – both emotionally and mentally – it is important you work with a skilled student defense attorney. The Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team understands how overwhelming these accusations can be. They will work tirelessly to ensure you have a strong defense. Call our offices today at 888-535-3686 or schedule a conference online.