As part of efforts to foster a safe learning environment for their students, universities take reports of hazing very seriously, often doling out severe punishments with overly harsh consequences. The University of Arizona strictly prohibits hazing and investigates any complaints through the school's Student Disciplinary Procedures, which may leave accused students vulnerable to serious sanctions like suspension and even expulsion. If you are facing hazing accusations at the University of Arizona, it is essential that you secure the best defense possible as early as possible to maximize your chances at a favorable outcome. Call the Lento Law Firm today at 888-535-3686 or tell us about your case online.
How Does the University of Arizona Define Hazing?
The University of Arizona explicitly defines hazing in their university policies as an act committed either individually or as a group that is connected with the initiation, affiliation, or membership of a university organization and also results in or creates a substantial risk of physical or mental harm or degradation. Acts of hazing are committed by a student or group of students against another student or group of students. This includes recently accepted or enrolled and incoming students. When you think of hazing, fraternities and sororities are likely the type of organizations that come to mind, but many schools, including the University of Arizona, define the organization as any association, club, athletic team, or other collective of university students.
What is the University of Arizona's Hazing Policy?
The University of Arizona strictly prohibits hazing as well as any solicitation to participate in hazing and aiding and abetting the act of hazing. Furthermore, the university, as is the case with many colleges and state governments, does not accept consent as a reasonable defense against charges of hazing. In response to any reports of hazing, the school defers to the University of Arizona Student Code of Conduct, which includes hazing in its extensive list of prohibited conduct and details potential sanctions that accused students could be facing.
What are the Investigative Procedures for Hazing Accusations at the University of Arizona?
The University of Arizona also details the specific disciplinary procedures put in place to investigate students accused of hazing and other conduct violations. The University places this responsibility with the Dean of Students, who considers formal reports and any other credible evidence before beginning an investigation. The Dean may also hold interviews and conduct a preliminary search for additional evidence in order to determine if a formal investigation is necessary. Assuming that the Dean determines that the hazing accusations should be investigated further, the accused student may find themselves slapped with an interim action. This may include a temporary suspension or temporary revocation of student organization memberships and privileges. After meeting with the student to hear their response to collected reports and relevant evidence, the Dean of Students can make a determination as to whether or not the accused student has committed an act of hazing. If necessary, the Dean will then choose which disciplinary sanction to impose. In the face of serious sanctions such as suspension or expulsion, as is often the case with hazing charges, the student will be afforded the right to an official hearing in front of the University Hearing Board.
What is the Hearing Process for Accusations of Hazing at the University of Arizona?
If the investigative process leads to a hearing, the student will be informed in writing of the date and details of the hearing. This notification will include a notice that they have a right to have an advisor present. This advisor can and should be an attorney. The experienced education attorneys at the Lento Law Firm have many years of experience handling disciplinary procedures at universities and defending students accused of hazing nationwide. At the hearing, both the student and the University's representative will be able to submit evidence, witnesses, and oral presentation. The accused student and their advisor or attorney will also be allowed to examine any witnesses that the university's representative presents. At the conclusion of the hearing, the Hearing Board will first determine whether or not the accused student committed an act of hazing, and then they will determine an appropriate sanction.
This determination, although influential, is not final, as the Board will only make a recommendation to the provost, who will make the final decision and sanction. As noted above, universities often take hazing charges very seriously, and while consequences for misconduct can often take the form of a written warning or probation, students accused of hazing could also find themselves facing suspension, expulsion, and even degree revocation. Fortunately, once the provost has made their decision, students do have the right to file an appeal within 15 days. If you are facing a harsh sanction as a result of hazing charges and you would like to appeal the university's decision, it may not be too late to reach out to a student defense attorney for help.
Hire the Lento Law Firm to Defend You Against Hazing Accusations at the University of Arizona
The Lento Law Firm's Student Defense Team understands how to negotiate with university officials and appreciates the severity of the consequences that can come with accusations of hazing. Permanent marks on your transcript, suspensions, and potential dismissals are all sanctions that can stick with you for years to come and seriously derail your future. If you want to safeguard your academic and professional career, it is imperative that you take advantage of your right to have an experienced educational attorney by your side. Rely on the Lento Law Firm's Education Law Team and their many years of experience to defend your rights and your future. Call us today at 888-535-3686 or tell us about your case online.
