When it comes to university misconduct charges, it doesn't get much more serious than hazing. Hazing allegations show up in the paper. They often involve dozens of students, and they can include multiple charges in addition to hazing, like underage drinking, disorderly conduct, and even Title IX sexual misconduct. More often than not, they also lead to severe sanctions for anyone involved—suspension at minimum and, frequently, dismissal.
Any time your academic and professional futures are at risk, you cannot afford to try and handle the situation on your own. The good news is that you don't have to. Michigan State allows students accused of misconduct to select advisors to help them prepare their defenses. Even better, you're allowed to choose an attorney to serve in this role.
Make the most of this opportunity. No one knows more about protecting student rights than the attorneys who work for the Lento Law Firm. Our Student Defense Team has helped hundreds of students respond to all types of misconduct charges, including hazing. We know MSU's rules and regulations, and we know how the university's judicial system operates. We'll ensure you're treated fairly and that you get the best possible resolution to your case.
You need to act quickly, though. You can be sure the university is preparing its case against you. You need to be preparing your defense. Call 888-535-3686 today to find out how we can help, or take a few minutes right now and fill out one of our online forms.
Defining Hazing at Michigan State University
The most important step to avoiding a hazing charge at MSU? Avoid hazing. Unfortunately, that's sometimes easier said than done. The university's hazing policy is so broad that if you're involved in any campus organization, you're at risk of an allegation.
Let's start by exploring Michigan State's hazing definition so you'll have some idea of what can get you into trouble.
- The hazing cases that involve injury and death are the ones that most often make headlines. You can also be charged for causing "mental […] harm," though. The fact is that students have found themselves accused in recent years over everything from simple verbal harassment to writing on pledges' hands and arms with permanent markers.
- Additionally, you don't have to cause actual harm to be charged with a hazing offense. MSU's definition uses the phrase “creates a substantial risk of,” as in if your actions create a risk of harm, you've likely committed a hazing offense.
- MSU's hazing policy applies to "any group," not just Greek organizations. It doesn't matter whether you're involved in a fraternity or an honor society; you're responsible for following all hazing regulations.
- Hazing is most often associated with pledge initiation. However, it's sometimes used to ensure continued participation in an organization or as a means of inducting members into leadership roles. All of these activities are prohibited under MSU policy.
- The "willingness" of pledges to participate in hazing activities will not save you from a charge of misconduct. When membership in the organization is at stake, participants cannot be said to "consent" to activities.
Hazing isn't just counter to Michigan State policy. It's also prohibited under Michigan state law, and violations can result in misdemeanor or felony charges and significant jail time.
Keep in mind, however, that MSU's policy is not dependent on the law. In fact, the university's rules are stricter than Michigan statutes. Even if the state refuses to prosecute or does prosecute and finds you innocent of all charges, that will not prevent the MSU from conducting its own investigation and hearing or from imposing its own penalties.
Defending Yourself From Hazing Allegations
If you've been accused of any type of misconduct at MSU—including hazing—you're entitled to due process protections. For instance, the university must treat you as innocent ("Not Responsible") until you are proven guilty ("Responsible"). Guilt must be based on a "preponderance of evidence," and you have the right to refute evidence at a full and formal hearing.
- Anyone can file a hazing complaint against you, from pledges to other campus organizations. The university takes all complaints seriously, but it must believe allegations are credible before moving forward with a charge of hazing.
- Further, you're entitled to written notice of any charges against you. This notice should explain the allegations and apprise you of all your due process rights.
- Next, MSU initiates an investigation to uncover the facts of the case. You have the right to give your side of the story to investigators and to suggest witnesses for them to interview.
- Hazing investigations can be complex and sometimes take weeks or even months to complete. Throughout the process, though, you have the right to review any evidence that has been uncovered.
- At the hearing, you have the right to offer any argument in support of your innocence and to present evidence to back those arguments. You may call witnesses to testify. Of course, the other side will have the same opportunity.
- All misconduct cases at MSU are decided using a legal standard known as “preponderance of the evidence.” In simple terms, board members must find you responsible (guilty) if they believe it is “more likely than not” that you committed an offense.
- Even if you should lose your hearing, you still have the right to appeal. However, MSU strictly limits the grounds for appeal to issues of fairness, such as the discovery of new evidence, a procedural error committed by the hearing board, or a disproportionate sanction.
From the moment you're charged, you can count on your Lento Law Firm attorney to work on your behalf. They'll accompany you to investigative meetings, for instance, and help you answer questions. They'll work with you to uncover evidence and develop your defense strategy. They'll draft documents on your behalf, suggest questions for witnesses, and even coach you in presenting your case. Beyond all of this, they'll also keep a close eye on proceedings and make sure you're treated fairly at every step of the way.
Fighting for Your Future
Hazing is a serious offense, and a Responsible finding can mean serious sanctions. Just because you've been charged, though, doesn't mean you'll necessarily be found Responsible. The Lento Law Firm's Student Defense Team can make sure you're fully prepared to defend yourself. They can insist Michigan State afford you every due process right to which you are entitled. In the end, they offer you your very best chance of success.
Let the Lento Law Firm help you fight for your academic future. To find out more, contact us today at 888-535-3686. Or, fill out our online questionnaire.
