We're certainly not going to defend hazing. You already know just how dangerous hazing can be, and we're fully in favor of state laws and school policies forbidding the activity.
Not every accused student is guilty, though. Misunderstandings happen. False allegations sometimes happen. No student should have to suffer a sanction when they are innocent of the charges.
It's also worth noting that colleges and universities generally take misconduct too seriously. It is not at all unusual for a school like Northwestern to suspend a student or dismiss them entirely when a lesser sanction like probation would have served. Put simply, even if you did make a mistake, you should never just accept an allegation or the proposed penalty that goes with it.
The Lento Law Firm's Student Defense Team is always on your side, whatever the situation. We know the stakes. We also know how Northwestern processes and procedures work and how to use your rights to your best advantage. Whatever your situation, you can count on us to use every resource at our disposal and to fight to get you the best possible resolution to your case.
If you've been charged with hazing, don't wait. Call 888-535-3686, or take a few minutes right now and fill out one of our online forms.
Defining Hazing at Northwestern University
Hazing isn't just a matter of Northwestern school policy. It's prohibited under Illinois state law. It is worth noting, though, that university rules and regulations go even further than the law. Under the law, for instance, you can only be charged with hazing if actual physical harm occurs to another person. Northwestern also bars any action that a person could experience as "mental, physical, or emotional discomfort; servitude; degradation; embarrassment; harassment; or ridicule." Under a definition this broad, even a poorly chosen comment could result in a hazing charge.
Here's what else the Northwestern policy has to say about hazing.
- Hazing doesn't just happen in connection with Greek activities on campus. In fact, Northwestern's hazing definition doesn't mention fraternities or sororities at all. Instead, it refers to any "group, team, or other organization.” Even an honor society can find itself accused of hazing.
- Hazing also isn't just about initiation into an organization. Activities are sometimes required for continued membership in a group, for example.
- Northwestern makes clear that hazing charges apply to activities conducted both on and off campus.
- “Consent” is not a valid defense to hazing charges. Any time membership in an organization is dependent on participation in hazing activities, a person cannot, by definition, consent to those activities.
While Northwestern designates hazing as a misconduct offense, the university does not describe the particular penalties associated with this offense. Sanctions depend on the precise nature of the offense and the context surrounding it.
Hazing has become a matter of public scrutiny, however. Incidents frequently wind up in the paper, for example, and politicians keep a close watch on how schools respond to these incidents. As a result, most colleges and universities issue severe penalties to anyone found Responsible for an offense. Suspension is usually the minimum sanction, and dismissal is common.
You cannot afford to risk your academic future over a hazing allegation. The moment you're charged—the moment you think you might be charged—it's vital that you contact the Lento Law Firm. There's too much at stake to try and handle your defense on your own or to hire a local attorney with no student misconduct experience.
Defending Yourself From Hazing Allegations
While a hazing allegation is serious, it's important to know that Northwestern can't simply accuse you and punish you. Under the university's own policies, you are entitled to due process. You must be treated as “Not Responsible” (innocent), for instance, until such time as you are proven “Responsible” (guilty).
Here's what you can expect.
- Cases typically begin with a complaint lodged with the Office of Community Standards (OCS). However, the OCS must determine whether the complaint is credible and actionable before issuing any formal charges.
- Any time you are under investigation, Northwestern must supply you with Notice of the Charges. This should include a complete explanation of the allegations and a full list of your due process rights.
- As part of the investigation, you should have the opportunity to give your side of the story. In addition, investigators will interview any Complainants (alleged victims) and any witnesses to the incident. Finally, they'll also collect any physical evidence.
- Ultimately, investigators are tasked with submitting a written report of their findings. This report then serves as the foundation for the hearing that follows.
- A campus hearing is your best opportunity to argue for your innocence or explain your actions. You may introduce evidence and call witnesses. You also have the right to cross-examine any witnesses against you.
- Once both sides have made their cases, decision-makers deliberate as to the level of your Responsibility (guilt). To do this, they employ a legal standard known as “preponderance of the evidence.” In simple terms, you are guilty if they are more than fifty percent convinced you committed the offense.
- Northwestern also maintains a process of appealing hearing outcomes. However, you cannot appeal simply because you disagree with that outcome. You must have some evidence that you were treated unfairly by the process.
A hazing case is almost never simple. Often, for example, there are multiple Respondents (accused students), and it can be difficult separating out who did what. You can sometimes be accused of hazing even if you didn't participate directly. Many cases come down to subtle interpretations of school policy. This is yet another reason why you need the Lento Law Firm attorney in your corner. We're experienced with hazing defenses. We know what to expect from Northwestern's judicial system, and we can make sure you're prepared for anything you have to face.
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 Northwestern 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.
