University dismissals are typically handled on campus, with a board making all decisions. Students may be allowed an appeal, but once that decision has been made, the case is considered closed. For some former students, though, the decision later moved to the court system, as was the case for one George Washington (GW) University medical student.

The Lento Law Firm Education Law Team works with students who are dealing with university disciplinary processes. When a final decision isn't in a student's favor, we can also look at other options. If you've been dismissed from a university, call our team at 888-535-3686 or let us know about your case through our online form.

Fighting a Dismissal

When a medical school tells you the decision to dismiss you is final, you're left with little recourse. But that didn't stop a GW University medical student, who filed a lawsuit against the school. Her complaint was that the school didn't interview any of the witnesses before making the decision.

The dismissed student sought $2 million in damages for lost tuition and the delay in her career. She was only days away from graduating with a medical degree when she was dismissed. Ultimately, she lost the case due to insufficient evidence, but the lawsuit shows that even though university decisions are final, there is another route for dismissed students.

How Medical School Dismissals Work

In the case of the GW medical school student's dismissal, academic performance was at play. A medical school can dismiss a student for any number of school policy violations. Reasons can include unprofessional behavior, and failure to progress academically.

If your school catches wind of a perceived violation, the first step will typically be to launch an investigation. When the school decides disciplinary action is merited, you'll get an oral or written notice letting you know, along with the next steps. In many cases, this is a hearing where you'll be allowed to state your case. If the board finds that dismissal is warranted, you'll have the right to an appeal, but the decision based on that appeal is usually final.

How an Attorney Can Help

While legal action is an option, it's important to do everything you can to avoid dismissal. That's where an attorney is essential. The Lento Law Firm Education Law Team can take a look at your case and help you prepare to face the board. While an attorney isn't always allowed to attend the hearing with you, our team can help you come up with talking points that will give you the best chance.

From first notice to appeal, the Lento Law Firm Education Law Firm has you covered. If the appeal is unsuccessful, we can also help you explore litigation options. Our team has experience with school dismissal lawsuits and can help you determine whether it's the right option for you.

Disciplinary action can be stressful, especially if you're facing possible dismissal from medical school. The Lento Law Firm Education Law Team can help you sort through the allegations and craft the best case to present to the board. To learn more about how we can help you, call 888-535-3686. You can also provide details of your case using our online form.