Being accused of misconduct as a student at Arizona State University - SkySong can be a stressful experience. Depending on the nature of the allegations, a student may face penalties that could derail their academic career.
An attorney can help if you or your child has been accused of misconduct at Arizona State University - SkySong. It's simply important to hire an attorney who has experience handling cases like yours.
For example, at the Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team, although we do defend students accused of academic misconduct, we also appreciate that behavioral misconduct cases can involve unique factors.
We account for these factors when defending your rights. If you've been accused of any form of behavioral misconduct at Arizona State University - SkySong, learn more about what we can do for you by submitting your information through our online contact form or calling our offices at 888-535-3686 today.
Potential Behavioral Misconduct Charges at Arizona State University - SkySong
Behavioral misconduct can take many forms. The following are common examples of violations students may be accused of that could qualify as this form of misconduct:
- Title IX violations
- Other sexual misconduct violations, as the Student Code of Conduct at Arizona State University, expands on federal rules and prohibitions
- Hazing
- Fraternity/organization misconduct
- Bullying/cyberbullying
- Race-based discrimination or other such forms of discrimination
- Academic misconduct (i.e., cheating)
That's by no means a full list of the types of behavioral misconduct cases we handle. No matter what the specific charges are, if you're facing disciplinary proceedings because someone accused you of behavioral misconduct, our Student Defense Team at the Lento Law Firm is prepared to review your case, answer your questions, and protect your future.
Misconduct Cases at Arizona State University - SkySong: The Rights of Students in Disciplinary Proceedings
Per Arizona State University's own policies, students involved in disciplinary proceedings have certain rights. Specifically, a student has the right to:
- Receive notification of the alleged misconduct
- Be informed of the source of the allegations against them
- Learn the specific nature of the allegations
- Be informed of the penalties they may face due to the allegations
- Be represented by an advisor (who can be an attorney) during any disciplinary hearing
- Remain silent and do not make any statements regarding the allegations or disciplinary proceedings
- Be informed that any of the statements they make regarding these matters could be used against them during disciplinary proceedings
Those last two points are particularly important. A student who worked hard to get into Arizona State University - SkySong may be eager to “cooperate” with those investigating them. It's understandable to impulsively feel you should cooperate with your school when you're accused of misconduct.
However, because your statements can be used against you, you're better off staying silent. Our Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team will speak on your behalf and ensure you're cooperating to the degree that's appropriate.
What Does a Misconduct Case at Arizona State University - SkySong Involve?
The specific details of a case may influence disciplinary proceedings to some extent. That said, disciplinary procedures at Arizona State University typically involve the following steps:
- Beginning of an investigation: The Dean's office will launch an investigation upon receiving information from anyone indicating a student may have engaged in misconduct. When the nature of an accusation warrants doing so, the Dean's office will also notify the Office of Equity and Inclusion or the Title IX Coordinator of the matter. The Dean will also provide the parties involved with written information about supportive services available through the campus and community at this stage. Depending on various factors, the Dean may also suspend or otherwise restrict a student during an interim period, although a student can contest this.
- Investigation: A student accused of misconduct should receive notification if the Dean's office proceeds with an investigation. All other parties involved should also receive similar written notifications. An investigation can involve various steps and processes, such as attending meetings or hearings, all of which our attorneys will help a student navigate. A student accused of misconduct will also be given a chance to respond to the charges. We'll help you determine if this is wise.
- Determination: The Dean of Students will determine whether it's “more than likely” that a student engaged in prohibited misconduct upon the conclusion of an investigation. The Dean's office should provide a determination within five business days of an investigation ending. The written statement indicating the office's decision should explain the penalties/sanctions the office is imposing. However, a student can file a written request for a hearing to appeal the decision.
Cases can become complex at this stage. The Hearing Board will review a case and render a decision. The Senior Vice
President for Educational Outreach and Student Services must then affirm, deny, or accept the recommendations or modifications of the Hearing Board. Regardless, anyone dissatisfied with the outcome at this stage may submit a request for review or rehearing.
You don't need to face these proceedings alone. Our Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team is on hand to guide you through every step.
How Our Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team Helps Students Accused of Misconduct at Arizona State University - SkySong
We at the Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team understand the importance of accounting for every case's unique details and nuances when defending our clients. The specific ways we help you will depend on the details you provide us with during a case review. Generally, however, we help clients in your circumstances by:
- Handling all communications with the Dean's office
- Providing representation during hearings
- Citing mitigating factors that can influence a case's outcome
- Challenging the evidence against a student
- When applicable, gathering and presenting evidence of an alibi
- Assisting with appeals
- If necessary, negotiating deals to ensure the outcome of disciplinary proceedings is fair
What's important now is taking action early when you've been accused of misconduct at Arizona State University - SkySong. Get started today by calling our offices at 888-535-3686 or submitting your case information through our online form.
