Many of the students at higher education institutions work laboriously to keep their grades up and graduate with a high-grade point average to impress future employers. Students who are serious about their educational career spend an extensive amount of time studying for exams and doing homework. So it's only fair that in their spare time, they get to play as hard as they work. Attending parties is a part of the college experience at many institutions. The last thing that is on the mind of students when they're having fun is noise violations.
Cities and colleges enforce guidelines that prohibit students from causing any loud noise that disturbs the comfort, health, peace or safety of the people in proximity. Here is a series of guidelines that are commonly enforced on college and university campuses by the city and higher education institutions:
- Noise and other entertainment at parties at non-academic gatherings are to be restricted to college non-business hours (typically between 5 p.m. and 1 a.m.). Exceptions must be cleared through the dean's office.
- Musical instruments, radios, televisions and other electronic devices should be played at a level acceptable to individuals within the same dorm and neighboring students.
- Political expression events (such as rallies, protests, drumming, speeches etc.) cannot disrupt the educational processes of the college or university.
- Music should be inaudible on weekends from buildings after midnight.
Please note that this is a general list of guidelines and that they may vary from school to school. But the objective of these rules are the same. Students are required to create minimal disturbances for those around them.
How Can Noise Violations Affect My Standing as a Student of the College?
When a student is accused of violating a noise violation, they could potentially face repercussions from the college or university he or she attends. More often than not, higher education institutions collaborate with local law enforcement to bring criminal charges against students. And in the event that a student has been found responsible for violating a noise ordinance, he or she will be threatened with disciplinary actions by the school and possible repercussions from the city. A first offense will likely not lead to harsh disciplinary actions, however, subsequent noise ordinances could lead to a suspension or expulsion from the school. In addition to the repercussions that the school would carry out, the city may also have consequences of its own. This is why it's important to have the help of an attorney who can aid students in weighing their options and keeping ordinances off of their record.
Nationwide Student Defense Attorney
If you or your student has been pinned with a noise complaint, it's important that you consult with an attorney that can help students weigh their options. In some cities, students are granted the opportunity to take a noise abatement class to clear their record. Attorney Joseph D. Lento is dedicated to protecting your rights and preserving your educational future - contact him today at 888-535-3686.
