Many colleges and universities offer programs in entrepreneurship and encourage students to use their degrees to help them start and run new businesses. The encouragement, however, doesn't always extend to running a business on campus, and student entrepreneurs need to be aware of any restrictions their school may have on doing so. If you've been accused of misconduct by your college because of your on-campus entrepreneurial activities, contact the Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team for help. We can be reached at 888.535.3686 or through our contact link, and our experienced student defense attorneys are ready to help you defend yourself in any school disciplinary situation.  

On-Campus Businesses Are Usually Subject to School Regulations 

Some colleges and universities have rules that govern student-run businesses operating on campus. Schools may require students to register their businesses with the school before they start operating, as well as from time to time thereafter. The University of Dayton, for example, requires students to file an “Intent to Start Student Run Business Form” at least 20 days before beginning operations, and if the business achieves more than $5000, it must file an “Intent to Continue Student-Run Business Form,” secure “formal approval” from up to 11 different school departments, incorporate, secure insurance, have a “business mentor,” and “produce an annual report.”   

Other schools may not have such detailed policies in place to cover student-operated businesses but may not allow on-campus entrepreneurial activities unless the school specifically allows them.   Binghamton University requires advance approval for “the establishment on campus of any business activity.” Other schools, such as the University of Michigan, may actively offer help to students who are looking to start a business while in school.  

Illegal On-Campus Businesses Can Result in School Misconduct Charges 

Aside from how your school regulates student-run on-campus businesses, operating any on-campus business – even an approved one – in a way that violates federal, state, or local law can result in disciplinary charges being filed against the students who are responsible. This can result from any number of different types of on-campus illegal businesses, including:  

• Selling illegal drugs  
• Providing unlicensed babysitting or child care services 
• Selling merchandise that displays school trademarks without a license 
• Preparing and selling food in violation of local health code requirements 
• Engaging in any online business that violates any state or federal law 
• Using school facilities or resources without permission 

Every school has its own code of conduct, student honor code, or student handbook that gives the school the right to discipline students who violate school rules and regulations. Operating an on-campus business that engages in illegal activity (even if the illegality seems relatively minor) gives the school a chance to take disciplinary action against you.  

The Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team Can Help 

School disciplinary proceedings may appear to be fair on paper, but in most cases the school will hold most of the power and will have a tremendous amount of discretion when it comes to disciplining students. That's why you need the help of an experienced advocate who understands the school disciplinary system and can help you protect your rights in a disciplinary proceeding. The Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team has helped students all over the US protect their rights when they were accused of misconduct by their schools. Our attorneys will help you understand the allegations against you and will fight to defend your rights throughout the disciplinary process.  

Don't try to defend yourself when your school brings disciplinary proceedings against you – call the Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team at 888.535.3686 or use our contact form to learn how retaining one of our experienced student defense attorneys can help you protect your college career and your future.