The Student Government Association (SGA) represents the interests of the student body on campus. The initiation of such an association by colleges and universities around the United States was intended to give students a voice while having a central body of governance to advocate for what is in the student's best interest, both academically and socially.

Like all other forms of government, the students in the SGA are supposed to adhere to a high level of ethical and professional standards. If a member of the SGA is accused of behavioral or academic misconduct and subsequently found responsible for the conduct, it could mean a more severe punishment. The severity of the sanction, of course, will depend on the school and the nature of the incident.

If you are accused of misconduct by your college or university, and you are a member of the SGA, the best thing you can do is reach out to the Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team for help.

SGA Code of Conduct

The severity of the disciplinary action will vary depending on the school you attend and the nature of the misconduct. For instance, if you are a student at Texas Tech University and a member of the SGA, you are required to follow the SGA's Code of Ethics and Conduct. This set of rules outlines your responsibilities as an SGA official, what you are allowed to do, and what behavior you must refrain from conducting. So, if an SGA official is accused of discrimination or harassment, they could be suspended or expelled – even if this is their first offense.

Similarly, if you are a student at the University of Central Florida UCF, you are expected to uphold the SGA Constitution and Statutes. These documents outline how each branch of the SGA should conduct themselves. If a member of the SGA at UCF is accused and found responsible for sexual misconduct, they may be dismissed from the victim's classes (if they shared classes), removed from the SGA, suspended, or expelled from the university altogether.

How the Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team Can Help

Being accused of violating your university's code of conduct policy can have long-lasting effects on the rest of your life. For example, if you are suspended or expelled and then try to continue your education at another college or university or hope to pursue graduate school or a particular career, you might have a difficult time gaining admission. Every school, and some employment positions, will ask about prior sanctions – the circumstances that gave rise to them and what the outcome was. You will be forced to discuss the incident over and over. This issue is compounded when you are in a position of power at the time of disciplinary action.

If you are accused of violating your school's code of conduct or academic integrity policy while sitting on the Student Government Association, the ramifications can be disastrous. You need a strong defense. The attorneys on the Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team understand how overwhelming these proceedings can be. They will work tirelessly to ensure the best possible outcome for your case. Call 888-535-3686 or schedule a consultation online today.