Thomas Jefferson University is a medical-focused University with several colleges within itself. The University itself has a unified Code of Conduct that lists the rights and responsibilities of students. There are several Standards of Conduct listed within the Code. Students who fail to adhere to these standards may be found responsible for misconduct. Misconduct will result in one of many forms of discipline from the University.
After receiving allegations of misconduct against a student, the University will launch an Investigation of Misconduct. University personnel will handle the investigation and attempt to gain insight into the situation and the facts of the matter.
Thomas Jefferson University Judicial System
The University's process for handling matters of misconduct is their Judicial System. The University will appoint a Judicial Board to handle each individual case. Each College will have a Hearing Board that is made up of one University administration member, 2 faculty members of the College, and 2 students enrolled in the College where the violation occurred. There will also be a non-voting Chair who presides over the hearing and directs the proceedings.
Hearings
The hearing process is initiated by the sending of written misconduct charges from the student's College Dean or Provost to the Judicial Board. The hearing will then take place within 15 business days of the Board receiving the charge. Students facing misconduct allegations will then be notified in writing of the date and time of their hearing. Hearings will proceed according to the preference of the Chair, and the Board. The Chair and the Board assigned to it has the authority to call in any witnesses or other individuals who may have pertinent information to the hearing. After the Board has heard the relevant information, they will come to a decision, and assign a disciplinary action if necessary.
Students charged with misconduct are welcome to the presence of an attorney at hearings. In fact, it is not only welcome but assumed, as students must submit a waiver of counsel to notify the board that they will not be accompanied by an attorney. Attorneys can offer the same skill and expertise they use in courtrooms every day to students who are facing hearings at the University. Counsel from an attorney will give students helpful insight into tactics used in evidence presentation and witness questioning.
Thomas Jefferson University Appeals
In the event of an unfavorable outcome, students have 10 business days to make an appeal to the Dean of the College of their attendance. Appeals must be made on the grounds of a lack of due process or new information to be considered.
If the initial appeal fails, students have another 15 business days to make an appeal to the President of the University. Presidential appeals are final. The grounds for Presidential appeal are arbitrary or capricious behavior, appropriateness of penalty, or a failure in due process.
If you or your student is facing disciplinary action from Thomas Jefferson University, contact LLF Law Firm today.
