Misconduct allegations at the University of Connecticut (UConn) carry significant consequences for students. As a large public university with a diverse population, UConn must address issues ranging from academic dishonesty to behavioral misconduct, as well as Title IX regulations. Despite the procedures used to adjudicate allegations, those accused don't always get the fairness they deserve. Even a first-time violation or unsubstantiated allegations can lead to the end of an academic career.
Even though mounting a defense may seem intimidating, students can retain the counsel and guidance they need to protect their graduation goals. The Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team is ready to begin your defense against misconduct allegations. Our team has the resources you need to protect your academic and professional future. Call us at 888-535-3686 now or visit our confidential consultation form, and we will reach out to you.
How Does UConn Define Misconduct?
UConn's Code of Conduct isn't limited to behavior or activities just on or about its campus. The university can apply its code to students whose misconduct has a "direct and distinct adverse impact" on its community or the pursuit of its objectives, regardless of where it occurs. Moreover, students must follow the code throughout enrollment, from admission through the actual awarding of a degree.
The university dedicates a large portion of its conduct code to listing prohibited behaviors that constitute violations. Although the list is extensive, it's not exhaustive or inclusive of all that can garner discipline at UConn:
- Disruptive behavior or causing undue interference with university activities
- Harming behaviors, such as true threats of or actual physical assault or abuse, including harassment
- Retaliation against any university community member for raising a good faith concern or issue
- Unauthorized or unapproved purchases with university funds or Student Trustee Organization funds
- Use or possession of legal medication outside the parameters of the medical authorization
- Assisting another person in the commission or attempted commission of a conduct violation
- Public consumption of alcohol, regardless of age
- Abuse of the university student conduct system, such as misrepresentation, failure to comply with official orders, and attempting to influence or intimidate participants
- The setting of or participation in unauthorized fires and improper possession, use, removal, or disabling of fire safety equipment
- Uncooperative behavior, including failure to comply with the directions of university officials or law enforcement officers
The Director of Community Standards (DCS) manages misconduct allegations. Following a short review period, DCS notifies the accused (respondent) of the pending investigation and schedules an administrative conference.
Investigations and Administrative Conferences
DCS appoints a Student Conduct Officer (SCO) to investigate the alleged incident. The accuser (complainant) and respondent provide information to the SCO during an in-person meeting. However, the complainant may submit a written record. Upon completion of the investigation, the SCO decides whether a violation occurred using the preponderance of the evidence standard.
During the administrative hearing, the SCO may offer the respondent the option to enter into an administrative agreement. These work as informal resolutions where the respondent agrees to accept responsibility, and the SCO renders sanctions. Critically, if students enter into an administrative agreement, they waive any right to appeal. If either party rejects the agreement, the matter moves to an administrative hearing.
Administrative Hearing Process
DCS schedules an administrative hearing within fifteen business days of the investigation report. During proceedings, the respondent and complainant have the right to a "support person," also known as an advisor. An advisor cannot represent a student to the hearing body, but they may coach them on how to respond.
The hearing body reviews the SCO's final investigation report. It questions each party, including witnesses. The hearing body may also accept or reject the investigating officer's findings in whole or in part. During deliberation, the hearing body uses the preponderance of the evidence standard to render a determination on the matter.
UConn Misconduct Sanctions and Appeals
When students are found responsible for the allegations, the hearing body will advise them of punishment in writing within five business days. Officials will review the student's disciplinary history and hear impact statements from each party and the SCO to impose the appropriate sanctions. Additionally, UConn allows respondents and companies to submit an impact statement to influence the hearing body's decision.
UConn levies punishment on a case-by-case basis and may combine various disciplinary provisions, such as:
- Written warnings
- Losses of privileges or housing assignments
- Probation with educational or administrative requirements
- Suspension with mandatory reapplication for readmission
- Expulsion and a permanent ban from UConn and all university-related activities
Fortunately, the hearing body's decision may be appealed by the student to the school's Dean. Requests must be made in writing within five business days of the student's receipt of the written decision. The sole grounds for appeal are the following:
- Substantial errors in the hearing procedures
- New information material to the matter unknown at the time of the hearing
- Misinterpretation of information presented at the hearing
Students are notified of the decision within five business days of receipt of the appeal. The appellate body may uphold the decision, reverse it, modify sanctions, or remand the matter back to the hearing body. The appellate body's decision is final and not subject to further review.
UConn Students Need the Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team
Students may believe that they can manage misconduct allegations on their own. Yet even a false accusation or minor infraction deserves professional assistance. A single mistake during the disciplinary process can leave UConn students vulnerable to harsh punishment that disrupts their graduation goals.
The Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team stands prepared to launch a robust defense for UConn students facing misconduct allegations. Our team leverages our extensive experience in student discipline matters to become your trusted advisor throughout the student conduct process. We will coach you on how to respond to DCS procedures and are dedicated to the most beneficial outcome. Call the Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team at 888-535-3686 now or visit our confidential online consultation form, and we will contact you.
