Playful pranks, often intended as harmless fun activities for students, are meant to foster camaraderie or even bonding among the participants. However, these pranks can sometimes “cross a line,” putting the prankster at risk of facing disciplinary actions and possible suspension or expulsion from school.

While there are various reasons why a prank may be frowned upon by your school or university, you shouldn't face suspension or dismissal for something meant to be a good ol' fun activity. Unfortunately, without legal help or support, students whose pranks are deemed excessive, harmful, or injurious may have to deal with disciplinary fallouts.

If you're facing disciplinary action due to your pranking activities, our Student Defense Team at the Lento Law Firm can help. Call 888-535-3686 or fill out this form to discuss your case.

Pranking Activities That May Result in Harsh Consequences

Most pranks are not intended to be harmful. In many instances, participating students are unaware of the consequences of their actions or how dangerous those pranks may be in the end.

Regardless of the intent, pranks can end up leading to disciplinary actions. Some examples of these are:

• Property damage-related issues include vandalism, graffiti painting, or defacing of public or private properties.
• Bullying and/or threatening activities. Examples include physical and/or verbal intimidation, abuse, or other activities intended to demean or disparage the recipient or victim.
• Spiking foods and drinks often involve the addition of alcohol, illicit drugs, or non-prescription medications to drinks and foods.
• Derogatory actions that may lead to public humiliation. An example is pantsing, which may expose the victim's genitals in public when the person's pants, trousers, skirt, or shorts are yanked down without their permission.

There are many examples of potentially harmful pranking activities. Remember that pranks leading to disciplinary actions are often serious and typically violate established student codes of conduct. Depending on the school or college's rules and regulations, the consequences of these misconduct violations can be severe.

Steps to Take if You've Been Accused of Pranking

If you pranked someone and they filed a complaint against you, it's important to take the right steps:

• Understand the nature of the complaint
• Seek clarifications where necessary or possible
• Talk to an experienced Lento Law Firm attorney about your case
• Follow all recommended legal advice

The dangerous thing about pranks is that they can quickly transform into harassment, bullying, or abuse cases. This is why you should never assume you can “tell your side of the story” and hope the disciplinary board will understand.

Contact Experienced Student Defense Lawyer

A little “harmless fun” can change the course of your life if you're suspended or expelled from school. Don't let a harmless prank ruin your life and destroy your future. Let the Student Defense Team at the Lento Law Firm help you today.

Call 888-535-3686 or fill out this form to talk to our attorneys.