In July 2023, Northwestern University came under fire for allegations of hazing, bullying, and harassment in the athletics department. Supposedly, the hazing occurred on the football team, where upperclassmen forced their younger teammates to suffer sexualized and degrading rituals. The scandals were widely publicized when they broke, making hazing experts believe that there might be a massive shift in how the public views hazing, and how institutions are expected to respond to it.

While no one should be forced to partake in hazing that is genuinely abusive, calling for institutions to harshly respond to any allegation could cause more negative consequences than necessary. If you are accused of hazing, the only way to ensure the best possible outcome for your case is to work with an experienced Student Defense Team.

Northwestern University Hazing Prevention Policy

College hazing is not a new thing. In fact, most Greek organizations on campus are known for putting pledges through different experiences before they decide if they can join the organization. Though, at Northwestern University, students are expected to abide by a strict hazing policy. Hazing includes:

• Physical abuse inflicted on another person.
• Inflicting strenuous physical activity on another person.
• Forcing another person into sleep deprivation, extreme fatigue, or interfering with their scholastic activities.
• Requiring a person to expose themselves to severe or inclement weather for a prolonged period.
• Causing, encouraging, or expecting another person to experience sexual violations or activities.

If someone experiences – or witnesses – hazing, they are supposed to make a good-faith report of the incident. Failing to make a good-faith report of the incident could force the university to initiate disciplinary action against you, as well as the other individuals involved.

This means that even if you are out of town during an incident of hazing but hear about it through the grapevine and don't report it to the Dean of Students' Office, the Dean of Students can punish you. Furthermore, because of the online system for reporting that Northwestern employs, it is incredibly easy for people to make false claims of hazing.

That is not justice; it is a violation of your due process rights.

How the Lento Law Firm Can Help

When you are accused of hazing, you must mount a strategic defense. This includes gathering evidence and witness testimony to support your argument, as well as fully preparing to answer questions from the university. Any punishment from a disciplinary hearing will affect your entire life. Not only could it inhibit you from applying for graduate school, but it could also prevent you from pursuing the career you've been dreaming of having.

The Lento Law Firm Student Defense Team knows how overwhelming defending yourself can be. This is why they work tirelessly to negotiate your position with the school before, during, and after your disciplinary hearing. You shouldn't be forced to endure the disciplinary process without cause. Call 888-535-3686 today or schedule a consultation online.