Student Frequently asked questions
Below are some of the more common questions asked by students about the hearing process. If your question isn't answered below feel free to contact us at 862-3377.
I’ve been documented for a Conduct Violation. What happens next?
It depends on the seriousness of the violation. If it is something less serious like noise, then it may be resolved informally without going to a conduct hearing. More serious violations like hosting an alcohol gathering or drug related charges would need to be resolved in a formal conduct hearing. Having prior misconduct can also increase the seriousness of a situation.
What should I except in a Conduct Hearing?
The hearing is an administrative process – it’s not like a court of law. All of the participants sit around a table and a hearing officer (or in some cases a three-person Hearing Board) will ask questions and allow participants to explain things from their perspective. Typically the participants in a hearing include: The Hearing Office/Hearing Board, The complainant, the respondent(s), a student advisor, and any witnesses.
I’ve been told my case needs to go to a hearing. What are my options?
There are two types of conduct hearings: Responsibility Hearings & Sanction Hearings.
A Responsibility Hearing takes place to determine whether a student is responsible for violating University Code of Conduct charges. If you disagree with the complainant’s account of what happened or what you are being charged with, then it would be in your best interest to request a responsibility hearing. If you are found responsible for any charges in the responsibility hearing, the hearing officer will then decide the appropriate sanctions.
A Sanction Hearing takes place if you and the Complainant are in agreement about the details of the incident and violations but disagree on the proposed sanctions.
Who makes the decision in my conduct hearing?
In most cases a hearing officer makes the decisions. A hearing officer is a staff or faculty member who volunteers in the conduct office.
In more serious cases a student has the right to request a three person board to determine whether they are responsible for the conduct charges. The board consists of two faculty/staff volunteers and a student volunteer.
What should I do to prepare for my conduct hearing?
Here are some suggestions for preparing for your hearing
For Responsibility Hearings:- - Get in touch with your student advisor the day you receive their contact information.
- Prepare a statement outlining why you think you shouldn’t be found responsible for charges (for a responsibility hearing).
- Prepare questions you want to ask the complainant about the incident report and what he/she is presenting.
- Be prepared to recommend sanctions to the hearing officer in case you are found responsible for any of the charges.
For Sanction Hearings:
- Get in touch with your student advisor the day you receive their contact information.
- Prepare a statement outlining the sanctions you would like to recommend as well as why you think they are most appropriate.
- Prepare a list of possible questions for the complainant on the sanctions he/she is likely presenting.
Who should I contact if I have further questions?
If you have been assigned a student advisor, get in touch with that person as soon as possible. If you have further questions you can contact the Office of Conduct and Mediation at 862-3377.