Information for Attorneys/Advisors
The student conduct process promotes learning and student development by adjudicating alleged student misconduct; contributes to the educational mission and core values of the university community through adjudication of the Student Conduct Code; and assures standards of acceptable behavior that protects students’ health, safety, welfare, and property. Unlike the criminal justice system, the worst consequence a student may face from a campus student conduct process is not incarceration, but rather that they would no longer be able to attend the institution.
The student conduct process is not comparable to a court of law, criminal proceeding or civil proceeding and therefore the role of the attorney is also dissimilar. The role of the attorney/advisor is one of a friendly observer. This friendly observer is not an active participant and may not participate in the hearing. They can attend the hearing as a support to the student and can guide or advise the student on what questions to ask or answer during their university hearing.
Attorneys or advisers assisting students as they navigate the student conduct process are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the Student Conduct Code . This document describes in detail, the scope of the code of conduct, procedures, prohibited conduct, and possible sanctions.
For answers to Frequently Asked Questions, please click here.
For a breakdown of the differences between the criminal justice system and the student conduct process, please click here.