What Are My Rights At A University Conduct Board Hearing?

The Board, composed of students and faculty members, hears cases of alleged misconduct and determines which sanctions are appropriate if a violation is found. If you are required to appear before the Judicial Board you are entitled to certain rights although these rights are more limited than those guaranteed in the criminal justice system:

1. Closed Hearing. Judicial Board hearings are closed to the public in order to comply with the requirements of the Federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act.

2. Confidential Files. Disciplinary files are confidential and may not be released without the written permission of the individual student or as otherwise authorized or required by law.

3. Right to Legal Counsel. A student appearing before the Judicial Board has a right to have an attorney present at all times. However the right to an attorney is not the same as in a court of law. The student must speak on her own behalf and the legal counsel may not speak at the hearings but may advise the student during any proceeding.

4. Due Process. Students are entitled to timely notice of the charges against them and of the time and place of all hearings. Students have the right to call witnesses and to ask questions during a hearing. Students have the right to remain silent during the hearing and do not have to answer questions asked by the board members.

5. Appeal. A student that has been found to be in violation of the Student Code of Conduct has the right to appeal the decision of the Conduct Board to the Appeals Board. The Student Code of Conduct outlines the steps required to appeal.