When a college or university student faces criminal charges, or disciplinary charges from their school, they need a strong legal defense to keep their rights protected. Most schools have a code of conduct that students are expected to follow. Violations of state criminal law typically count as violations of this code, as do many other non-criminal offenses listed by the school’s code itself.
If you face disciplinary action by your school, or are a student facing a criminal charge, you need a skilled defense attorney at your side. An experienced Manhattan student defense lawyer could represent you in court and in front of a school disciplinary hearing.
Charges of student misconduct can follow you through your academic career and far beyond. While academic misconduct rarely rises to the level of a state crime, it is still incredibly serious and deserves a well-prepared legal defense.
Different types of academic misconduct allegations include, but are not limited to:
Universities and colleges are very sensitive to cheating and plagiarism. This sensitivity often results in overly harsh sanctions or even situations where the allegations against a student are false. A knowledgeable local attorney could develop a strong defense unique to the student’s case.
Title IX offices on school campuses are in charge of enforcing federal law that forbids sexual discrimination. When a student faces allegations of sexual discrimination at school, the school’s Title IX office will become involved. Sexual discrimination includes mistreatment based on gender identity, gender, sexual orientation, and more.
In addition to discrimination, this also includes sex crimes, such as sexual assault, rape, or prostitution charges. Many of these offenses are also state crimes, and criminal prosecution and Title IX disciplinary action may occur at the same time. A qualified student defense attorney in Manhattan could represent a defendant on both fronts.
When a student faces accusations of a crime, their entire future at risk. Not only will the student face penalties in state court that could include prison time and fines, they could also face penalties through their school’s honor code or Title IX office. Drug and alcohol related offenses tend to be some of the most common students face, but other common offenses may also apply.
Common criminal offenses students often face include:
Of course, a student could face any criminal offense, depending on the facts of the case. Most schools have in their honor codes provisions which provide for possible suspension, expulsion, or other penalties if a student commits a crime, even when the crime occurs off campus.
If you have been accused of academic misconduct or a criminal offense as a student, you have the right to legal counsel. Students who need help in court or with their schools disciplinary committees deserve legal representation every step of the way.
A Manhattan student defense lawyer could review the circumstances of your case and develop a strong defense against these allegations. Contact us today to learn more.
