Many people who are fortunate enough to attend college often reminisce about how it is the best time of their lives. College is a time for many to transition from a teenager into a young adult. It is a time where many people have the freedom to find themselves and learn about life. Unfortunately, it is also when many people push the envelope with the law and might find themselves in trouble. In this article, we will discuss how a college student who gets in trouble with the law off campus may face disciplinary action on campus.
What Is The Role Of University Disciplinary Boards?
A university or college has an incentive to ensure that its students are living to a certain standard in which the school wishes to have associated with it. The role of university disciplinary boards is to ensure that campuses are a safe environment for students, professors, and professional staff. When a student is arrested or is part of a criminal investigation, and the college is informed, then the college may initiate disciplinary action against the student. It does not matter whether the alleged crime occurred on or off campus. If the student is an enrolled student on the campus, the university disciplinary board may exercise jurisdiction on the case.
Is The University Disciplinary Hearing in Place Of Criminal Prosecution?
The university disciplinary hearing usually occurs independently of criminal prosecution. A student may be found innocent in a criminal allegation yet still face disciplinary action with the university.
Common Offenses
Any crime, especially those rising to a felony, may cause a student to face discipline by the university. However, the most common offenses are as follows:
- Underage drinking
- Vandalism
- Disorderly conduct
- Assault and battery
- Sexual assault
- Drug abuse
- Driving while under the influence
- Using or owning a fake ID
- Stealing
Is Disciplinary Hearing Universal?
There is no uniform code of discipline in the State of Florida. A private college or university may have a different standard or punishment than a public university or college. Additionally, within the State University System, the punishments are different school-to-school. The discipline handed out at the Florida State University might differ from the punishment handed out at the University of South Florida for the same offense. Even within the same college or university itself, the punishment is different for the same offense depending on the individuals serving on the disciplinary board.
In Conclusion
If you are a college student charged with a crime or criminal investigation, even if it occurred off campus, you should seek legal counsel. A university or college disciplinary hearing is a serious matter that may impact your educational career. The lawyers at Valrico Law Group will advise you on your rights in both the off-campus investigation and with the on-campus disciplinary board.
