Why Legal Representation Matters in University Hearings

All universities, whether public or private, have a student code of conduct. Schools that accept federal funding must also follow specific disciplinary regulations related to gender-based crimes and sexual harassment between students. College disciplinary cases in South Carolina are often linked to underlying criminal conduct, and the outcomes of these proceedings may be submitted to law enforcement.

You should retain an experienced defense lawyers from Brad C. Richardson, LLC, if you’re facing potential expulsion, sanctions, or Title IX proceedings at your university. If you’re being accused of breaching your college’s code of conduct, primarily based on conduct that occurred during spring break at Myrtle Beach, contact our experienced student defense team.

Types of College Disciplinary Cases

Some university disciplinary cases are purely internal, with expulsion as the maximum penalty, while others have more serious criminal implications. Experienced student defense attorneys might represent you during the following proceedings.

Academic Dishonesty

These charges typically involve allegations of plagiarism and related cheating offenses. Many colleges are using unreliable AI-detection software to accuse students of cheating. If you’ve been accused of academic dishonesty, primarily associated with AI use, contact an academic defense lawyer with experience handling these hearings.

Title IX Violations

Title IX is a federal law that most universities must comply with. It protects students from on-campus or student-on-student gender-based and sexual crimes, including rape, sexual assault, harassment, and discrimination. Title IX proceedings often arise after spring break in Myrtle Beach and may carry serious criminal consequences.

Code of Conduct Breaches

Most university disciplinary cases involve breaching the university’s code of student conduct. Common examples include participating in unapproved campus protests, drinking in dorm rooms, using recreational drugs on campus, or interfering with other students’ ability to learn.

Criminal Offenses

Major universities often have private security and police forces. Sometimes, these officers will handle reported criminal conduct internally before referring the case to outside law enforcement. Most criminal accusations automatically result in code of conduct hearings. You need an attorney with experience handling both the student disciplinary aspects of campus criminal offenses and any potential state or federal charges.

Potential Penalties Associated with College Crimes in Myrtle Beach

If you breached the student code of conduct, academic integrity standards, or Title IX, you might face the following penalties:

• Expulsion/Dismissal
• Removal from campus
• Scholarship loss
• Fines
• Academic probation
• NCAA sanctions
• Suspension
• Warnings
• Degree revocation
• Referral for criminal prosecution

Additionally, students might struggle to gain admission into another university and face potential civil and criminal penalties. Do not admit to any accusations, even if they’re true, without discussing potential defenses with a student rights attorney.

Myrtle Beach, S.C., College Disciplinary Defense Lawyers

Working with an experienced student defense attorney, such as Brad L. Richardson, may significantly reduce the severity of potential academic and criminal penalties. Our dedicated college disciplinary legal team can also help dismiss unfounded charges and protect you during criminal investigations. Call our Myrtle Beach student advocates today at (843) 488-4321 or connect with us online.