Hearings
Typically, students may choose both their hearing type and hearing body. The Student Conduct Code provides for two distinct types of hearings, informal and formal.
Informal Hearings
Informal hearings are best suited for cases involving few questions of fact. They can typically be scheduled quickly, at the convenience of both the charged student and the hearing body. In an informal hearing, the University does not automatically call witnesses to support the charges. However, the charged student may call witnesses and present evidence. The hearing body may gather any additional information needed, including calling witnesses. If additional information is needed, the charged student will be notified.
Formal Hearings
Formal hearings are most appropriate for cases involving more serious alleged violations of the Student Conduct Code. Formal hearings require the hearing body to call appropriate witnesses to provide information relevant to the charges. Formal hearings are held no sooner than five class days after notice is given to the charged student. The hearings are recorded and this recording serves as the official record of the proceedings.
The following order of presentation is recommended for use in formal hearings. The hearing body may change the order if necessary.
- Presentation of formal charges.
- Opening statement by the University, followed by the opening statement of the charged student.
- Presentation of evidence and witnesses by the University, followed by questioning of those witnesses by the hearing body and the charged student. Witnesses are then dismissed.
- Presentation of evidence and witnesses by the charged student, followed by questioning of those witnesses by the charged student and the hearing body. Witnesses are then dismissed.
- Questions directed to the charged student by the hearing body.
- Closing statement by the University, followed by the closing statement of the charged student.
Organizational Hearings
An organization charged with an alleged violation of the Student Conduct Code will be represented in the conduct process by the president of the organization. Information regarding the alleged charges will be communicated to the president. The Greek Judicial Board will serve as the hearing body for Greek organizations. The Student Judicial Board will serve as the hearing body for all other student organizations. All hearings for student organizations will be public. |
