Right to a Support Person

Any student involved (complainant or respondent) in the conduct process will have the right to be accompanied by an individual of their choice, excluding an attorney or other legal representation. The student must provide the name of this individual to the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards at least 24 hours preceding the hearing. The primary purpose of such an individual is for emotional and moral support. At no time may the accompanying individual participate directly in the hearing; he/she may only consult with the student.

Though the student conduct process does not typically allow a student to be accompanied by an attorney during the process, the University will allow such advisement if criminal charges are pending concurrent to the University proceedings. Proof of such charges must be presented to the Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards at least 24 hours preceding the scheduled hearing. During such time, the attorney may only advise his/her client and may not speak during the proceedings or serve as an active participant in the process.

The Office of Student Conduct and Community Standards has the right and authority to excuse an accompanying individual or attorney should his/her behavior be deemed inappropriate during the process.