Emory University Honor Code Violations: A Defense Attorney’s Perspective
Emory University, situated in the bustling city of Atlanta, Georgia, is a prestigious private university known for its excellent academic reputation. Despite its reputation, the intense competition at Emory can cause undue stress on students, leading them to make poor decisions. A violation of the Emory Honor Code is taken seriously, and it is crucial for students to know what to do if they are caught cheating, plagiarizing, or committing other academic misconduct violations. As a defense attorney specializing in university students, I can provide the necessary legal assistance for students in such situations, including Emory University students.
What is a Violation of the Emory Honor Code?
Emory University’s Honor Code defines academic misconduct as “any action that violates the integrity of the academic process and/or undermines the educational mission of the university.” Academic misconduct includes various categories of wrongdoing, including cheating, plagiarism, collaboration, forgery, and falsifying data or research results.
Cheating involves looking at another student’s exam or allowing another student to see your exam, accessing materials during a test using electronic devices, studying from past exams of professors, accessing a test bank, or having someone else take your quiz, exam, or complete an assignment.
Plagiarism involves not properly citing or quoting someone else’s work, creating fake citations, purchasing a paper online and submitting it, or using a website to assist in writing a paper.
Collaboration refers to working with other students when not allowed by a professor.
Other Issues include signing someone else into a class, forging signatures or information, turning in the same assignment or portion of a paper to two courses, or falsifying data or research results.
How will an Emory Student Know They Violated the Honor Code?
If a professor reports academic misconduct, the Honor Council will inform the student. The Honor Council will then schedule a meeting with the student to discuss the reported violation. During the meeting, the investigator will ask for the student’s side of the story, any supporting documents, evidence, and a statement. It is essential to make a strong presentation to the investigator as they have the power to dismiss the allegation. However, if the investigator does not dismiss the reported violation, then the case will be referred for a hearing.
What Happens at the Emory Honor Council Hearing?
The outcome of an Honor Council hearing depends on whether the student decides to accept responsibility for the violation or fight against the charge of academic misconduct. If a student accepts responsibility, they will be referred to an expedited hearing, where they simply acknowledge that they committed a violation.
On the other hand, if the student chooses to fight against the allegation, they will be referred for a full hearing. During the full hearing, the student must be prepared to ask and answer questions, present witnesses, and show evidence to the Honor Council that they did not commit a violation. While I cannot accompany the student to the hearing, I can work with them behind the scenes to prepare them for the hearing.
What Types of Sanctions Can an Emory Student Get if Found Guilty of an Honor Code Violation?
Sanctions are punishments given by a university for a violation of the Code of Conduct. At Emory, sanctions range from an F in the course to expulsion from the university. It is essential to note that a violation of the Honor Code can have severe consequences on a student’s academic career and future opportunities.
How Do I Appeal a Disciplinary Sanction from the Emory Honor Council?
If a student receives a decision from the Honor Council, they have seven days to submit a written appeal. The Assistant Dean is also available to meet with students to discuss their options. It is crucial to have a skilled defense attorney to assist in navigating the appeals process and ensure the best chance of success.
Can You Help Me Fight My Academic Misconduct Violation at Emory?
Yes, as an experienced defense attorney, I assist students nationwide, including Emory University students, to successfully defend Code of Conduct and academic integrity violations. I use my specialized knowledge of the Code of Conduct process combined with nearly two decades of legal experience to give Emory students the best chance of a positive outcome.
At Spodek Law Group, our team understands the gravity of an academic misconduct violation and the potential consequences it may have on your academic career and future opportunities. As a reputable law firm, we have the experience and expertise necessary to handle even the most complex cases.
If you are an Emory University student facing an Honor Code violation or other academic misconduct charges, do not hesitate to reach out to our team at Spodek Law Group. We will provide you with the legal representation and support you need to successfully navigate the process and protect your rights. Contact Attorney Todd Spodek today to schedule a consultation.