Academic integrity is the foundation upon which all scholarly endeavors in Oregon colleges and universities rest. At the Spodek Law Group, we understand that every school has its own set of regulations concerning academic honesty and responsibility, but our mission is to help students navigate through the challenging disciplinary process should they be accused of academic misconduct.

If you are suspected of violating your institution’s academic integrity policy, you will be required to go through an investigation and/or hearing to determine if you are “responsible” for the alleged misconduct. Fortunately, if the school finds you responsible, you have the right to appeal, and we’re here to guide you through the appeals process.

What is an Academic Appeal?
An academic appeal is a compelling letter that contests the validity of the school’s adverse disciplinary decision. When you file an appeal, a panel of professionals will review the initial decision and your reason for why the decision was unwarranted. They will then conduct a hearing to determine if there is a valid reason to affirm your appeal and reverse or reform the decision.

When is it Appropriate to Appeal?
At Spodek Law Group, we understand that sometimes innocent students get accused of academic misconduct due to a misunderstanding or misjudgment. It is not uncommon for faulty plagiarism detection software, group projects gone wrong, or other factors to lead to an unwarranted accusation of academic misconduct. If you genuinely believe that you did not commit the misconduct you were accused of, then you should appeal.

Another reason to appeal is if you feel your sanction is too harsh. The severity of the penalty should be proportionate to the action you committed.

However, if you have admitted guilt in any capacity to the school, then you should not appeal. Appeals are only valid if there is an element of injustice involved, not if you’re unhappy with the determination.

The Appeals Process
Filing an appeal means writing a persuasive letter to your professor or faculty member’s dean explaining why you have been falsely accused. Our attorneys at Spodek Law Group can help you draft a compelling letter that is convincing enough for the panel to schedule a hearing.

Depending on the school, a panel of faculty members and staff will conduct the hearing. You should prepare to make a statement, present evidence, and answer questions posed by the panel. After hearing all the facts, the panel will deliberate and make a decision.

The Consequences of Academic Misconduct
Regrettably, a finding of responsibility for academic misconduct can derail an accused student’s academic and professional goals. In addition to academic and disciplinary sanctions, there may be long-term consequences, such as adverse impacts on internships, graduate school opportunities, and employment opportunities.

At Spodek Law Group, we understand the gravity of an academic misconduct finding of responsibility and the potential harm it can do to your future. Our attorney, Todd Spodek, has unparalleled experience passionately fighting for the futures of his clients at universities and colleges in Oregon and throughout the nation. He prioritizes his clients’ needs and well-being, and will do everything in his power to help you prevail in the appeals process.

Contact Spodek Law Group Today
If you’re facing disciplinary action for academic misconduct, contact Spodek Law Group today. We have a deep understanding of the law and the experience to handle your legal situation. Let us help you protect your academic and professional future. Call us at 888-981-6814 to schedule a consultation with Attorney Todd Spodek.

Reasons for Appealing

• You genuinely believe that you did not commit the misconduct you were accused of.
• Your sanction is too harsh.

Reasons Not to Appeal

• • You have admitted guilt in any capacity to the school.

The Appeals Process

Filing an appeal requires a persuasive letter to your professor or faculty member’s dean explaining why you have been falsely accused. At Spodek Law Group, we understand that writing such a letter can be challenging for some students. Therefore, our attorneys can help you draft a compelling letter that is convincing enough for the panel to schedule a hearing.

Depending on the school, a panel of faculty members and staff will conduct the hearing. You should prepare to make a statement, present evidence, and answer questions posed by the panel. After hearing all the facts, the panel will deliberate and make a decision.

The Consequences of Academic Misconduct

A finding of responsibility for academic misconduct can derail an accused student’s academic and professional goals. In addition to academic and disciplinary sanctions, there may be long-term consequences, such as adverse impacts on internships, graduate school opportunities, and employment opportunities.

At Spodek Law Group, we understand the gravity of an academic misconduct finding of responsibility and the potential harm it can do to your future. Our attorney, Todd Spodek, has unparalleled experience passionately fighting for the futures of his clients at universities and colleges in Oregon and throughout the nation. He prioritizes his clients’ needs and well-being and will do everything in his power to help you prevail in the appeals process.

Contact Spodek Law Group Today

If you’re facing disciplinary action for academic misconduct, contact Spodek Law Group today. Our deep understanding of the law and our experience will help you handle your legal situation. Let us help you protect your academic and professional future.

Call us at 888-981-6814 to schedule a consultation with Attorney Todd Spodek.

Reasons for Appealing	Reasons Not to Appeal
• You genuinely believe that you did not commit the misconduct you were accused of.	• You have admitted guilt in any capacity to the school.
• Your sanction is too harsh.