Academic conduct
I had some problems with an ex-boyfriend and the police were involved. He sent me an e-mail during all of this threatening that he would go to my school with evidence that I cheated if I followed through with the charges I have against him. I then got a letter from my school stating I was being charged with Academic misconduct and I had 10 days to reply so to be given a hearing. I sent them copies of police reports, restraining orders, etc. and maintained that I did not cheat. I was then contacted by phone by a university employee. He told me he could only tell me the university had evidence that I cheated, other than that they would not disclose any information. I was then told the hearing would be a telephone conference and I would be allowed to speak on my behalf but I was not allowed to ask any questions. I have the idea that my ex had sent some made up e-mails to them but what real evidence they had they would not show me. I was found guilty of cheating and given an F in the course. I was upset but I decided that it was not worth anymore battle and I would retake the course. I get a B. I then receive a second letter this week stating I resubmitted the same things that had already been plagiarized.
Do i need a lawyer
Re: Academic conduct
You probably should hire an attorney. While your attorney will likely be barred from any meaningful participation at the university hearing, the school will know that you are taking the matter seriously if you bring an attorney with you. Additionally, if you have to file suit afterwards, your attorney will be better informed and can better represent you in court if he or she has been involved since the early stages.
