More than 20,000 students attend Georgia Southern University (GSU) in the city of Statesboro, Georgia every year to pursue their academic dreams. As one of the oldest and largest centers of higher education in the southern half of Georgia, GSU is widely regarded to be among the top colleges in The Peach State and has garnered a prestigious following. Due to its storied history and long list of successful alumni, school administrators are particularly vigilant in protecting its public image – particularly in regards to the conduct of its students. Unfortunately, like numerous other universities throughout the nation, the school has resorted to taking more extreme stances concerning alleged violations of its Student Code of Conduct, which includes students being arrested on criminal charges.
If you or your child has been arrested while attending Georgia Southern University, you could face the following administrative and criminal consequences:
- Jail time
- Exorbitant fines
- Loss of financial aid
- Denial of student loans
- Loss of grants
- Academic probation
- Disqualification from extracurricular activities
- Permanent dismissal
How Do College Disciplinary Hearings Work?
While being arrested is a serious matter in any scenario, college students who are charged with a crime can face added penalties from school administrators, jeopardizing their academic careers. These penalties will typically be determined during a disciplinary hearing with a university panel. Unlike criminal trials where the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty, disciplinary panels will often unfairly assume that a student has broken the rules of the university and take punitive actions to deter others from similar conduct. For this reason, if you have been accused of a crime, it is imperative you retain the services of a knowledgeable attorney to ensure your rights are guarded.
An attorney can help you prepare for this hearing and handle the following on your behalf:
- Examining the wording of your school’s honor code
- Calling and questioning witnesses to your alleged violation
- Negotiating for lessened penalties
- Arranging for a confidential withdrawal
Facing Charges? Contact The Schneider Law Firm
As skilled Savannah criminal defense attorneys with extensive experience working with college and university students, our aggressive team of advocates can contest the evidence against you and tenaciously fight to protect you against both administrative and criminal penalties. Backed by numerous 5-star client testimonials and a lengthy history of success, our team has what it takes to guard your academic career and freedom.
Do not let an unfair disciplinary system strip you of your right to an education. Call (912) 385-0854 or contact our office online today to discuss your legal options.
