FAQ’s regarding the Judicial Process

• Q What does the Office of Judicial Affairs do?
• A Judicial Affairs assist students who are experiencing a crisis situation, provide educational programs regarding personal and campus safety issues and oversee discipline issues in regards to the Student Code of Conduct. We also take pride in being an advocate for student and student affairs.

• Q Do we tell yours parents if you get in trouble?
• A That depends greatly on the “trouble” in question. The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) permits an institution of higher education go disclose to parents or legal guardians the results of disciplinary hearings if the student is less than 21 years of age and has been found responsible for violating campus rules regarding the use of or possession of alcohol or a controlled substance. Parents or guardians of students under the age of 21 will be notified of all violations of University narcotic or other controlled substance policies and those alcohol violations that result in an assessment for chemical dependency, residence hall probation, or a more severe sanction; as allowed under FERPA regulations.

• Q What is a judicial hearing?
• A When a student has been charged with a violation of the code of conduct, the student has several options. They can plead responsible or not responsible of the alleged violation. If they plead not responsible, then a hearing will take place. The Judicial Officer or an Appointee will hear from all parties involved and then make a finding. If the student is found responsible, a sanction shall be determined.

• Q Do I need a lawyer for a hearing?
• A No. However, you do have the right to have any advisor assist you during the hearing process. The accused and the complainant are responsible for presenting his or her case; therefore the advisor is not permitted to participate directly in any hearing before the judicial body. The advisor is restricted to an advisory role. Judicial Officer or an Appointee will be present to help all parties involved with the process and policies.

• Q If I get in trouble with the local police will I get in trouble with the University?
• A Possibly. Police reports are passed along to the office of Judicial Programs from the police substation on campus. We will discuss each case on an individual basis.

• Q If I am found in violation of the Student Code of Conduct, how will this affect my academic record?
• A Each judicial record is on file for 5 to 7 years. However, other than suspension or expulsion, disciplinary sanctions shall not be made part of the student’s permanent academic record, but shall become part of the student’s confidential disciplinary record, which will be maintained in a specified area of Student Affairs and shall be subject to the restrictions of the Family Educational Right to Privacy Act (FERPA).

• Q Can you help me if I am being harassed?
• A Yes. We would like to help. Please make an appointment and we can discuss your options.

• Q If I tell you something, is it confidential?
• A Yes, with the exception that you intend to hurt yourself or someone else. We are here to help you and provide you with options. If you are having a difficult time, let us help you work through it.

• Q Where can I get more information about my rights and due process?
• A Information regarding the Student Code of Conduct is available on the web and in the TAMU-CC Student Handbook & Code of Conduct.