University Disciplinary Issues, Misconduct, and Investigations

If your university is initiating disciplinary proceedings against you, it’s important to get support from experts who understand the complexities of the process. At Slater Heelis, we have extensive experience helping clients in these situations. Our team of solicitors can help you prepare for hearings and meetings with your university, even if legal representation isn’t permitted.

We know that this can be a daunting prospect so our lawyers can help you structure your responses and prepare written submissions on your behalf to ensure your case is presented as effectively as possible.

Disciplinary proceedings can be initiated for various reasons, from criminal allegations to academic misconduct. It’s important to prepare properly for each stage of the process, as procedures can vary between institutions. We can provide guidance and written submissions throughout the proceedings, and our criminal defence solicitors can advise you on potential consequences of a criminal investigation that may be running in parallel.

With our team of expert solicitors – and their fantastic track record – you can have confidence that you’re getting the help and support you need to navigate university disciplinary issues, misconduct, and investigations. Get in touch with our team today to get started.

Read some of our recent case studies:

(i) Mr M was informed, one month before graduation, that he was unable to obtain his degree. This was due to the fact he was still subject to misconduct proceedings/an investigation following an altercation that took place, off campus, on a night out 1.5 years prior. As there was an ongoing criminal investigation the University could not conclude their own. Hannah Costley drafted written representations addressing the University’s guidance and regulations to persuade them to exercise discretion in Mr M’s case and waive the principle that prevents students from graduation if they’re still subject to an investigation. This was successful and Mr M can now graduate.

(ii) Mr R instructed Hannah Costley to help him prepare for a University investigation following an allegation of misconduct. Following a referral to a University Disciplinary Panel (UDP) Hannah instructed Michelle Brown from Deans Court Chambers to represent him at the UDP hearing. Mr R was found, on the balance of probabilities, to have engaged in only one of the two alleged counts of misconduct and he was given a final written warning and avoided expulsion. Due to this finding, Mr R was referred to his third University Fitness to Practice. Hannah Costley instructed Rosalind Scott-Bell from Deans Court Chambers, and together they were able to persuade the panel that Mr R was not impaired, and he has been allowed to graduate and continue with GMC registration. This hearing took place 1 month before graduation, after 6 years of studies. In most cases, a third fitness to practice, after having received two previous final warnings, would have led to dismissal. Hannah and Ms Scott-Bell were able to show the panel the Mr R had insight and dedication to the profession.

(iii) Mr R provided the following review: “2 years ago my life was turned upside down when an accusation from out the blue came to light which put my future career as a doctor in jeopardy. Due to the seriousness of the situation, we went out in search of someone who would be able to support and defend me in this battle. My sister found Hannah online. Since then we have worked together in this long fought battle navigating through interviews, appeals and hearings in order to keep my dream of practicing alive. Despite having some setbacks along the way, Hannah has provided me with excellent advice, worked with me each and every step of the way, helping me prepare documents, references and prepare for big hearing days. She also provided me with access to excellent barristers who represented me during the course of this case. I would highly recommend Hannah for any kind of legal work, as she is very honest, personable and great person to work with. Communication has been really good and i really appreciate all the support she has given throughout this journey. Due to our work together i am now one step closer to fulfilling a lifelong dream of mine.”