Which office normally handles student conduct matters?

Matters concerning student conduct (i.e., alleged violations of University Policies and/or campus regulations regarding the activity of students) are handled by the Office of the Dean of Students (some professional schools have their own discipline system). The Office of the Dean of Students is in 1206 Murphy Hall. The phone number is (310) 825-3871. Additional questions concerning student conduct can be answered by calling this number.

Why does one office handle all the conduct matters?

There are three main reasons for having discipline or student conduct matters handled by one office:

1. Consistency. It is important that these matters are handled carefully and in a consistent manner. For example a de-centralized system might be characterized by very different outcomes or sanctions in similar cases of misconduct.

2. Record-keeping. Having centralized records allows the University to monitor students who have violated policy. A de-centralized system would make it difficult to determine if students have committed repeat violations.

3. Due Process. All students are entitled to due process. The Dean's Office is very concerned that each student is treated fairly and that each student's rights are protected.

What is the jurisdiction of the University?

The University has jurisdiction over student conduct that occurs on University property, or in connection with official University functions whether on or off University property. Although the University will not routinely invoke its disciplinary processes over student conduct that occurs off campus, the University has discretion to exercise such jurisdiction (see the UCLA Student Conduct Code for more specific information regarding jurisdiction).

Who may make an allegation against a student?

Anyone may make an allegation against a student; however, allegations must be in writing and may not be anonymous.

What if someone makes a false allegation against a student?

Written allegations are evaluated by the Deans prior to contacting the accused student. Evaluation includes determining the credibility of the complainant. In addition, the evidence is evaluated to determine its value and relevance to the case. It is exceedingly rare for the Office to receive false or vindictive allegations of misconduct. In addition, it is a violation of University policy to submit false information to the Office in the hopes of getting another student in trouble.

Will I be notified if someone has made an allegation against me?

University policy, as found in the UCLA Student Conduct Code (available in print in the Office of the Dean of Students, states that students must receive written notice of alleged violations of University Policies and/or campus regulations. Notice is sent via email to the most recent email address on file with the University. Notice will include a statement about when and where the alleged violation occurred, and what allegedly happened. Letters of notice will also provide a time by which the accused student must contact the Office to schedule an appointment.

What do I do after receiving notice?

Contact the Office at (310) 825-3871 to schedule an appointment to meet with a Dean. Some students seek advice from the Office of Ombuds Services (located in the Strathmore Building - Room 105, 310/825-7627), or Student Legal Services (70 Dodd Hall, 310/825-9894). The accused student must contact the Office by the date indicated on the Letter of Notice.

What will happen when I meet the Dean?

First the Dean will verify that you have received proper notice and that you understand the allegation(s) being made against you. Next the Dean will make sure you understand University policy regarding your case. In all likelihood the Dean will then attempt to determine what happened. This is your chance to provide relevant information concerning the case.

Very often students admit to the allegation (or some portion of the allegation). The Dean must then determine an appropriate University response. That is done by asking a series of questions designed to help the Dean understand the mitigating and aggravating circumstances to the case. When the best course of action is determined, the Dean will explain the outcome of the case and the reasons for his or her decision.
Students should understand that these matters may take several meetings. Deans will carefully investigate the case and verify statements made during meetings with the parties involved.

What if I'm responsible for violating University policies and/or campus regulations?

If a student admits to violating University policies and/or campus regulations, or is found responsible in a hearing, he or she should expect to be sanctioned. Sanctions range from a Warning to Dismissal from the University of California. The Deans strive to impose sanctions that are appropriate given the violation. The list of sanctions is found in the UCLA Student Conduct Code, available in print in 1206 Murphy Hall.

What if I'm not responsible?

If a student is able to provide a plausible explanation for the circumstances that led to the allegation, and if there is evidence to support that claim, the matter will likely be dropped. However, if the student denies the allegation, and in the Dean's judgment, there is evidence indicating that the student is responsible, the Dean may refer the matter to a hearing before the Student Conduct Committee.

What are hearings like?

Hearings are conducted by the Student Conduct Committee or a Hearing Officer. The Committee is made up of student members, faculty members, and staff members. The hearing is formal, students are able to present witnesses and documents to support their case. Students may elect to have representation. Witnesses are subject to cross-examination. Upon hearing the evidence, the Committee must find by a preponderance of the evidence (more likely than not) that the student is either culpable or not culpable.

Can I appeal the decisions of the Dean?

If the Dean imposes Suspension or Dismissal, students may appeal to the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs. The procedures for appeal and the timeline of an appeal are spelled out in the UCLA Student Conduct Code.

If I am sanctioned will there be a mark on my transcript?

If suspended, notation of that Suspension will appear on the transcript while the student is suspended. A Dismissal appears on the transcript indefinitely.

What other records are there about the case?

Records are confidential and are typically kept for seven years in the Dean's Office. At the end of seven years, records concerning most cases are destroyed. Only individuals with a legitimate educational interest in the matter will be informed. Those individuals often include the Registrar, the complaining faculty member, some schools, and the Graduate Division. The specifics of record keeping should be discussed with the Dean.