University Charges

What a University Charge is

A University Charge could be an academic integrity violation (such as cheating or plagiarism), a student conduct violation (such as underage consumption of alcohol or possession of illegal drugs), any violations that occurred in University housing, or a Title IX violation. If you have been charged with any of these, you should have recieved an email from either the Office of Student Conduct, the Office of Rights and Responsibilities, or the Office of Civil Rights and Sexual Misconduct informing you that you have been referred.

Watch this informative video for some tips about how to avoid an Academic Dishonesty charge while retaking a course: 

Retaking a Course? How to Avoid Academic Dishonesty

What You Should Do

If you have questions about the Preliminary Interview or Resolution Agreement, watch these informative videos before making an appointment:

1. What to Expect at your Preliminary Interview

2. What You Could See on a Resolution Agreement

If you have questions about a Disciplinary Conference/Disciplinary Conference Board or an Honor review, watch these informative videos before making an appointment:

1. What to Expect at a Virtual Disciplinary Conference or Disciplinary Conference Board

2. What to Expect at a Virtual Honor Review

If you still have questions or are further along in the process, make an appointment for University Charge Assistance.  Make sure to read this document beforehand to review your rights and responsibilities, and what you can expect from SLAO.

How SLAO Can Help

Advocates cannot accompany students to a Preliminary Interview, which is the first step of the process for a charge from the Office of Student Conduct and the Office of Rights and Responsibilities, but they can provide advice before the interview takes place. Afterwards, Advocates can provide you with recommendations on the best course of action for your case, as well as represent you at proceedings. 

For Title IX, a Student Advocate can: 

• Serve as an advisor or support person for you at any point in the process
• Help you take notes during interviews and investigations
• Help you draft any statements that you need

Watch this video to learn more about what you can expect from a Student Advocate and what we expect from you when we agree to represent you at a conference or hearing.

Eligibility

The Undergraduate Legal Aid Office is a free service available to currently-enrolled full-time University of Maryland undergraduates. Please bring your University ID when you visit the office so we can verify your status. Students without a University ID cannot be helped.

Testimonials

• "They were able to explain all the options available to me."
• "Each step of the process was clearly explained."
• "I really appreciated the kindness and genuine care that was shown to me throughout my case. I felt very supported which meant a lot to me at the time."
• "The advocates were always super helpful and ready to answer any of my questions"
• "They made me feel very comfortable and less stressed about the whole situation."
• "It was very nice to have someone to go to that was my age to ask questions"