Frequently Asked Questions

How will I know if I have to meet with a judicial affairs officer?
You will be contacted by either Housing and Residence Life or the Office of
Judicial Affairs. You may be contacted either by phone or by mail.

Do I have to attend the conference or hearing?
No. It is strongly recommend that student comply with request from University administrators. Failure to attend a scheduled student hearing will result in further disciplinary actions. You may choose to not attend, but the conference will be held in your absence, and a sanction will still be determined based on the preponderance of evidence available.

Do I need a lawyer?
A student may choose to obtain legal council, however, legal council will not be allowed to represent a student before the University Disciplinary Committee. Legal council can advise the student and will not be allowed to address the committee. The University reserves the right to review student incidents independent of action by civil and criminal authorities and apply the University disciplinary process as it serves the educational mission of WKU, a function separate and distinct from civil and criminal proceedings.

Am I going to be expelled from school?
Sanctions are determined upon the severity of the offense, preponderance of evidence, and level of student responsibility. (Sanctions can be found in the Student Handbook, under Disciplinary Actions.)

Can I appeal?
Yes, in any case where a student is suspended or expelled, they may appeal to the President of the University. One or all of the follow conditions must be met in order for an appeal to be considered. An appeal should by set forth by the accused:

1. To determine whether the original hearing was conducted fairly and in accordance with the University hearing procedures.
2. To determine whether the decision reached regarding the accused student was based on substantial information to determine the preponderance of evidence and/or the level of responsibility.
3. To determine whether any sanctions imposed by the University Disciplinary Committee were appropriate for violation/s set forth in the Student Code of Conduct.

The continuation of the appeals process will be reviewed and determined by the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Development. If one of the aforementioned conditions is proven, the appeal will be forwarded to the President and the Board of Regents for review. If one of the three conditions for appeals is not met, the decision of the University Disciplinary Committee will be upheld and the accused expected to comply immediately.

Written notice of intent to appeal must be received by the Office of the President within 5 days, excluding holidays or weekends, following notification of the Committee’s decision.