For most students, college or graduate school marks an exciting and transformative time in their lives. But for those accused of misconduct—academic, behavioral, or criminal—the experience can quickly become overwhelming and threaten their entire future.
At Biello & Soowal, PLLC, we provide dedicated and compassionate legal guidance to students facing various disciplinary and criminal matters. As a Florida college/university and post-grad student defense lawyer, we understand the importance of resolving issues promptly and protecting your academic path and career opportunities.
Our legal team stands ready to assist undergraduate, graduate, and professional school students throughout Florida. Whether you are involved in a campus conduct hearing, facing criminal charges, or under investigation for a Title IX violation, we can help you take immediate and informed action.
Why Student Defense Requires a Unique Approach
Student defense cases differ from typical legal matters. Students must navigate two separate yet overlapping systems: the criminal justice system and the university’s administrative disciplinary system. These proceedings often have vastly different rules, timelines, and consequences.
An allegation that seems minor to outsiders, such as an alcohol violation or a dispute with a roommate, can have a devastating impact on a student’s educational and professional future. A suspension or expulsion from a Florida university can derail scholarships, delay graduation, and even lead to the revocation of job or graduate program offers. We take every case seriously and fight to protect our clients’ futures.
According to the Florida Department of Education, over 1.1 million students are enrolled in higher education across the state. With growing enrollment and evolving policies, student disciplinary actions are becoming more frequent and complex. Having a student defense lawyer in Florida with knowledge of legal and academic systems is essential.
Common Situations Requiring Student Defense
Our law firm handles a wide variety of issues for students enrolled in public and private universities, graduate schools, and technical programs in Florida. Some of the most common include:
Academic Misconduct Allegations
These may include plagiarism, cheating, unauthorized collaboration, data fabrication, or falsifying credentials. Schools take these accusations seriously, often resulting in automatic course failure, academic probation, or suspension. We help students gather evidence, prepare for hearings, and present their story.
Behavioral Misconduct
Accusations of hazing, threats, harassment, vandalism, drug or alcohol use, or violations of dorm policies fall under a university’s code of conduct. Students can be reported by peers, faculty, or university personnel. A finding of responsibility may lead to housing removal, suspension, or disciplinary records that follow you beyond graduation.
Criminal Charges
When a university student is arrested, they may face prosecution under Florida criminal law and parallel disciplinary action by the school. Common charges include:
- Underage drinking (Florida Statute § 562.111)
- Possession of marijuana or other controlled substances (Fla. Stat. § 893.13)
- Disorderly conduct or resisting arrest (Fla. Stat. §§ 877.03 and 843.02)
- Battery or assault (Fla. Stat. § 784.03 and § 784.011)
- Sexual battery (Fla. Stat. § 794.011)
We represent students in court proceedings and coordinate with school disciplinary boards to protect their rights in both forums.
Title IX Investigations
Allegations of sexual harassment, stalking, dating violence, or sexual assault fall under Title IX. Title IX mandates prompt investigations and fair resolution, but the processes at universities are often inconsistent and high-stakes. An adverse finding can result in suspension, expulsion, and permanent marks on your academic record.
As student defense lawyers in Florida, we prepare students for interviews, examine due process concerns, and ensure fair treatment throughout the Title IX process.
Professional Misconduct (Post-Graduate Students)
Medical, law, and graduate students face additional accountability because their academic conduct may impact their future licensure. Plagiarism, misconduct, criminal accusations, or even social media behavior can lead to academic discipline and a required report to a licensing board. We help post-grad students defend their reputation and navigate these added complications.
The Disciplinary Hearing Process in Florida Schools
Most Florida colleges and universities operate under the Florida Board of Governors or their institutional policies. For example, the University of Florida Student Conduct Code provides a step-by-step disciplinary process that includes:
- Initial report and investigation
- Notification of charges
- Opportunity to review evidence
- Disciplinary hearing (administrative or panel-based)
- Right to present witnesses and evidence
- Appeal, depending on outcome
The standard of proof in these hearings is usually “preponderance of the evidence,” which means more likely than not. Compared to criminal courts, this lower standard makes it easier for schools to issue disciplinary findings. That’s why students must have legal representation to mount an effective defense.
We work closely with students to understand the specific school policies that apply and prepare for every stage of the hearing process. We also advocate for accommodations, alternative sanctions, and dismissal of charges where possible.
Understanding Title IX: What’s at Stake
Title IX complaints are some of students’ most complex and emotionally charged issues. Florida schools receiving federal funds must comply with Title IX’s requirement to prevent and address sexual misconduct. But the procedures vary from campus to campus.
Under the U.S. Department of Education’s regulations, respondents in Title IX investigations must be:
- Presumed not responsible until proven otherwise
- Provided with written notice of allegations
- Allowed to review all evidence
- Given the opportunity to respond
- Allowed an advisor (including a lawyer) during proceedings
We act as your advisor throughout the Title IX process, ensuring compliance with procedural requirements and defending against biased investigations or flawed hearings.
Stand Up for What’s Right in Education
Contact Bilello & Soowal, PLLC, Today To Set Up A Free Initial Consultation
The Risks of Self-Representation
Many students try to handle disciplinary hearings or Title IX cases without an attorney. This can be a serious mistake. School investigators are trained to build a case, not to help you defend yourself. Anything you say may be used against you later, and procedural errors can cost you valuable rights.
We’ve seen far too many cases where students waited too long to get legal help, only to face harsh penalties that could have been avoided. As Florida college/university and post-grad student defense lawyers, we step in early to control the narrative, protect your interests, and seek the most favorable resolution possible.
How We Defend Students
Every case is different. Our first step is always to listen. Once we understand your goals and the nature of the allegations, we:
- Analyze the charges and applicable school policies
- Review all evidence and documentation
- Help you prepare a written response, if needed
- Represent you in interviews and hearings
- Cross-examine witnesses where permitted
- Negotiate for alternative sanctions or case dismissal
- Handle appeals, if necessary
- Represent you in any related criminal proceedings
Whether you are facing expulsion for plagiarism, a Title IX allegation, or criminal charges related to campus activity, we work to preserve your academic record, safeguard your rights, and protect your future.
Your Future is on the Line
College and graduate students work for years to build their academic credentials. A disciplinary mark, suspension, or arrest can not only delay graduation—it can destroy job offers, scholarship eligibility, immigration status, and graduate school admissions. According to a recent American Association of Collegiate Registrars report, more than 60% of universities ask about disciplinary history on transfer or grad school applications.
That’s why we fight aggressively to avoid a permanent record of the accusation. When possible, we pursue alternative resolutions such as educational programs, informal agreements, and complaint withdrawal.
Case Examples
- Medical Student Accused of Cheating: We helped a Florida medical student respond to a false accusation of cheating during an online exam. After presenting digital evidence and inconsistencies in the proctor’s report, the academic committee dismissed the complaint.
- Title IX and Criminal Overlap: A graduate student accused of sexual assault was investigated by both the university and law enforcement. We coordinated his defense in both arenas, ensured proper procedures were followed, and obtained a dismissal of charges at both levels.
- False Drug Allegation: A student was accused of possessing marijuana in a dorm room. After reviewing the evidence and challenging the search’s legality, we dismissed the university case and negotiated a diversion program in court, avoiding a criminal record.
Serving Students Across Florida
We proudly serve students attending:
- University of Florida (UF)
- Florida State University (FSU)
- University of Miami (UM)
- University of Central Florida (UCF)
- University of South Florida (USF)
- Florida International University (FIU)
- Private colleges and professional schools statewide
If you’re facing academic, disciplinary, or legal trouble, we can help.
FAQs
Can I be punished by my school even if criminal charges are dropped?
Yes. Colleges and universities operate under a separate system. Even if a criminal court dismisses the charges, the school may still pursue disciplinary action based on its code of conduct.
Do I need a lawyer for a school disciplinary hearing?
While you may not be entitled to have a lawyer speak for you at some hearings, you always have the right to an advisor. Having a student defense lawyer in Florida ensures your strategy, preparation, and presentation are as strong as possible.
Will a disciplinary violation show up on my transcript?
It depends on the school and the outcome. Some infractions may not appear, while others—especially suspensions or expulsions—can become part of your permanent academic record. We work to avoid any outcome that could damage your future.
Can I appeal a university decision?
Most Florida schools allow for appeals if you can show a procedural error, new evidence, or disproportionate punishment. We prepare appeals when warranted and guide you through the process.
What should I do if Title IX investigators contact me?
Do not speak to anyone until you consult a lawyer. You have the right to remain silent, the right to review the complaint, and the right to an advisor. Early legal guidance can shape your entire case.
Contact Us Today
At Biello & Soowal, PLLC, we’re more than just attorneys—we’re advocates for your future. Contact us today if you’re a Florida college or post-grad student facing disciplinary action, a criminal charge, or a Title IX complaint. We’ll help you understand your options, defend your rights, and fight for the best possible outcome so you can stay focused on your education and goals.
