Student Misconduct Investigations at Colleges and Universities in New Jersey

When a college or university initiates a misconduct investigation, the stakes are immediate — and serious. These investigations can result in expulsion, degree denial, Title IX findings, transcript notations, and even referrals to law enforcement or licensing boards. Most students are unaware that even before a hearing occurs, statements made during the investigation phase can be used against them and permanently alter the course of their academic or professional future.

At Ratliff Jackson LLP, we represent students across New Jersey — including at Rutgers, Rowan, Princeton, Seton Hall, and other public and private institutions — who are under investigation for academic, disciplinary, or Title IX-related misconduct. We intervene early, advise strategically, and act decisively to protect your rights and your future.

Under most circumstances, we can also represent students nationwide in school misconduct investigations, particularly in complex or high-risk cases.

What Triggers a Student Misconduct Investigation?

An investigation may begin with a faculty report, a classmate complaint, a Title IX disclosure, or even an anonymous tip. Once a complaint is filed, the institution is obligated to follow its disciplinary or grievance procedures — and in Title IX cases, conduct a formal investigation under federal guidelines.

Common triggers include:

• Allegations of plagiarism or academic dishonesty
• Accusations of harassment, stalking, or assault under Title IX
• Violations of the student code of conduct (e.g., drugs, threats, disruptive behavior)
• Unprofessional conduct in clinical placements, internships, or residencies
• Conflicts with faculty or supervisors that escalate to disciplinary action
• Alleged violations of research integrity or university ethics policies

In many cases, schools will also impose interim measures — such as suspension, housing restrictions, or no-contact orders — before any hearing takes place.

What Happens During a Misconduct Investigation?

Every institution is different, but most investigations follow a standard sequence. These phases are critical — what happens here can shape the entire outcome:

1. Initial notification of allegations or investigation
2. Request for a statement or interview from the student
3. Fact-gathering by a conduct officer, Title IX coordinator, or external investigator
4. Collection of documents, communications, and witness interviews
5. Referral to a hearing panel or decision-maker
6. Issuance of findings and sanctions, with limited rights of appeal

Do not provide a written or recorded statement until you’ve consulted legal counsel. Investigators are not neutral — their findings often form the basis for disciplinary action, and anything you say can be misunderstood, taken out of context, or used against you later.

Our Role: Advisor’s During the Investigation Phase

Unlike many advisors, we’re attorneys — and we approach misconduct investigations as the legal proceedings they are. We don’t wait for the hearing. We take control during the investigation itself.

Our attorneys:

• Analyze the complaint, evidence, and school policies
• Prepare written responses or advisement for interviews
• Participate (when permitted) in investigative meetings and hearings
• Challenge procedural failures, bias, or investigative overreach
• Develop a record for appeal or external legal action if needed

We’ve seen countless cases where students made damaging admissions because they didn’t realize the consequences. With the right legal counsel early on, most misconduct matters can be significantly mitigated — or resolved before sanctions are imposed.

If your school has launched an investigation against you — or even suggested that one is coming — it’s time to get legal representation. Misconduct investigations move quickly. Rights are often waived. Evidence is collected before you have a chance to respond. Don’t risk your future by facing the process alone.

Call Ratliff Jackson LLP today at 856-209-3111 or contact us confidentially online. We’re prepared to intervene immediately — and protect everything you’ve worked for.

Frequently Asked Questions About Student Misconduct Investigations

Do I have to participate in a university investigation?

No — but declining to participate can still result in findings against you. You have the right to remain silent, seek legal counsel, and provide a strategic written response. We advise students on when and how to respond — and when not to.

Can I bring a lawyer to a misconduct interview or hearing?

Some schools limit attorney involvement during the investigation phase, but you always have the right to legal guidance behind the scenes. If your school allows counsel to be present, we will attend and advocate directly. Otherwise, we prepare you thoroughly and monitor every step.

Can statements I make during an investigation be used against me?

Yes — absolutely. Anything you say in a written statement, meeting, or interview can be cited in the final decision and used in appeals, Title IX rulings, or even criminal referrals. That’s why we always advise students to consult us before responding.

What if the investigation involves criminal allegations?

If the underlying conduct could constitute a crime (e.g., assault, harassment, drug use), the school may also refer the matter to police or prosecutors. In those cases, you must have legal representation immediately to avoid self-incrimination or double exposure in parallel investigations.

What happens after the investigation ends?

Typically, the investigator or conduct officer submits a report with findings. If they determine a policy violation occurred, the matter proceeds to a disciplinary hearing, where sanctions are decided. In Title IX cases, the findings alone may result in suspension or expulsion unless appealed.