/Institutions/University-of-Science-and-Arts-of-Oklahoma/json/2024-2025/2024-2025-Student-Handbook-local.json

/Institutions/University-of-Science-and-Arts-of-Oklahoma/json/2024-2025/2024-2025-Student-Handbook.json

3. Hearing Procedures

The hearing provides a forum where all the information and documents can be presented, where questions can be asked of all parties, and where the conduct officer/decision maker(s) can deliberate and make a decision using a preponderance of evidence, that is it more likely than not that a violation of the Student Code of Conduct did, or did not, occur.

Formal rules of process, procedure, and technical rules of evidence, such as those applied in criminal or civil court, are not used in student conduct proceedings. Deviations from prescribed procedures will not necessarily invalidate a decision or proceeding unless significant prejudice to the student or the university may result.

To protect the privacy of all parties and in accordance with FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act), hearings will be closed.

The respondent and complainant can present witnesses who may be questioned by the conduct officer(s). Questioning by the complainant or the respondent is permitted so long as it is relevant and is not threatening or harassing.

The hearing (excluding the deliberations) will be audio recorded. The recordings are the property of the university. Others will not be allowed to make a recording of any type. The university is not responsible for equipment malfunctions. Requests to review audio recordings may be made to the Dean of Students office.

If the respondent elects not to appear for the hearing, the hearing will be held in their absence. Failure to appear will be noted without prejudice. Findings will be based on information presented at the hearing.

Material witnesses will be present during the introductory comments of the hearing, including the honesty statement, at which point they will be excused until time to give their testimony. Witnesses will be excused upon completion of testimony and questioning, but they may be asked to remain available for recall. The complainant and respondent may remain throughout the hearing.

At the conclusion of the hearing, all parties will be dismissed except for the conduct officer/decision maker(s), who will deliberate and reach a decision.

A student’s past conduct record may be subject to an educational discussion at the hearing. Past conduct history does not impact the finding of responsibility but could be used as information in determining appropriate sanctions.

The conduct officer/decision maker(s) may accommodate concerns for the personal safety, well-being, or fears of confronting the complainant, respondent, or other witnesses. Procedures or the hearing environment may be modified as determined by the Dean of Students office to be appropriate.