Legal Question in Education Law in California

I dropped a class in college four years ago by turning in the "drop" form to my school's enrollment office. Just recently a grade appeared on my unofficial transcript saying that I received an "F" in the particular class that I dropped years ago. I called the school and they told me that they had no record of me dropping the class and that although I turned in the form to the office, my form may not have been forwarded to the department who has the power to remove the grade. This "F" on my transcript will drastically affect my chances of getting into a good law school, would I be able to sue if I get turned away from certain schools because of this blemish on my record? Thank you.


Asked on 10/21/11, 11:45 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Even if you could come up with some sort of cause of action, it would be nearly impossible to prove your case. First, you would need to prove that the school made the mistake and not you. I guess if you had a official transcript before the "F" popped up or the school is willing to admit that it just recently added it you may have a chance, but I find that highly unlikely. Further, I believe withdrawals (or drops) are noted on transcripts. The question would be why didn't you address this sooner. Second, you would have to prove that you were denied admission to the "good" law school solely because the "F." Law schools take many factors into consideration when accepting students. I find it highly unlikely that any law school admissions board is going to state that, "the only reason we did not accept you is because of the "F." Third, it would be nearly impossible to calculate your damages. I not sure how you could put a monetary value on going to a good school versus an average school. I guess eventually you could argue the difference between what an average grad makes from each school, but this would call for too much speculation. What if you never graduated from any law school. I image that the school has some sort of administrative review process that is probably your best bet if you are still within the time limits. Four years is a long time, and it may be too late. Perhaps another attorney could provide you with additional or alternative advice.

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Answered on 10/22/11, 10:21 am

I agree with Mr. Kane and would add that until you have exhausted ALL administrative remedies with the school you don't even get to the starting point of his discussion. Furthermore, with the ratio of tuition and student loan debt to the hiring and pay rates for first year lawyers, you probably owe this school money if they keep you out of law school.

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Answered on 10/22/11, 9:43 pm


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