Legal Question in Education Law in California

Someone plagiarized my entire work and submitted it as their own at my university. Today I got an email saying that I committed academic misconduct. It took me a while to remember, but I do remember helping my friend and allowing her to see my work in the course specified... I didn't realize that she copied word for word when I was helping her. I don't believe I am the one at fault here because I was only helping her, and it was a course I took two years ago. What should I say when I meet with the dean of student affairs?


Asked on 12/22/12, 2:07 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Andrew Harrell W. Andrew Harrell, Attorney at Law

You didn't mention whether or not your university is private, i.e., one of the numerous for-profit schools, or a public university in California. There's a big difference. I have handled a number of plagiarism cases, both as a university professor and attorney. It's clear that someone at your school has decided that you abetted in the other student's plagiarism. (Frankly, I'm surprised they every found out!) Your argument that you didn't intend to do this and were unaware that your friend would use your work. In a normal, court room situation, the university would have to prove their case and adhere to rules of evidence and procedure. Universities, especially in California, don't feel they need to. In my experience, university administrators are not only ignorante of due process but have contempt for it. That's what you're up against. Since this is an academic matter, the courts will defer to the university--unless there is an egregious violation of due process. Be sure to get as many written witness statements to support your position that you were just a good samaritan and didn't know your work would be appropriated. Also, use ever appeal in the university. Don't miss any deadlines. Demand a hearing, and keep notes on everything said and done.

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Answered on 12/22/12, 8:10 am


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