Johnston, Stannard, Klesner, Burbidge and Fitzgerald, P.L.C.

Free 30-Minute Consultation: 319-359-6492

Johnston, Stannard, Klesner, Burbidge and Fitzgerald, P.L.C.

319-359-6492

Protecting Your
Rights And Future

University Disciplinary Actions In Iowa

Last updated on August 26, 2024

When a student is accused of criminal activity while attending the University of Iowa, Iowa State, Kirkwood Community College (KCC) or a different college in the state, they could face disciplinary action from the university. This could even happen in addition to criminal penalties. A student who is accused of drunk driving could face DUI/OWI charges that come with fines, fees, jail time and a license suspension, for instance, while also facing the threat of suspension or expulsion.

At Johnston, Stannard, Klesner, Burbidge & Fitzgerald, P.L.C., we know that students – and their parents – just want to focus on the future. They have worked hard for their education and their career goals, and they do not want to lose everything due to a single criminal charge in college. We bring vast experience – attorney Shawn Fitzgerald has 20 years of criminal defense experience. We can effectively represent students, offer legal guidance and seek a solution that puts their future first. We also offer free 30-minute consultations, so call now.

Understanding University Policies And Procedures

Most UI students are aware that the school has various behavioral policies in place, including a personal conduct policy. When students appear to have violated these school policies, it could spark university investigations.

For instance, when Hawkeye students face criminal charges, the school will provide a notice of an impending investigation. The school also uses a lower standard of proof than criminal court, seeking to determine if the allegations are “more likely than not” and looking at the preponderance of evidence. The investigation is carried out by the Office of Student Accountability (OSA). When criminal charges are involved, the student may have violated the Code of Student Life at UI.

Some disciplinary sanctions could include communication with parents or written reprimands, especially for crimes like alcohol or marijuana violations. More serious or repeated offenses, like theft or assault, could lead to suspension or expulsion.

Don’t Let Criminal Charges Threaten Your Future

When you or your child faces the criminal justice system alongside university investigations and hearings, it is critical to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney. Attorney Shawn Fitzgerald understands the stakes involved and will fight for your freedom, future and education. Our office is conveniently located in Iowa City, ten minutes from the University of Iowa campus. Attorney Fitzgerald can advise on what to expect, particularly when you face both a criminal investigation and a university misconduct investigation.

Your Legal Options

Don’t face this process alone. To set up a free consultation with a lawyer to consider your options, just call 319-359-6492 or contact us online now.

Notable Cases

Cedar County AGCR024516 — PLEA OFFER ACCEPTED — Attorney Shawn Fitzgerald’s client was accused of the crime of Operating a Motor Vehicle While License is Barred as a Habitual Offender §321.560/ §321.561/ §321.555 /§321.556 (An Aggravated Misdemeanor), as well as Failure to Use Child Restraint Devise §321.446 (A Scheduled Violation). Attorney Shawn Fitzgerald was able to secure a plea offer satisfactory to both client and state.

Notable Cases

Muscatine County AGCR057733 — PLEA ACCEPTED, CHARGE REDUCED — Attorney Shawn Fitzgerald’s client was accused of Domestic Abuse Assault §708.2A(2)(b) (A Serious Misdemeanor). An initial plea offer stated the client would have to plead guilty as charged, attorney Shawn Fitzgerald worked for a better offer for his client. The client was able to plead guilty to an amended lesser charge of Disorderly Conduct §723.4(2) (A Simple Misdemeanor).