Navigating university suspension, expulsion or disciplinary proceedings, whilst facing a criminal police investigation: Know your rights and options.

Facing suspension or expulsion from university due to a police investigation can be an incredibly distressing and uncertain time. It’s crucial to understand your rights and options during this challenging period to ensure that you take all necessary steps to ensure that defend your education and position. In this blog post, we will explore your rights and the steps you should take, if you are ever confronted with such a situation.

Presumption of Innocence

In the UK criminal justice system there is a presumption of innocence, although it may not feel that way to those accused of criminal allegations. It is vital to ensure that your educational establishment and other agencies are reminded of this fact and that any disruption to your education and future prospects are minimised, until the criminal matters are concluded.

Securing Legal Representation

Dependent upon the nature of the criminal investigation your university, on notification of the matters, may decide to suspended or expel you. Seeking legal representation in relation to professional discipline matters is key.

A Solicitor who specialises in regulatory and criminal matters can advise, support and guide you through the complexities of the legal process and advocate for your interests.

Understanding Privacy Rights

Universities often have policies and procedures regarding internal and police investigations that may impact your privacy within the academic setting. Again, legal experience will assist with familiarising you with the relevant policies and how they can be balanced against your legal rights.

University Policies

It will be necessary to review your university’s policies, procedures and appeals process at an early stage. An experienced legal team will assist in your understanding of the application of these rules and guidelines. It is imperative that you are aware of all stages involved, deadlines for responses or appeals, and the channels available for seeking redress.

Exploring Appeal Processes

We understand that your education is key and that any detrimental impact at such an early stage can permanently damage your professional future job prospects. That is why it is crucial to consider challenging any matters which could result in such an impact, by initiating the appeal process. Each educational institutions will have their own aown appeal process, should you wish to challenge any unjust fetters upon your educational development.  A professional discipline Solicitor will assist your understanding of the process, ensuring documentation is properly completed and increases your chances of a successful appeal. Consulting and instructing a specialist in this area will ensure in damage to your future earnings and potential being minimised.

Seeking Professional Guidance

It is highly likely that any criminal investigations can take months and even years. For a student,uncertainty, suspension or expulsion for such a period would be devastating. Instructing a legal team as soon as practicable results in meaningful negotiations with your educational establishment to seek to ensure the disruption and damage to your education is minimal. Safeguarding is also a topic which your legal team can address with your University. Every individual’s situation is unique and it is therefore, imperative that your legal advisor has experience in professional discipline and criminal matters.

If you find yourself in this situation, contact one of our professional discipline/ criminal law specialists today by visiting our website or calling +44 (0)203 196 7822