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Advisors

Participating in the conduct process can be challenging for any student. However, students are encouraged to consider bringing an advisor.

An advisor is a person selected by the student (respondent or complainant) to assist and accompany them through the University conduct process. An advisor may not speak, be a witness, or otherwise participate on behalf of the student. An advisor role is that of support - advisors do not have an active, participatory role in the conduct process.

An advisor may be:

  • A member of the McKendree community (faculty, staff, or student)

  • A support coordinator

  • A parent or legal guardian

  • A relative

  • An attorney

All advisors will be required to sign a FERPA waiver before being permitted access to judicial meetings or information.

What can an advisor do?

  • Accompany the student in any conduct proceedings

  • Advise the student in the preparation and presentation of sharing information

  • Advise the student in the preparation of any appeals or sanction reviews

Students are responsible for asking and responding to questions on their own. The advisor may advise the student, but may not make a presentation or represent the student. The advisor may consult with their advisee, but may not speak on behalf of the advisee. Delays in the conduct process will not be allowed due to scheduling conflicts with advisors. 

Attorneys representing Students

If a student chooses to seek legal counsel about their conduct proceedings, they may do so under the following circumstances:

  • The University is being represented by legal counsel; and/or

  • The alleged policy violation(s) could result in civil or ciminal charges against them

Attorneys can be present at the hearing and may advise the student of their rights and responsibilities relative to possible civil action, but may not otherwise participate in the judicial hearing. If a student chooses to be represented by legal counsel, or a non-legal representative, they must submit the Legal Counsel Request Form (which can be obtained in the Office for Student Affairs) to the Office for Student Affairs five business days in advance of the scheduled hearing date.

An attorney cannot "represent" a student in a hearing but may be present if a legal case is still pending of the same incident. If the student's legal case has been concluded, an attorney may not be present at a hearing. If in attendance, an attorney may advise the student about answering questions that may be self-incriminating, but may not question any individual, raise objections, or otherwise participate in the hearing.