In order to assist a hearing board in understanding the facts of the case so they can make the best possible decision, you should take time to prepare for your hearing. The following guidelines will assist you with this process.
Before the Hearing
- Carefully review the Code of Community Standards for the most detailed information regarding the hearing process.
- Review the charges and allegations that appear on the 'Acknowledgement of Rights Form' that you received during your informational meeting as well as any other information or reports that you may have regarding the incident.
- Review the definitions of the Student Conduct Codes that have been alleged against you. The board will determine if your actions meet the definition of the code(s) in question.
- Think about what you want to say in your opening and closing statements. Most students speak extemporaneously when giving their statements but, if you feel more comfortable or if you want to ensure that you don't forget any important points, you may use an outline or bring a written statement(s) to read to the board.
- If you are calling witnesses to speak on your behalf, remember that you must submit a Witness Request Form at least two (2) business days in advance of the hearing. The Office of Community Standards will contact these individuals to ensure that they qualify to serve as witnesses. (Witnesses must be students, faculty or staff - nonstudents are not authorized to serve as witnesses. They must have been present or have firsthand, direct knowledge of the incident in question - no character witnesses are permitted.)
- Consider each of the witnesses who will be present and determine if there are any specific questions that you will want to ask them.
- Determine if you will be requesting an advisor for the hearing. Most students choose not to have an advisor, however, in serious cases or if you are particularly apprehensive about the hearing process, you may elect to have one. You are required to provide the Office of Community Standards with notification of your intention to have an advisor. Notification must be submitted on an Authorization for Hearing Advisor Form at least one (1) business day prior to the hearing.
During the Hearing
- Arrive on time and notify the staff/panel that you are present. Remember if you do not attend your hearing, it will proceed in your absence and a decision will be rendered.
- Bring any notes/statements that you may have - remember that no documents, pictures or other physical evidence can be submitted during the hearing without prior approval from the Assistant Dean/Designee.
- Do not bring any cell phones or other electronic devices that have the capability of recording as these items are not allowed in the hearing.
- Present your opening statement - an explanation of what happened in your own words and how you are responding to the charge(s) outlined.
- Question all witnesses, particularly those who might have presented testimony in conflict with yours.
- Present your closing statement - whatever information you want the board to consider as they prepare to begin their deliberations.
After the Hearing
- The Office of Community Standards will notify you of the outcome of the hearing via your Hofstra Pride email – notification is typically made within 5-7 business days after the hearing.
- It is your responsibility to adhere to any/all sanction requirements until/unless you are informed in writing of approved modifications.
- If you intend to appeal the outcome of a hearing, you must do so within seven (7) calendar days of receiving your decision letter.
NOTE: The process for Sexual Misconduct cases is governed by the Student Policy Prohibiting Sex Discrimination, Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking. Students preparing for a Sexual Misconduct Hearing should consult this policy as some of the procedures/deadlines are different from those outlined above.