Frequently Asked Questions

How are conduct allegations resolved?
In the vast majority of conduct allegations, students work with a Conduct Officer for the College (for undergraduate students) or their respective School of enrollment to review the allegations and reach mutual agreement on responsibility and any outcomes. This is called an Informal Resolution Meeting and is an agreement-based, consensus process focused on education, development, prevention, and restorative justice practices. In situations where the Conduct Officer and the student do not reach mutual agreement or if there is an outcome which may include separation from Wake Forest University, the conduct meeting may be a Formal Resolution Meeting, where a Conduct Officer or panel makes a decision about responsibility and outcomes.

How will I know if there is a conduct allegation made?
You will receive notice of the conduct process through your Wake Forest University email, using our conduct system software (called Maxient). The email will direct you to a link where you can view and download the conduct letter, which specifies the allegations made and provides directions on how to make an appointment with a Conduct Officer, work with a Student Conduct Advisor, and understand resources for support.

What is the typical time period for scheduling a Formal Resolution Meeting?
Conduct meetings are scheduled around the student’s class schedule. In addition, the time frame for the meeting to be held can vary depending on the schedules of residence life staff, police officers, other law enforcement agencies, and other representatives from the University who are required to be present to provide information.

Which allegations take precedence over other ones?
Any case involving the presumptive outcome of suspension or expulsion is expedited to be scheduled as soon as possible.

How does an alleged student get assistance and guidance about the judicial process?
Students are encouraged to seek guidance and support from a student conduct advisor. These advisors are trained through an orientation program. Student conduct advisors help to prepare and the alleged, respond to questions, and support the student through the conduct process.

Does a student have a right to appeal?
The student has 14 calendar days from the notification of the decision to request an appeal of a Formal Resolution Meeting, by notifying the Secretary of the Judicial Council. The grounds for filing an appeal are the following: (1) sufficiency of the evidence to support the decision, (2) the appropriateness of the sanction, (3) germane new evidence, and (4) procedural error that significantly impacts the outcome.

If a student is suspended, when would that suspension occur?
If the case involves an academic misconduct charge (ex: cheating, plagiarism, deception), the usual semester for the suspension is the one following that in which the decision is rendered. The time-frames for other non-academic related suspensions are addressed on a case-by-case basis.