University Lawyer Ann Arbor, MI
University students, especially those attending right out of high school, face four years of challenges, mistakes, and transitions. As students grow into adulthood, there are bound to be some poor choices along the way, but a mistake in your late teens or early twenties shouldn’t impact the rest of your life. At K Altman Law, we offer advice and support for students facing legal challenges, whether it’s questions of academic dishonesty, being discriminated against in the classroom, or getting arrested for a crime on campus. University students have unique legal needs specific to their environment and often must contend not just with Michigan law enforcement but with campus police and student discipline boards as well.
Going to college doesn’t mean you don’t have the same civil rights as anyone else, including the right to hire your own Ann Arbor, MI, university lawyer to defend those rights and protect your interests. We represent students, professors, and other university professionals in a variety of university-related legal matters. We want to help protect your academic record, scholarship, career, and freedom. Call us today for a confidential consultation to discuss your concerns.
Legal Support From an Ann Arbor University Lawyer
We provide insight into your legal situation, explore the options for resolving it, and advise you so you can make the right decisions for your case. Our experienced team of attorneys can help you through many common legal situations facing university students and staff, such as:
- Representing you in student disciplinary hearings or administrative hearings if you have been accused of misconduct
- Advocating for the rights of students facing discrimination and those who have had their civil rights violated due to their membership in a protected class
- Protecting your reputation and academic standing if you have been accused of academic dishonesty, including cheating, plagiarism, and non-permitted use of AI
- Helping victims of sexual assault, harassment, or abuse speak up and hold the perpetrator accountable
- Protect you from retaliation for asserting your rights
- Advocating for women’s rights in Title IX violations
- Defending students who have been accused of a crime on campus, such as misdemeanor alcohol possession, drug charges, assault, or sexual misconduct
Representing Students And Staff Falsely Accused Of Misconduct
Part of the college experience is making mistakes and learning practical lessons from them. However, young adults may make judgment errors that shouldn’t affect their university education, financial aid, scholarships, or employment opportunities. When you encounter trouble on campus, you need a strong legal advocate by your side, someone who protects you and your future.
Any allegations of criminal misconduct, academic dishonesty, or illicit use or distribution of drugs or alcohol can have serious ramifications, even if you are cleared of the charges. Damage to your reputation may make it more difficult to secure financial aid or sought-after internships and other academic opportunities.
We know that many students fear being expelled from the university, losing their financial aid, and disappointing their parents. We’re on your side, looking out for your interests and helping you achieve a positive resolution for your matter.
Ann Arbor University Glossary
K Altman Law provides thorough legal representation for students, faculty, and university professionals in Ann Arbor, MI. Our priority is protecting your rights, reputation, and future while addressing legal concerns related to campus life. Below, we’ve outlined key legal terms and concepts that often arise in university-related cases, helping you better understand what’s at stake and how we can assist.
Academic Dishonesty
Academic dishonesty encompasses any action that violates a university’s integrity policies. Examples include cheating on exams, plagiarizing written work, falsifying research data, or using unauthorized tools such as AI for assignments without explicit permission. Accusations of academic dishonesty carry serious consequences, such as failing grades, removal from programs, or even expulsion. Beyond academic penalties, these allegations can tarnish your reputation and limit future opportunities. At K Altman Law, we focus on preserving your academic and professional future by challenging unfair accusations, ensuring that evidence is reviewed thoroughly, and advocating for fair treatment in hearings or appeals.
Student Disciplinary Hearings
A student disciplinary hearing is a formal process in which a university reviews alleged violations of its policies. These hearings address issues ranging from academic misconduct to violations of behavioral codes, such as underage drinking, drug possession, or disruptive behavior. The outcomes of these hearings can affect your academic standing, scholarships, and future opportunities. Students often feel overwhelmed when navigating these processes without proper representation, as the rules governing hearings can be complex and inconsistent. Our attorneys at K Altman Law ensure that students facing disciplinary actions are treated fairly, that procedural errors are identified, and that their side of the story is presented clearly and effectively.
Title IX Violations
Title IX is a federal law that prohibits gender-based discrimination in education. Violations under Title IX can include allegations of sexual harassment, assault, or discrimination in educational programs or athletics. Universities are legally obligated to investigate these claims while following specific procedures to ensure fairness to both complainants and respondents. These cases often involve high stakes, including potential expulsion or career consequences. Respondents are entitled to protections such as receiving notice of allegations, accessing evidence, and having an advisor during hearings. At K Altman Law, we provide knowledgeable representation to ensure your rights are upheld during investigations and hearings, and we support complainants seeking justice and accountability.
Civil Rights Violations
Civil rights violations occur when a university or individual discriminates against someone based on protected characteristics such as race, gender, disability, religion, or age. In a campus environment, this could involve unequal access to programs, denial of disability accommodations, racially motivated disciplinary actions, or harassment by peers or faculty. Such violations not only harm individuals but also violate state and federal laws. We at K Altman Law are committed to holding institutions accountable for these injustices. We work closely with clients to document violations, file complaints, and pursue legal remedies to secure fair treatment and compensation when appropriate.
Campus Criminal Defense
Campus criminal defense involves representing students accused of crimes on or near university property. Common charges include minor in possession of alcohol, drug possession, assault, theft, or sexual misconduct. These cases can be particularly challenging because they often involve overlapping jurisdictions: local law enforcement, campus police, and university disciplinary systems. A criminal conviction or even an unresolved allegation can jeopardize your academic career, financial aid, and job prospects. Our team at K Altman Law offers strategic defense tailored to each case, ensuring that students understand their rights and options, whether dealing with university hearings or court proceedings. We fight to protect not only your legal record but also your future opportunities.
Contact Our Education Lawyers Today!
We take a firm approach to each matter, giving you the respect and dignity you deserve as a young adult. Many of our clients have never dealt with the legal system before; we understand and answer your questions and give advice personalized for your situation. You have more rights than you realize and, often, more options than it looks at first. At K Altman Law, we’re committed to making sure that you have a bright future. Contact us today to discuss your matter with an experienced Ann Arbor university lawyer.
