Facing a university disciplinary investigation or employment dispute at the University of Florida can be a very overwhelming and intimidating experience. Whether you’re a student suddenly accused of violating the Student Conduct Code, a faculty member under review, or a staff member navigating a complex administrative process, the stakes are high—your education, career, and reputation are all on the line. The university’s procedures are often unfamiliar, the consequences far-reaching, and the pressure to respond quickly can leave you feeling isolated and uncertain.
At Turner O’Connor Kozlowski, PL (TOK Legal), our Gainesville defense lawyers understand these challenges because we have spent decades guiding UF students, faculty, and staff through precisely these situations. Our deep experience in university-related legal matters means we know how to protect your rights and future.
We are intimately familiar with UF’s disciplinary systems, administrative hearings, and internal policies. Our Gainesville education lawyers have helped countless members of the UF community—undergraduates, graduate students, faculty, and staff—navigate investigations, hearings, and appeals with skill and discretion.
If you are affiliated with UF and facing a legal or disciplinary issue, you do not have to face it alone. Our team is here to help you understand your options, defend your interests, and achieve the best possible outcome.
Student Conduct Defense
At the University of Florida, students are held to a high standard under the Student Conduct Code, which governs behavior both on and off campus. This code is designed not only to uphold academic integrity but also to promote respect, safety, and responsibility within the entire university community. By becoming a member of UF, students agree to abide by these standards, which cover a wide range of conduct expectations and violations.
At Turner O’Connor Kozlowski, PL, our Gainesville education lawyers represent both undergraduate and graduate students who face disciplinary hearings for alleged violations of this code. Whether you are accused of academic misconduct, drug or alcohol offenses, acts of violence, or other behavioral violations, we understand the serious consequences these charges carry and are prepared to defend your rights vigorously.
Common Violations Under UF’s Student Conduct Code and Honor Code Include:
- Academic misconduct (cheating, plagiarism)
- Drug and alcohol offenses
- Acts of violence or threats
- Property damage
- Hazing
- Other behavioral issues
How the Student Disciplinary Process Works
When a violation is reported, the Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution (SCCR) office initiates an investigation.
The process generally follows these steps:
- Charge Letter and Notification: The student receives a formal letter detailing the alleged violation and the evidence supporting it.
- Informational Meeting: The student meets with SCCR staff to discuss the allegations, review the process, and select a hearing* format.
- Decision and Sanctions: If found responsible, sanctions are imposed based on the severity of the violation and any prior conduct history.
- Appeals: Students have the right to appeal decisions on grounds such as procedural errors, insufficient evidence, or disproportionate sanctions.
In urgent cases, the university may impose an interim suspension, barring the student from campus and classes pending the hearing.
Hearing Options*
- Informal Hearing for less serious cases, which may result in a resolution without a formal hearing.
- Formal Hearing before a conduct committee or hearing officer for more serious allegations, especially those that could lead to suspension or expulsion.
How a Gainesville Education Lawyer Can Help
We guide students through every step of this process, helping them understand their student rights and prepare their defense. We assist in gathering evidence, advising on procedural rules, and strategizing for hearings. While students may have limited direct legal representation in hearings, our role as advisors is critical to ensuring your voice is heard and your rights protected.
Our Gainesville education lawyers also help with appeals when decisions are unfavorable, ensuring the university follows its own rules and that sanctions are fair and proportional. Our experience with UF’s Student Conduct Code means we know how to challenge evidence, question procedural errors, and advocate effectively for students facing serious consequences.
Title IX & School Sexual Misconduct Allegations
Allegations of sexual misconduct or harassment under Title IX are among the most serious cases that students and university employees can face. They are handled under specialized procedures and can result in severe academic and professional consequences.
At Turner O’Connor Kozlowski, PL, we provide experienced representation to both complainants and respondents involved in sexual misconduct and harassment investigations under the laws and policies of Title IX at the University of Florida.
Title IX Procedures and the Importance of Early Legal Intervention
The Title IX process at UF begins with the filing of a formal complaint, either by the complainant or, in some cases, by the Title IX Coordinator if the complainant is unwilling or unable to file but the university determines a response is necessary.
The university then conducts an investigation, collecting statements, evidence, and witness accounts. Once the investigation is complete, the case typically proceeds to a hearing before a Student Conduct Committee or a hearing panel.
Both parties have the right to be accompanied by an advisor, who may be an attorney, throughout the process, including during hearings and cross-examination. Early legal intervention is critical because the process can be lengthy—often taking six months to a year—and the consequences of a finding of responsibility can be severe, including suspension, expulsion, or termination of employment.
Having knowledgeable counsel from a trusted Gainesville education lawyer from the outset helps ensure your rights are protected, that you understand the process, and that you are prepared for hearings and possible sanctions.
Consequences for Both Complainants and Respondents
Title IX investigations profoundly affect both complainants and respondents. Complainants may face emotional distress and the challenge of pursuing their claims within a formal legal-administrative framework. Respondents risk significant academic, professional, and reputational harm, including disciplinary sanctions that can impact their education or career.
UF’s procedures strive to balance these interests, but the stakes remain high for all parties involved. Sanctions for respondents found responsible can range from warnings to suspension, expulsion, or termination.
For complainants, the process offers an opportunity for resolution and protection from further discrimination or harassment, but it also requires participation in a formal investigation and hearing.
Due Process Concerns and Cross-Examination Rights
Due process protections are a crucial aspect of Title IX proceedings. Both parties have the right to a fair and impartial process, including timely notice of allegations, access to evidence, and an opportunity to respond.
A key safeguard is the right to cross-examine witnesses through an advisor during live hearings. This right helps ensure that evidence is tested and that the decision-makers hear both sides fully.
At TOK Legal, our Gainesville education lawyers emphasize protecting these due process rights. We prepare clients to engage effectively in hearings, advise on the conduct of cross-examination, and challenge any procedural irregularities or bias. Ensuring a fair process is essential to achieving just outcomes and minimizing unnecessary harm.
Faculty & Staff Disputes with the University
Faculty and staff at UF may face disciplinary actions or employment disputes arising from various types of allegations. The university employs a progressive disciplinary process that can include oral or written reprimands, suspension (with or without pay), or termination, depending on the severity of the offense and mitigating circumstances.
At Turner O’Connor Kozlowski, PL, our Gainesville education lawyers represent University of Florida faculty and staff in a wide range of employment-related disputes, disciplinary actions, and internal investigations. Whether you are facing allegations of policy violations, performance concerns, or workplace conflicts, we provide skilled advocacy to protect your rights and interests.
We are strong defenders of academic freedom, ensuring that faculty members can pursue their scholarship and teaching without undue interference. We also insist on procedural fairness—making sure that university disciplinary processes follow established rules and respect your right to respond.
Additionally, we protect your contractual rights, including employment agreements and collective bargaining provisions.
Our approach emphasizes resolving disputes through internal university processes whenever possible. We guide clients through grievance procedures, administrative hearings, and negotiations, aiming to achieve fair outcomes without escalating to costly and time-consuming litigation.
When litigation becomes necessary, our Gainesville education lawyers are prepared to provide aggressive representation to defend your career and reputation.
Tenure and Promotion Disputes
Tenure and promotion decisions are pivotal moments in a faculty member’s career at UF, often determining long-term career stability and academic freedom. Unfortunately, these decisions can sometimes involve procedural irregularities, bias, or unfair treatment.
UF’s tenure and promotion review involves multiple levels of evaluation—from departmental committees to university-wide boards and the Board of Trustees. Each stage must adhere to clear criteria and procedural safeguards. Faculty members denied tenure have the right to appeal based on procedural errors or unfair evaluations.
Turner O’Connor Kozlowski, PL offers experienced legal guidance to tenure-track faculty navigating these high-stakes processes. Our Gainesville education lawyers understand the amount of work and effort our clients have put into their careers and are ready to provide strong advocacy for them.
We assist with challenges related to denial of tenure or promotion, including identifying procedural irregularities, bias, or violations of university policies that may have affected your review. We help you understand your rights, prepare appeals, and advocate for a fair reconsideration of your case.
Protecting your professional reputation and career trajectory is our priority. We work to ensure that tenure and promotion decisions are made transparently and fairly, preserving your academic freedom and future opportunities within the university and beyond.
Graduate & Professional Student Advocacy
Graduate, law, and medical students face unique challenges at UF, including strict codes of conduct, honor boards, and the impact of disciplinary actions on professional licensing and future careers. Turner O’Connor Kozlowski, PL specializes in representing these students with tailored advocacy.
Our Gainesville education lawyers help you navigate complex disciplinary procedures specific to your program, defend against allegations of academic or professional misconduct, and provide guidance on how disciplinary records may affect licensing or certification.
Our goal is to protect your academic standing and professional future, ensuring that allegations or investigations do not unfairly derail your career path.
Why Choose Our Gainesville Education Lawyers for University Legal Matters
When you’re facing a university-related legal issue, having the right legal team by your side can make all the difference. At Turner O’Connor Kozlowski, PL, we understand the pressures and complexities that students, faculty, and staff encounter within the University of Florida system. That’s why we are committed to providing clear, knowledgeable, and effective representation tailored to your unique situation.
Our firm has a proven track record of success representing members of the UF community in a wide range of matters—from student disciplinary hearings to faculty tenure disputes and employment conflicts. We bring deep expertise in UF’s procedures and administrative law, which allows us to navigate the university’s processes efficiently and advocate for your rights at every stage.
Above all, we offer discreet, strategic advocacy focused on protecting your education, employment, and reputation. We know how important these are to your future, and we work tirelessly to help you achieve the best possible outcome while minimizing disruption to your academic or professional life.
Choosing the Gainesville education lawyers at Turner O’Connor Kozlowski, PL means partnering with a dedicated team that truly understands the University of Florida and is committed to standing with you through challenging times.
Protect Your Academic and Professional Future — Contact a Gainesville Education Lawyer Today
If you are facing a university investigation or disciplinary action at the University of Florida, it’s crucial to reach out to Turner O’Connor Kozlowski, PL before responding to any university inquiries or making any statements. Early legal advice goes a long way in protecting your rights and helping you navigate the process with confidence.
We understand that these situations can be urgent and stressful. That’s why we offer prompt consultations to address your concerns quickly and provide the guidance you need when time is of the essence.
You can contact us by calling (352) 306-5385, submitting a message through our secure online contact form, or visiting our office conveniently located near the University of Florida campus in Gainesville.
Don’t wait—protect your future by getting trusted legal support from the Gainesville education lawyers at Turner O’Connor Kozlowski, PL today.
