Possible Outcomes After an Investigation (2023 Charter)

When the investigation is complete, the Conduct Investigator (CI) will decide whether or not to charge the Responding Student (RS) or refer the concern to another appropriate office.

No Formal Charge

If the CI determines there is insufficient evidence to support a formal charge (or sufficient evidence to support the allegations but falls short of rising to the level of a disciplinary matter), the CI will inform the RS in writing of the decision not to charge. Typical reasons for this decision may include:

• The explanation and/or the evidence the RS provided the CI persuaded the Reporting Party (RP) and/or CI that no violation occurred.
• There is insufficient obtainable or available evidence to warrant further investigation.
• In cases involving an alleged Fundamental Standard violation, the concern does not rise to the level of misconduct contemplated by the Charter in terms of past policy and practice.

Formal Charge

If the CI determines there is sufficient evidence to warrant a charge, the RS will receive a formal letter outlining the alleged violation and the evidence on which the CI based the determination. The RS can either accept responsibility or contest the charge(s). If the RS accepts responsibility, sanctions will be assigned and the case will be closed. 

If the RS contests the charges, they will be asked to meet with the CI and the CA (at least once jointly for a pre-hearing session) to prepare for the hearing.